Mary Lenora Roberts Kimball
Below is a timeline highlighting key moments of Lenora’s life.
Born on April 27, 1881, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Mary Lenora Roberts Kimball led a life characterized by devotion and fortitude. Married to Crozier Kimball at a young age, she navigated the complexities of early 20th-century America, raising a family through times of prosperity and hardship. Her story is a testament to her unwavering faith and her deep commitment to her family and community. Her legacy continues to inspire generations, serving as a beacon of strength and love.
Birth & Early Years
Mary was born into the pioneering Roberts family, instilling in her a spirit of resilience and community from a young age. Her childhood in Salt Lake City was filled with lessons of survival and compassion, which shaped her into a nurturing and resourceful individual.
LIFE IN THE EARLY 19th CENTURY
ESTABLISHMENT OF SEMINARIES (1912)
The church established its first seminary in 1912 next to Granite High School in Salt Lake City to provide religious education to students.
WELFARE PROGRAM INITIATION (1936)
The Church’s welfare program in 1936 was established to help members affected by the Great Depression, emphasizing self-reliance and community support.
EXPANSION OF THE MISSIONARY PROGRAM (Early 20th Century)
The early 20th century saw significant expansion of the LDS missionary program, spreading its teachings globally.
REVELATION ON THE PRIESTHOOD (1978)
The early 20th century saw significant expansion of the LDS missionary program, spreading its teachings globally.
TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION (Early 20th Century)
The early 20th century saw the construction of several iconic LDS temples, further establishing the church's presence worldwide.
RURAL vs. URBAN LIFE DISPARITIES
The early 20th century highlighted significant disparities between rural and urban life, including access to healthcare, education, and technology.
THE RISE OF THE AUTOMOBILE
The Ford Model T, introduced in 1908, revolutionized transportation and American society, making cars affordable and altering the landscape of cities and towns.
THE SPREAD OF ELECTRICITY (1920s)
The 1920s saw widespread adoption of electricity in urban areas, drastically changing daily life and household dynamics.
RADIO ENTERTAINMENT (1920s - 1930s)
Before television, radio was the central medium for entertainment and news, bringing families together for broadcasts.
WORLD WAR I (1914-1918)
World War I reshaped global politics and society, introducing new warfare technologies and redrawing national boundaries.
PENICILLIN DISCOVERED (1928)
World War I reshaped global politics and society, introducing new warfare technologies and redrawing national boundaries.
WOMEN GAIN THE RIGHT TO VOTE
The ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920 granted American women the right to vote, a monumental victory in the women's suffrage movement.
As you read the biography of Mary Lenora Roberts Kimball, consider the rich tapestry of historical and cultural contexts that shaped her experiences. From the pioneering days of the early 20th century, through the transformative impacts of the automobile and the trials of the Great Depression, to the significant social shifts like women's suffrage and the advent of penicillin, Mary's life was intertwined with some of the most pivotal moments in American history.
Reflect on how these global events and the everyday realities of the era, such as the prominence of radio as the centerpiece of entertainment and the challenges posed by Prohibition, influenced not only Mary's personal and family life but also her enduring legacy in her community and church. Her story offers a unique lens through which to view these historical milestones, providing a deeper understanding of the resilience and adaptability required during times of profound change.
Marriage to Crozier Kimball
At the age of 20, Mary married Crozier Kimball, embarking on a journey of companionship and mutual growth. Together, they faced life's challenges, raising a family and moving across states to seek better opportunities and health.
Early Family
The gospel was not merely a spiritual guide but a member of the family, shaping their values, celebrations, and even daily routines, ensuring that each child grew up with a firm understanding of their faith’s teachings and the importance of service and compassion in their interactions.
Mary and Crozier, through their shared commitment to faith and family, nurtured a bustling household that was both a sanctuary of love and a foundation of gospel principles.
Their family, growing to include ten children between 1901 and 1926, thrived under traditions that deeply intertwined with their religious convictions.
Weekly family home evenings were a cherished tradition, where lessons on the scriptures were discussed and hymns sung, reinforcing the teachings of the Church and its central role in their lives. Each season brought its own rituals, from harvest gatherings to spirited preparations for General Conference, embedding a rhythm of worship and community involvement in their children's lives.
