Relief Society General President
1842–1844

Emma Smith became the first president of the Relief Society when it was organized in Nauvoo, Illinois, on March 17, 1842. Under her leadership the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo raised funds for the Nauvoo Temple, sewed clothes for the temple workmen, petitioned Governor Thomas Carlin to protect Joseph Smith, nursed the sick, cared for the poor, and gave relief where it was needed. During the early years of the Church, Emma suffered many trials and persecutions with the Saints. A revelation given to Emma in 1830 through the Prophet Joseph Smith gave her instructions and promised great blessings, even “a crown of righteousness” (D&C 25:15), if she obeyed the commandments. She was married to Joseph Smith, and they had eleven children, including adopted twins.