
author
1839–1914
A Norwegian-born Latter-day Saint missionary and community leader, he wrote a vivid firsthand account of faith, travel, and church-building in 19th-century Norway and Utah. His memoir is especially valued for its simple, direct picture of early missionary life.

by Anthon L. (Anthon Lornsen) Skanchy
Born in Trondheim, Norway, in 1839, Anthon Lornsen Skanchy later became known for his service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In his autobiographical sketch, he recalls his early life in Norway, and later sources about him describe a life that stretched between Scandinavia and Utah.
Skanchy is best remembered for missionary work in Norway. The published introduction to his memoir says he spent a large part of his mature life in missionary service and was among those who helped open the church's work more widely there. Church history sources also show that he served missions in the Scandinavian Mission, including work specifically in Norway.
He later lived in Logan, Utah, where he served as bishop of the Logan Sixth Ward. His memoir was translated and edited by John A. Widtsoe, helping preserve Skanchy's plainspoken account of hardship, conviction, and religious dedication. He died on April 19, 1914.