Alexander Beckstead - I203 - Individual Information

^{Alexander Beckstead}

Alexander Beckstead ‎(I203)‎

Surname: Beckstead
Given Names: Alexander

Gender: Male Male

Birth: 16 March 1802

31 , Schoharie, New York, USA
Death: 20 February 1870 ‎(Age 67)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

Personal Facts and Details

Events of close relatives

Birth

16 March 1802

31 , Schoharie, New York, USA

Source: BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead

Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963
Citation Details: 41-44
Text: Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acr es of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon mission aries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons end uring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigha m Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Intro duction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Al exander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeti ng place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan . The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in n eed. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery. DESCENDANTS OF JOHN BECKSTEAD
Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acr es of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon mission aries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons end uring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that was so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continuedon, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Introd uction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where there was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Alex ander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as t hey needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeting place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan. The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in n eed. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery.

Marriage

Keziah Albine Petty - 18 November 1854 ‎(Age 52)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

Death

20 February 1870 ‎(Age 67)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

Source: BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead

Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963

Source: BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead

Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963
Citation Details: 41-44
Text: Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acr es of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon mission aries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons end uring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigha m Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Intro duction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Al exander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeti ng place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan . The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in n eed. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery. DESCENDANTS OF JOHN BECKSTEAD Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New Y ork, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acres of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm un til he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon missionaries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons enduring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in Septemb er 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, Missouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, theymoved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo , Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and some at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children.After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon the shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies mov ed to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beck stead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they wer e moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brother of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Introduction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothin g but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Alexander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, a nd some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeting place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erecte d the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan. The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in need. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery.

Alexander Beckstead obituary

Burial

28 February 1870 ‎(8 days after death)‎ West Jordan Cemetery, West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

Source: BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead

Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963

Source: BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead

Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963
Citation Details: 41-44
Text: Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoha rie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 ac res of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon missio naries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons en duringmany personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shouldersof Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Intro duction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Al exander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeti ng place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan . The building was made ofslabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son JohnAlma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in ne ed. He passed away at his homein West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery. DESCENDANTS OF JOHN BECKSTEAD Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New Yor k, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acres of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm unti l he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon missionaries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted t he Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons enduring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, Missouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, theymoved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located whereverthey could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and some at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children.After the death o f Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon the shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckst ead boys joined this group, thus reducing thehelp that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were m oving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brother of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Introduction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known asthe River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Alexander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick a nd shovel, and mostly by hand, built the BecksteadDitch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the riverbottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeting place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the fi rst Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan. The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to befinished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard tim es when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead ofselling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, are a - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elderin the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in need. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery.

Alexander Beckstead's grave

Last Change

18 October 2010 - 15:03:20 - by: mbpetey

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Parents Family (F50)
Father	Francis Beckstead Sr. 1773 - 1841
Mother	Margaret ‎(Margaritta)‎ Barkley or Berkley 1770 - 1811
Sister	Helena Beckstead 1797 - 1866
Brother	Jacob L. Beckstead 1799 - 1892
	Alexander Beckstead 1802 - 1870
Sister	Nellie Beckstead 1804 - 1886
Brother	Mathew Beckstead 1805 - 1853
Sister	Maria Beckstead 1806 -
Brother	Moses Beckstead 1807 - 1883
Sister	Hannah Beckstead 1808 -
Brother	Francis Beckstead Jr. 1810 - 1848
Brother	Henry Beckstead 1812 - 1873
Brother	Matthew Beckstead 1814 -
Sister	Elizabeth "Betsy" Beckstead 1816 - 1852

Immediate Family (F14)
Wife	Keziah Albine Petty 1835 - 1907
Son	Hyrum Beckstead 1855 - 1937
Son	Moses William Beckstead 1857 - 1916
Son	Aaron Beckstead 1858 - 1924
Daughter	Fannie Keziah Beckstead 1859 - 1936
Son	Robert Beckstead 1861 - 1921
Daughter	Margarett Albine Beckstead 1862 - 1944
Daughter	Martha Ann Beckstead 1864 - 1930
Son	Francis Albert Beckstead 1866 - 1952
Son	Ira Beckstead 1867 - 1942
Son	Alexander Beckstead 1870 - 1942

