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Jane Manning James (c. 1813–1908) stands as a prominent figure in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). She is distinguished by her pioneering spirit, faith, and resilience. As one of the first Black women to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jane Manning’s life reflects the intersection of religious fervor and racial challenges in 19th-century America. Her journey is a testament to the strength of her convictions and her remarkable contributions to the early Latter-day Saint community.
Early Life and Background
Jane Manning was born around 1820 in Wilton, Connecticut, into a world fraught with racial and societal challenges. She grew up in a free Black family, although her grandmother was enslaved and probably remained so for her entire life. Not much is known about her father, Isaac Manning, but he likely died in 1825. After his death, Jane was sent to work for the Fitch family. Jane described being raised by the family and might have worked as an indentured servant. Around 1839, Jane had her first child, a son named Sylvester.
In 1842, Jane met Charles Wesley Wandell, a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jane embraced the teachings of the LDS Church and was baptized In
October 1842. Jane’s conversion marked the beginning of her extraordinary journey as one of the first Black people in early Mormonism.
Conversion and Move to the West
Jane Manning’s conversion to Mormonism was a pivotal moment in her life. In 1843, she and her family decided to relocate to Nauvoo, Illinois, the bustling headquarters of the LDS Church along with many other converts from Connecticut. This decision was motivated by her commitment to the faith and a desire to be close to the church’s leaders. Partway through the journey, Jane and the other Black converts were denied passage. Some, understandably turned back but Jane continued on foot to Nauvoo. She described various points when her, and her family’s, feet were cracked and bleeding, but after sincere prayer, they were healed.
Upon her arrival in Nauvoo, Jane Manning began working in the home of Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jane described a personal and uplifting relationship with the Smith family. She also records learning about Joseph Smith polygamy from four of Joseph Smith’s plural wives, while working in the Smith home. After Smith’s murder, Jane met and married a man named Isaac James.
Contributions and Legacy
In 1846, the Mormon exodus from Nauvoo began, leading many followers to trek westward to Utah. Jane Manning joined this arduous journey, demonstrating her steadfast commitment to her faith and the church’s mission. The migration was challenging, marked by harsh conditions and numerous hardships, yet Jane’s perseverance remained unwavering.
Once in Utah, Jane Manning continued to contribute to the community. She became one of the early Black settlers in the Salt Lake Valley and faced new challenges as she integrated into the growing Mormon community. Despite being one of the few Black members, she was an integral part of the community, and her contributions were recognized and valued by church leaders.
Family and Personal Struggles
Jane Manning’s personal life was marked by both triumphs and trials. Jane and Isaac James had seven children together. However, their lives were not without difficulty. The couple faced the death of multiple children and would end up divorcing for a period of time. Jane would have a relationship with another African American member of the church, Frank Perkins. They were likely married, but the records aren’t totally clear. Eventually, their relationship would end and Isaac would come back to the Salt Lake Valley. Jane and Isaac were married until his death.
Despite the Mormon priesthood ban, Jane would participate in baptisms for the dead at the Salt Lake Endowment House. Jane would also spend much of her time petitioning to participate in other temple ordinances including, the endowment and sealing ceremonies. She would be denied for much of her life, although, she was the only person to be sealed as a “servitor” to Joseph Smith. Since she was the only person to ever be sealed that way, it is likely that the leadership of the church was dissatisfied with the ceremony.
Later Life and Legacy
Jane Manning James lived a long and eventful life, passing away in 1908 at the age of approximately 95. Her later years were marked by reflection on her life’s work and the impact she had on the LDS community. By the time of her death, she was recognized as a pioneering figure whose contributions had left an indelible mark on the church’s history.
Jane Manning James’s legacy extends beyond her role within the LDS Church. She symbolizes the strength and resilience of early Black pioneers and serves as a reminder of the complex intersection of faith and race in American history. Her story is one of perseverance in the face of adversity, embodying the courage required to overcome societal barriers and contribute meaningfully to a community.
In modern times, Jane Manning James has been recognized as a significant figure in both LDS history and African American history. Her life story is celebrated for its demonstration of faith, resilience, and commitment to a cause greater than herself. She remains a source of inspiration and a symbol of the enduring human spirit.
Conclusion
Jane Manning James’s life is a powerful narrative of faith, struggle, and triumph. Her unwavering commitment to the LDS Church, despite facing considerable racial and societal challenges, highlights her remarkable character and the significant role she played in the early history of the Church, especially as a pioneer among Blacks in Mormonism. As one of the first Black women to join and contribute to the LDS community, her legacy continues to inspire and educate, reflecting the broader themes of perseverance and devotion in the face of adversity.
By Todd Noall, Source Expert
Todd Noall is an author and religious scholar at Mormonism Explained with a focus on the history and theology of religion.
Fact Checked by Mr. Kevin Prince, Source Expert
Kevin Prince is a religious scholar and host of the Gospel Learning Youtube channel. His channel has garnered over 41,000 subscribers and accumulated over 4.5 million views. Mr. Prince also created the Gospel Learning App, a reliable platform where individuals seeking truth can access trustworthy answers to religious questions from top educators worldwide.
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