Mary and Crozier had 10 children together. Here is a list of their children based on the provided manuscripts:
Jane Roberts Kimball - Born January 24, 1901, in Bedford, Lincoln County, Wyoming.
Edwin Roberts Kimball - Born October 25, 1903, in Logan, Cache County, Utah.
Griffith Roberts Kimball - Born August 28, 1905, in St. David, Cochise County, Arizona.
Lenora Roberts Kimball - Born April 27, 1908, in St. David, Cochise County, Arizona.
Crozier Rodney Kimball - Born February 13, 1910, in St. David, Cochise County, Arizona.
Caroline Roberts Kimball - Born January 5, 1912, in St. David, Cochise County, Arizona.
Cleo Berniece Kimball - Born December 14, 1913, in Tropic, Garfield County, Utah.
Gwen Roberts Kimball - Born December 31, 1915, in Widstoe, Garfield County, Utah.
Vaughn Roberts Kimball - Born January 7, 1922, in Draper, Salt Lake County, Utah.
Reid Roberts Kimball - Born June 29, 1926, in Murray, Salt Lake County, Utah.
Navigating the Great Depression (1930s)
One poignant aspect of how Mary navigated the Great Depression involves her approach to household management and thrift. Her biography highlights that Mary was particularly adept at stretching resources to ensure her family not only survived but also maintained a sense of normalcy and well-being. She was known for her practical skills, such as sewing and gardening, which became crucial during these tough economic times.
Mary's role in her community during the Great Depression underscored her capacity for leadership and support. She was involved in organizing community events and sharing resources, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual support among neighbors.
This communal approach helped her family and others to cope with the economic strain.
During the Great Depression, Mary Lenora Roberts Kimball and her family, like many others, faced significant economic hardships. Mary managed these challenges with resourcefulness and resilience, reflecting her ability to maintain stability and hope within her household.
Mary's garden was an essential resource for the family. She used her knowledge of gardening to grow a variety of vegetables, which helped feed her family when cash was scarce. This not only provided a direct source of food but also served as an educational tool for her children, teaching them valuable skills in self-sufficiency.
Additionally, Mary's thrift extended to household management. She was known for never wasting anything that could be reused or repurposed, from scraps of fabric to leftover food.
Her ability to manage household finances shrewdly ensured that the family always had enough essentials, despite the overall scarcity.
Mary’s proactive approach to overcoming the challenges of the Great Depression highlights her strength and ingenuity as she guided her family through one of the most difficult times in American history.
The 1930s brought the Great Depression, testing Mary's resourcefulness and thriftiness. Despite economic hardships, her home remained a sanctuary of warmth and sufficiency, where she used her skills to nurture and provide for her family and assist neighbors.
A Woman of Strength & Character
Mary Lenora Roberts Kimball was a woman whose strength & character was marked by resilience, compassion, and a deep sense of duty. Here are ten inspiring facts drawn from her life story:
Resilience in Adversity: During the Great Depression, Mary demonstrated exceptional resilience, managing her household with limited resources. She became adept at using whatever was available, ensuring her family not only survived but maintained a sense of normalcy and security.
Leadership in the Community: Mary was a pillar in her community, often organizing events and support groups. Her ability to lead by example, particularly in times of hardship, provided a stabilizing influence that many relied upon.
Devotion to Family: Above all, Mary was dedicated to her family. She raised her children with love and strict values, teaching them the importance of hard work, faith, and compassion, which they carried into their own adult lives.
Spiritual Strength: Her unwavering faith was central to her life. Mary was a devout member of her church, using her faith to guide her through life's challenges and to teach her children the importance of spiritual commitment.
Generosity and Kindness: Even when resources were scarce, Mary was known for her generosity. She frequently shared what little she had with neighbors in need, embodying the principle of kindness without expectation of return.
Commitment to Education: Understanding the value of education, Mary ensured all her children attended school. She believed education was crucial not just for personal development but as a means to contribute effectively to society.