Notes

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Note

Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead Sr. and Margaret
Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New York on the 16th of March,
1802. He was the sixth of 21 children. His mother died after her 11th child
was born, and his father remarried. There were 10 children from the second
marriage to Catherine Lang.
When Alexander was very young, his family moved to Williamsburg,
Canada, where his father secured 200 acres of land under a land grant. It is
assumed therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until
he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince, at which time he farmed for
himself. He and Catherine had 15 children.
During the period of 1837-38 three Mormon missionaries visited the
homes of Alexander, his father, Francis Sr., and others of the family. Most
of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join
the Saints who were then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and
wagons, enduring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt,
Caldwell County, Missouri the last week in September 1838. ‎(See history of
Francis.)‎ At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs,
and shortly thereafter, our families escaped to Far West, Missouri, where they
spent the winter. The following spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to
the area near Nauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find
suitable places to make a home--some at Lima, some at Carthage, and some
at Warsaw. All of these places are near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander and
Catherine's family consisted of nine children.
When Francis died, Alexander and his brother, Francis Jr., were left to
oversee the care of the families, and later, their journey to the Salt Lake
Valley.
History tells us that the latter part of 1845 and the beginning of 1846,
was a time of preparation of the Saints for the exodus from Nauvoo. Even the
children were involved, parching corn and taking it to the mill to be ground.
Since several Beckstead children were born in the Nauvoo area at this time,
we can assume our people were involved in these preparations.
The exodus from Nauvoo began in February 1846. Some crossed the
Mississippi by watercraft, while others crossed when the river was frozen. We
can only imagine the sadness in their hearts as they left this beautiful city and
their homes.
The exact date our ancestors arrived in the area of Council Bluffs,
Pottawattamie County, Iowa, a distance of about 400 miles from Nauvoo, is
not known. However, the main body of the Saints reached there by the
middle of June 1846. Almost immediately upon their arrival, the United
States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500
volunteers for the Mormon Battalion to fight in the Mexican War. Three of
the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that was needed
to look after the families.
Alexander was not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation
for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were
leaving, and had gone only a short distance, Francis Jr. was stricken with
cholera, and died after a few hours of illness. He was buried on the banks of
the Missouri River. This was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the
families. Alexander now had the full responsibility for the movement of the
families to the Salt Lake Valley. He had a large family of young children to
look after, as well as helping his younger brothers and sisters with their
families.
Tragedy and sadness continued with the families as they journeyed
westward. As they neared Wood River, Nebraska, Alexander's sister, Sarah
Louise Beckstead Forbush, was stricken with cholera and died almost
immediately, leaving four little children. The families were determined in their
efforts, however, and finally arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, September 15,
1849. They settled near relatives or close friends in the Cottonwood area, east
of Murray, helping one another provide food for the families.
In the spring of 1850 Alexander moved to the west side of the Jordan
River. He purchased 160 acres of land which extended from where the D&RG
Railroad is now located, southward along the river to Riverton. A number of
the groups located along the river because it was their only source of water.
They were obliged to live in dugouts for a short time, then houses of adobe
until they could haul timber from the mountains to build log houses. They
dug wells for drinking water, and immediately provided a meeting house for
worship, and a school house, very meager but adequate. Later they built the
"Beckstead Ditch" and were able to get water from the river onto their lands.
As they prospered, they built better houses. Sometime before 1853, Alexander
erected the first blacksmith shop in that area.
The following year, Alexander entered into plural marriage. Keziah
Albine Petty, age 19, became his second wife on 18 November 1854. She
became the mother of 10 children, and was 72 when she died. Clarissa Ann
Gilson was 35 when she married Alexander on 3 February 1856. She had
seven children. Clarissa died at age 73. Alexander was thus the father of 32
children, and his large posterity can now be found in many areas of the LDS
church, honoring their great heritage.
During the period 1861 to 1863 Alexander assisted materially in
sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement
West. During the hard times when flour cost $25 a sack, Alexander, instead
of selling his flour, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one
occasion he sent his son John with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people
in the St. George, Utah area--without cost to them.
Alexander was a faithful Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life,
and a friend to everyone in need. He passed away at his home in West Jordan,
25 February 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery.

