Religious leader (1801–1877) who became leader of the Mormon Church in 1844 after its founder, Joseph Smith, was shot and killed by a mob of angry opponents. A charismatic and powerful leader, Young led the mass migration of Mormons to the Great Salt Lake Valley in Utah, establishing the church’s stronghold in that state. By the time of Young’s death, the Mormon population in Utah had reached 140,000, and the leader’s own legacy included 27 wives and 56 children. In December 2006, a panel of scholars and historians assembled by Atlantic magazine included Young in the roster of the 100 Most Influential Americans of All Time. Business check, 8 x 3.25, filled out in another hand and signed by Young, payable to the Treasurer of the Utah Southern Railroad Company for $1,000, July 9, 1872. In very good to fine condition, with light vertical creases (one to first name), light staining touching last few letters of signature, and mild scattered light toning and soiling. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
