A Short History of Primary

On 25 August 1878, the first Primary meeting was held in Farmington, Utah. For some time previous, Aurelia Rogers had observed with increasing concern the little boys of the new generation of Latter–day Saints who had not been part of the founding and pioneering experience of the Church. She felt many of these children were not being taught basic principles and values. She felt they would not be prepared in either knowledge or behavior to carry the gospel forward, or even to be good parents or citizens. Sister Rogers discussed her concerns and a plan of action with general Relief Society president Eliza R. Snow. Farmington Bishop John Hess was also enthusiastic about the plan, and so the first Primary was organized. Since these leaders decided that "singing was necessary," girls were also invited to "make it sound as well as it should." Children ages 4 to 14 were invited to participate in the first Primary.