Source: Descendants of John Beckstead by Lee Allen Beckstead -1963

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Birth	BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963 Citation Details: 41-44 Text: Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acr es of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon mission aries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons end uring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigha m Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Intro duction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Al exander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeti ng place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan . The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in n eed. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery. DESCENDANTS OF JOHN BECKSTEAD Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acr es of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon mission aries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons end uring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that was so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continuedon, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Introd uction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where there was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Alex ander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as t hey needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeting place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan. The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in n eed. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery.
Death	BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963
Death	BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963 Citation Details: 41-44 Text: Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acr es of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon mission aries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons end uring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigha m Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Intro duction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Al exander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeti ng place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan . The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in n eed. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery. DESCENDANTS OF JOHN BECKSTEAD Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New Y ork, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acres of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm un til he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon missionaries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons enduring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in Septemb er 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, Missouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, theymoved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo , Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and some at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children.After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon the shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies mov ed to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beck stead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they wer e moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brother of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Introduction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothin g but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Alexander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, a nd some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeting place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erecte d the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan. The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in need. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery.
Burial	BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963
Burial	BOOK: Descendants of John Beckstead Publication: Published by the Beckstead Family Organization in 1963 Citation Details: 41-44 Text: Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoha rie County, New York, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 ac res of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm until he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon missio naries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted the Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons en duringmany personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, M issouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, they moved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located wherever they could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and som e at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children. After the death of Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon th e shouldersof Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckstead boys joined this group, thus reducing the help that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were moving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brothe r of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September 1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Intro duction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known as the River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Al exander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick and shovel, and mostly by hand, built the Beckstead Ditch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the river bottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeti ng place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the first Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan . The building was made ofslabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to be finished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard times when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead of selling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son JohnAlma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, area - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elder in the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in ne ed. He passed away at his homein West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery. DESCENDANTS OF JOHN BECKSTEAD Alexander Beckstead, son of Francis Beckstead, Sr., and Maragaret Barkley, was born in Schoharie County, New Yor k, 16 Mar 1802. When he was about five years old his father and family moved to Williamsburg, Canada, where his father secured 200 acres of land, under a Land Grant. It is assumed, therefore, that Alexander worked with his father on the farm unti l he was married in 1823 to Catherine Lince/Lenss, at which time he farmed for himself. During the period 1837-38 three Mormon missionaries visited the homes of Alexander, his father Francis, Sr., and others of the family. Most of them accepted t he Gospel, sold their land, and made preparations to join the Saints then located in Missouri. They traveled by ox-team and wagons enduring many personal hardships, and finally reached DeWitt, Caldwell County, Missouri, the last week in September 1838. At that time the Saints were being persecuted severely by the mobs, and after a short time our familyoes escaped to Far West, Missouri, where they spent the winter. The next spring, 1839, theymoved with the Saints to the area near Vauvoo, Illinois. Our families located whereverthey could find suitable palces to make a home - some were at Lima, some at Carthage, and some at Warsaw, Illinois, all near Nauvoo. By this time Alexander's family consisted of 9 children.After the death o f Francis, Sr., in 1841, the great responsibility of looking after his family, and the others of his father's family, rested upon the shoulders of Alexander. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo in 1846, Alexander and the other familiies moved to the area of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Almost immediately upuon their arrival the United States Government requested President Brigham Young to furnish 500 volunteers for the Mormon Batallion to fight in the War against Mexico. Three of the Beckst ead boys joined this group, thus reducing thehelp that ws so much needed to look after the families. Alexander wsa not discouraged, however, and commenced preparation for movement of the families to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Just as they were m oving, and had gone only a short distance, tragedy struck again; this time in the death of Francis Beckstead, Jr., a younger brother of Alexander, which was a great shock and a tremendous loss to the families. However, Alexander continued on, and most of them reach the Utah Valley in September1849. For more detailed information of the history of our ancestors read the Introduction history section. Alexander Beckstead settled in Weest Jordan, Utah, where theyre was practically nothing but sagebrush. They all located on what was known asthe River bottoms, of the Jordan River, which was their only source of water. Alexander and his family were reported to be the first to get water on the land from the River. They worked with pick a nd shovel, and mostly by hand, built the BecksteadDitch, which permitted them to take the water from the Jordan River for use as they needed it. They had to dig wells for drinking water, and at first most of their homes were adobe huts, and some were merely holes dug into the bank along the riverbottoms. Then as rapidly as possible better homes were built, a Church meeting place was provided, and they had a place for school children, very meager of course. Later Alexander erected the fi rst Blacksmith shop in that area. This shop, built before 1853, was west and south of the Old Rock Meeting house, in West Jordan. The building was made of slabs and rough lumber with a roof of slabs. It did not contain a bench to sit on. The men who came to visit or were waiting for thier work to befinished, just stood around. In 1861 to 1863 Alexander Beckstead assisted materially in sending outfits back to the Missouri River to help the Saints in the movement West. During the hard tim es when flour cost $25.00 a sack, Alexander, instead ofselling his floud, divided it among the poor. It is reported that on one occasion he sent his son John Alma Beckstead with 5000 pounds of flour to the poor people in the St. George, Utah, are a - without cost to them. Alexander was a veteran Elderin the LDS Church during his entire life, and a friend to everyone in need. He passed away at his home in West Jordan, 25 Feb 1870, and was buried in the South Jordan Cemetery.

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Multimedia Object	Alexander Beckstead ‎(M121)‎ Type: Photo
Multimedia Object	Alexander Beckstead ‎(M120)‎ Type: Photo
Multimedia Object	Alexander Beckstead's grave ‎(M124)‎ Type: Tombstone
Multimedia Object	Alexander Beckstead obituary ‎(M123)‎ Type: Newspaper
Multimedia Object	Keziah A. Petty Beckstead & children abt 1900 ‎(M129)‎ Type: Photo Keziah Albine Petty

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Family with Parents

Father

Francis Beckstead Sr.

