🎶 December Artifact of the Month: 1903 Sunday School Hymn Book
- Melanee Olsen
- 4 days ago
- 1 min read
Our Artifact of the Month is a small 1903 Deseret Sunday School Hymn Book, once owned by Melba W. Henson. It is a words-only songbook that children and families used in Sunday School.
On the inside cover is a short message from the editors that captures why these books were created:
”The best hymns for use in the Sunday School are ‘Hymns that help’ in the building up of a strong, all-round, Christly character.”
For pioneer families, music was not just something to enjoy — it was part of daily life. Hymns united children, strengthened homes, and offered comfort and hope.
As we enter the Christmas season, we are reminded that music still plays an important role in how we celebrate. Christmas hymns and carols bring families together just as they did more than a century ago.
This month’s Artifact of the Month connects beautifully with our recent December program, “The History of the Choir at Temple Square,” presented by Jon Green. The Choir’s rich tradition grew from the same practices that created hymnbooks like this one — communities that believed that music matters.
The Museum is currently closed through January 2 for roof repairs. Still, we hope you enjoy this piece of pioneer history online as we celebrate a season filled with music, memory, and joy. 🔔
The Artifact of the Month series at the McQuarrie Memorial Museum (also known as the DUP Museum or Pioneer Museum) highlights unique items from our collection that share the stories of pioneer life. Each artifact offers a glimpse into the heritage we preserve for future generations.
