Susa Young Gates

Susa Gates (née Young, formerly Dunford; March 18, 1856 – May 27, 1933) was an American writer, periodical editor, president of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers, and women's rights advocate. She was a daughter of LDS Church president Brigham Young. Throughout her life, Gates wrote many articles, poems, short stories, novels, and other literary works. According to R. Paul Cracroft's thesis, Gates wrote more than other Mormon writers. Gates was also actively involved in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) where, among other things, she wrote the lesson manuals, was a member of the Relief Society general board, lead genealogical efforts, and served as a missionary.

Early life

Gates was born in Salt Lake City, Utah Territory, to Lucy Bigelow, Brigham Young's twenty-second wife. Gates was named Susanna, but went by Susa for most of her life. She was Brigham's forty-second child and the second child to be born to Lucy Bigelow and Brigham Young. Gates grew up in the Lion House. Her home life was very structured because of the large size of her father's family. Her days consisted of scheduled meals, prayers, schooling, family devotionals, and sleep time. According to Gates, her childhood was very happy and she enjoyed growing up in the Young family. However, Gates also recorded some memories of family difficulties. While Gates reported that she had a close relationship with some of her father's wives, she did not enjoy spending time with all of them. She also rejected any speculation that there was fighting amongst Brigham's wives, while other family members claimed there was tension.