Editor:
As I view editorial cartoons, I understand the nature of exaggeration and bias used to make points. I enjoy editorial cartoons greatly, even if they oppose my personal beliefs. However, I must admit that I was surprised because of the complete lack of truth in The Chronicle’s Nov. 5 editorial cartoon. It showed Brigham Young promoting many things, but obviously ignoring education. Understanding Utah history as I do, I saw this as an affront to the greatness of Brigham Young as a supporter of education from the very beginning, including the founding of the U as the University of Deseret in 1850.
In doing a little quick research recommended to anyone who wishes to make this kind of statement, I found a publication made by one of our professors here at the U, Frederick Buchanan (no relation to me), called “Education among the Mormons : Brigham Young and the schools of Utah”
Dr. Buchanan states:
“During the early years in Utah, one can find documentary evidence which indicate that basic schooling was talked about and promoted by Brigham Young in his capacity as Territorial Governor and as a spiritual leader of the Mormon people.”
Schools were first set up along the lines of the local wards under the direction of the local bishops, but by the 1860s, they were set up on a county basis, with communities permitted to collect taxes to assist with teacher salaries and books.
If you wish to criticize the current political leaders as to their support (or lack thereof) of education in Utah, please do so. If you wish to cast that same criticism on Brigham Young in pioneer times, please get your facts straight.
Joseph F. Buchanan
Marriott Library