| W. W. Phelps | |
|---|---|
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| Personal details | |
| Born | William Wines Phelps February 17, 1792 Hanover Township, New Jersey, US |
| Died | March 17, 1872 (aged 80) Salt Lake City, Utah Territory |
| Resting place | Salt Lake City Cemetery 40°46′37″N 111°51′29″W / 40.777°N 111.858°W |
| Occupation | Church printer |
| Title | Scribe to Joseph Smith, composer of numerous LDS hymns |
| Spouse(s) | Stella Waterman |
| Parents | Enon Phelps Mehitable Goldsmith |
William Wines Phelps (February 17, 1792 – March 7, 1872) was an early leader of the Latter Day Saint movement. He printed the first edition of the Book of Commandments that became a standard work of the church and wrote numerous hymns, some of which are included in the current version of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' (LDS Church) hymnal. He was at times both close to and at odds with church leadership. He testified against Joseph Smith, providing evidence that helped persuade authorities to arrest Smith. He was excommunicated three times and rejoined the church each time. He was a ghostwriter for Smith. Phelps was called by Smith to serve as assistant president of the church in Missouri[1] and as a member of the Council of Fifty. After Smith's death, Phelps supported Brigham Young, who was the church's new president.
- ^ The position of "assistant president of the church in Missouri" was analogous to a modern stake or area president, but with more intrinsic authority and autonomy. However, it was not the same as Assistant President of the Church, who was a member of the First Presidency.