William Derby Johnson, Jr.

William Derby Johnson Jr.
Journal Excerpts 1850-1894

“In 1994 when I first discovered the 1850 -1994 journals of . . . William Derby Johnson, Jr. I read with astonishment and admiration of the many accomplishments of this intelligent and industrious man who joined the Powell exploration group, was a member of the Utah territory House of Representatives, the (Mormon) Bishop of the Kanab Ward for 15 years and Colonia Diaz Ward for 25 years. He served as teacher, business man, “doctor” and community leader in addition to his duties as bishop. What I admire most of all was his ability to bounce back and prosper under the most difficult circumstances and following one terrible adversity after another.

“I have read the 1978 edition of these journals…many times – and each time, I found some new gem of information that I had previously missed. Each reading also whetted my appetite to learn more about the history of the United States, Utah, Mexico, the Mormon Church, the explorations by Powell’s group, the expansion of railroads and the geography of Utah and Northern Mexico. I was determined that my family, as well as other of his descendents who had no access to these journals, should have the opportunity to become acquainted with this interesting man.”

—Dorothy Fillerup Boyer (excerpt from book Foreword)

A must read for anyone with an interest in the history of the old Southwest!

SEE ALSO!

The following books from our website:

My Treasure Trove of Memories: Moneta Johnson Fillerup – Daughter of William Derby Johnson, Jr.

Charles Richard Fillerup – Son-in-law of William Derby Johnson, Jr.