SECRETARY OF THE RELIEF SOCIETIES OF THE SALT LAKE STAKE OF ZION.

Mrs. Howard furnishes a very brief sketch for one whose life and labors among the people and faith of her adoption, have been so extended, important and interesting, to all who have ever come within the influence of her noble, generous spirit; who have received the stimulus to failing spirits and energy which emanated from her animated face, so good and motherly, her voice so cheerful and sympathetic, and her every movement like an inspiration of strength, happiness and life.

She writes she was "descended from Scotch parentage on her father's side, Irish on her mother's, Websters and Wards. Was born on July 12th, 1823, at Carlow, Carlow County, Ireland." Was the first child of her parents and says she "had a glorious childhood and girlhood," which can be easily believed, judging by her ever buoyant spirits. She was "married to William Howard, the eldest son of Stott and Catherine Howard, June 9th, 1841. Heard the Gospel in 1851, and came to America in 1853, with husband, two sons, four daughters, two hired girls and two hired men." They arrived in Utah, September, 1853.

At the organizations of the Relief Society in 1867-68, she was appointed Secretary of the Big Cottonwood Ward, which office she filled until she accompanied her husband to England in 1868, returned in 1869 and resumed the same office. During their mission in England, Mrs. Howard was often called upon to explain the principles of our doctrines and answer many questions regarding our people, etc. Divines and others found Mrs. Howard quite ready and able to meet and answer them on every point. In fact her part of the mission has often been referred to as something exceptionally creditable and important. It was at a time, too, when woman had scarcely been heard to speak upon our faith, outside the home circle.

About 1871, when Mrs. M. A. Smoot removed to Provo, Mrs. Howard was chosen Counselor to Mrs. M. I. Horne in the General Retrenchment Association, which position she still holds. When the Relief Societies were organized into Stakes, Mrs. Howard was appointed Secretary of the Salt Lake Stake of Zion, which position she holds at the present time. Mrs. Howard has traveled much throughout our Territory in company with other sisters, visiting the different societies and associations in a missionary capacity, giving instructions and infusing cheerfulness and energy by her whole-souled and genial manner. There is something wonderfully earnest and sincere in all she says and does, and it has a most convincing effect upon the hearers who delight to welcome her visits, who is herself a most delightful entertainer and hostess at her own beautiful country home a few miles ride out from the city.

Mrs. Howard is the mother of ten children, eight living; and thirty-seven grand-children.