‎(I215)‎

Birth 20 June 1773

31 Albany, Albany, New York, USA
Death 1841 ‎(Age 67)‎ Lima, Adams, Illinois, USA

-3 years

Mother

Margaret ‎(Margaritta)‎ Barkley or Berkley

‎(I216)‎

Birth 26 October 1770

22 of Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada
Death 1811 ‎(Age 40)‎

Marriage: 1790 -- Albany, Schoharie, New York, USA

8 years

Sister

Helena Beckstead

‎(I217)‎

Birth 28 December 1797

27 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada
Death 21 March 1866 ‎(Age 68)‎ Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

17 months

Brother

Jacob L. Beckstead

‎(I218)‎

Birth 8 June 1799

28 Albany, Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 1892 ‎(Age 92)‎ , , Canada

3 years

Alexander Beckstead

‎(I203)‎

Birth 16 March 1802

31 , Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 20 February 1870 ‎(Age 67)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

2 years

Sister

Nellie Beckstead

‎(I219)‎

Birth 2 July 1804

33 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada or, Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 1886 ‎(Age 81)‎

7 months

Brother

Mathew Beckstead

‎(I226)‎

Birth 14 February 1805

34 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada or, Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 16 October 1853 ‎(Age 48)‎ Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

11 months

Sister

Maria Beckstead

‎(I220)‎

Birth 1806

35 of Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

2 years

Brother

Moses Beckstead

‎(I221)‎

Birth 8 October 1807

36 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada or, Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 22 July 1883 ‎(Age 75)‎ Williamsburg, Ontario, Canada

3 months

Sister

Hannah Beckstead

‎(I222)‎

Birth 1808

37 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario or, Schoharie, New York, USA

3 years

Brother

Francis Beckstead Jr.

‎(I223)‎

Birth 4 July 1810

39 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada
Death 1848 ‎(Age 37)‎ Missouri River, Pottawattamie, Iowa, USA

18 months

#10

Brother

Henry Beckstead

‎(I224)‎

Birth 1812

41 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario or, Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 1873 ‎(Age 61)‎ , , Canada

2 years

#11

Brother

Matthew Beckstead

‎(I227)‎

Birth about 1814

43 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

2 years

#12

Sister

Elizabeth "Betsy" Beckstead

‎(I225)‎

Birth 1816

45 Williamsburg, Dundas, Ontario or, Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 1852 ‎(Age 36)‎

Family with Keziah Albine Petty

Alexander Beckstead

‎(I203)‎

Birth 16 March 1802

31 , Schoharie, New York, USA
Death 20 February 1870 ‎(Age 67)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

33 years

Wife

Keziah Albine Petty

‎(I204)‎

Birth 8 July 1835

29 Nashville, Davidson, Tennessee, USA
Death 23 April 1907 ‎(Age 71)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

Marriage: 18 November 1854 -- West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

11 months

Son

Hyrum Beckstead

‎(I68)‎

Birth 27 October 1855

20 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 24 April 1937 ‎(Age 81)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

19 months

Son

Moses William Beckstead

‎(I76)‎

Birth 2 June 1857

21 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 24 November 1916 ‎(Age 59)‎ Spanish Fork, Utah, Utah, USA

11 months

Son

Aaron Beckstead

‎(I69)‎

Birth 12 May 1858

22 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 21 January 1924 ‎(Age 65)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

19 months

Daughter

Fannie Keziah Beckstead

‎(I32)‎

Birth 5 December 1859

24 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 28 April 1936 ‎(Age 76)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

15 months

Son

Robert Beckstead

‎(I70)‎

Birth 7 March 1861

25 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 26 May 1921 ‎(Age 60)‎ South Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

15 months

Daughter

Margarett Albine Beckstead

‎(I71)‎

Birth 26 May 1862

26 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 8 September 1944 ‎(Age 82)‎ West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

20 months

Daughter

Martha Ann Beckstead

‎(I72)‎

Birth 16 January 1864

28 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 29 June 1930 ‎(Age 66)‎ Grace, Caribou, Idaho, USA

2 years

Son

Francis Albert Beckstead

‎(I73)‎

Birth 15 January 1866

30 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 19 September 1952 ‎(Age 86)‎ Midvale, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

2 years

Son

Ira Beckstead

‎(I74)‎

Birth 26 December 1867

32 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 17 July 1942 ‎(Age 74)‎ Midvale, Salt Lake, Utah, USA

2 years

#10

Son

Alexander Beckstead

‎(I212)‎

Birth 17 February 1870

34 West Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah, USA
Death 17 July 1942 ‎(Age 72)‎ Grace, Caribou, Idaho, USA