William Hodgkinson

Hodgkinson Line

William and Hepzibah Hodgkinson . William is father of Lewis Martin Hodgkinson and Grandfather to Melvin J. Hodgkinson.

The story of William's conversion has some interesting circumstances.  Here is quoted from his history:

"William (III) told that he held a position of rank in the special bodyguard of Queen Victoria. . . . .  A study of British Royalty reveals that on 14 December 1861, Prince Albert died.  After his death, Queen Victoria became more conservative than she had previously been and her public appearances were even less frequent than before.  This would indicate that those who comprised the special bodyguard to the Queen would be like minute-men, instead of this being a steady job. . . . When William (III) was on his special duty to the Queen, he was quartered with the British Army No. 8 Company, North Camp.  One day while in attendance on her Royal Highness, William (III) heard an unusual doctrine being taught in a street meeting on the embankment below.  The doctrine seemed to have a familiar ring and he felt that he was hearing the everlasting truth which he believed.  Opportunity later afforded him occasion to hear more of the Gospel.  He accepted it and was baptized on 3 February 1867. . . .  William was very active in Church.  Joseph F. Smith recalled that when he was on a mission in England, William Hodgkinson (III) saved his life by rescuing him from a mob who was going to tar and feather him and throw him into the docks.  William (III) also saved President Bennion and Ruben Collett from a mob when they were in England on missions."