Cultural Anchorage: Mary was deeply rooted in her cultural and religious traditions, which she celebrated and passed on to her children. Her home was a hub for holiday gatherings, religious ceremonies, and family milestones, all steeped in tradition.
Advocacy for the Underprivileged: Mary often advocated for the less fortunate in her community, whether helping to organize charity drives or speaking on behalf of those without a voice. Her empathy drove her to act, making her a respected and beloved figure.
Problem-Solving Skills: Faced with any challenge, Mary had a unique ability to find practical solutions quickly. Whether it was fixing a broken household item or resolving a community dispute, she handled problems with a calm and pragmatic approach.
Legacy of Love: The most enduring aspect of Mary's character was her capacity to love unconditionally. This love was not confined to her family but extended to her friends, neighbors, and community members. It left a lasting impact, ensuring that her legacy of love and service continued through generations.
A Legacy of Faith
Mary Roberts Kimball's story within our family history is a testament to resilience, grace, and the power of unwavering faith. Her journey, marked by both joy and adversity, showcases the profound impact one individual can have on her family and community. Through this video, we honor Mary Roberts Kimball's legacy, exploring her life's milestones, the challenges she overcame, and the deep love she held for her family. Her narrative is interwoven with personal accounts and historical context, providing a rich portrait of a woman whose strength, kindness, and spirit continue to inspire those who carry on her lineage.
Enjoy this short historical vignette from 2002.
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Furthering the Faith
Overcoming Adversity with Grace
Mary faced the hardships of the Great Depression with unyielding resilience, ensuring her family never lacked the essentials despite the economic turmoil surrounding them.
How can we draw inspiration from Mary's resilience in facing our current economic and personal challenges?
What strategies from Mary's experience can be applied today to help us maintain hope and stability in tough times?
Deep Faith in Action
Despite numerous relocations and health challenges within her family, Mary's unwavering faith was a cornerstone of her life, providing strength and guidance.
How does Mary's example of steadfast faith influence our approach to unexpected changes or challenges in life?
What can we learn from her ability to maintain spiritual strength and continuity despite external instabilities?
Community and Service
Known for her generosity, Mary often extended her limited resources to help neighbors and community members, reinforcing the value of service in her faith.
In what ways can we incorporate Mary's spirit of service into our interactions within our own communities?
How does helping others strengthen personal faith and community bonds?
Legacy of Love and Leadership
As a matriarch, Mary instilled values of hard work, faith, and compassion in her children, leaving a legacy that transcends generations.
What qualities do we wish to pass on to future generations, and how can we actively work on these?
How does our understanding of legacy influence the way we live our lives today?
The Role of Women in Spiritual and Family Life
Mary navigated her role with a balance of strength and tenderness, contributing profoundly to the spiritual life of her family and community.
How can we better support the women in our lives in their roles as spiritual and family leaders?
What lessons can we learn from Mary's approach to leadership and caregiving?
Nurturing Through Faith
Mary's life was a testament to nurturing through faith, turning her home into a sanctuary where principles of love, faith, and resilience were taught.
How does faith play a role in nurturing within our families?
What are effective ways to create a home environment that reflects our deepest beliefs and values?
Handling Loss with Faith
Faced with personal losses and the challenges of her husband’s health issues, Mary's faith provided her with solace and strength.
How can personal faith assist in coping with significant losses or health challenges?
What can be learned from Mary's example of turning to faith in times of personal crisis?
Faith and Community Building
Mary's active involvement in her church helped strengthen her community’s cohesion and spiritual health.
How can we use our personal faith to positively impact our local communities?
What are some practical steps we can take to build stronger community ties through shared beliefs and activities?
The Impact of Maternal Influence
Mary’s role as a mother shaped the moral and spiritual direction of her family, highlighting the profound influence mothers have.
How do the lessons and values imparted by maternal figures shape individuals and their paths?
In what ways can we honor and continue the positive influences of maternal figures in our lives?
Perseverance in Faith and Life
Throughout her life, Mary demonstrated remarkable perseverance, navigating life's ups and downs with faith as her guide.
What challenges in our lives require us to persevere, and how can faith guide us through them?
How can Mary's story inspire us to persist in our goals despite obstacles?