Joseph Smith’s Family

A family of faith

Joseph Smith and his family working together on their farm.

Joseph Smith was born on December 23, 1805, in the northeastern United States. His father was also named Joseph. His mother’s name was Lucy. He had many brothers and sisters. Joseph’s family were farmers. They believed in God and loved each other.

Joseph Smith—History 1:3–4

Joseph Smith as a young boy. His left leg is wrapped in a bandage. His mother is worried about him.

When Joseph was a little boy, he had a sickness that caused a problem in his leg. It hurt him a lot. Joseph’s family tried to help him feel better, but his leg still hurt very much. Doctors tried to make his leg better, but they couldn’t.

Saints, 1:7

Joseph Smith in bed. His brother kneels at the side of the bed. His mother talks with his doctor in the background.

The doctors said they needed to cut off Joseph’s leg to save his life. But his mother wouldn’t let them. She asked if there was any other way to help Joseph. The doctors decided to cut out part of the bone in his leg instead. Joseph knew this would hurt, but he had faith that God would help him.

Saints, 1:7

Joseph Smith’s doctor offers him alcohol for his leg surgery. Joseph refuses. His father holds him.

The doctors wanted to give Joseph alcohol to drink to numb the pain. But Joseph said no. He just wanted his father to hold him.

Saints, 1:7

Joseph Smith’s mother leaves the bedroom while the doctor gets ready to operate.

Joseph asked his mother to go outside. He didn’t want her to see him in so much pain while the doctors cut into his leg.

A doctor performing surgery on Joseph Smith’s leg. His father holds him to offer support.

Joseph’s father held him while the doctors cut out the bad parts of the bone in his leg. This hurt very much, but God helped Joseph to be brave. After a few years, Joseph’s leg got better, but it still hurt to walk.

Saints, 1:6–7

Joseph Smith and his family in New York. They work at tapping maple trees.

When Joseph was older, his family moved to the state of New York. Joseph’s family was poor. They worked hard to have enough food for their family. Joseph was a good boy. He was happy and liked to laugh and have fun.

Saints, 1:5–9

Joseph Smith’s family sitting peacefully together at the dinner table.

Joseph’s family loved Jesus Christ. They prayed and read the Bible together. But Joseph’s parents weren’t sure what church they should belong to. One night, Joseph’s mother, Lucy, prayed and told God she wanted to find the true Church of Jesus Christ. God answered her prayer and promised she would.

Saints, 1:10–11