Porter Rockwell is perhaps one of the most notorious names in Latter-day Saint History. A devout Church member, he was born Orrin Porter Rockwell. His close and warm friendship with the Prophet Jospeh Smith began in the early days of the restoration and lasted all Joseph’s life. Rockwell’s famed accuracy with a shotgun was coupled with with his insistence on “always shoot first . . . that way they know you’re armed.”

Porter Rockwell remained a strong faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints until his death in June 1878. Today the legend of Porter Rockwell has spawned many books, movies characters, and stories. Here is a visual history of one of the most outstanding characters in Church history.

Questions people also ask about Porter Rockwell

How did Porter Rockwell die? Natural Causes – Porter Rockwell died of what is only listed as natural causes on his death notice.

When was Porter Rockwell born? Although there are a couple different dates reported for Porter Rockwell’s birth June 28, 1813 seems to be the official recognition. However June 25, 1815 seems to also have some traction. Joseph Smith was friends with Porter Rockwell before he became Joseph’s bodyguard. The official Porter Rockwell biography page by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says Porter was eight years younger than the Prophet.

Who was Brigham Young’s bodyguard? Porter Rockwell was also the body guard of Brigham Young.

Who did Porter Rockwell KILL? There is no official or complete list of any persons killed by Porter Rockwell.

Where is Porter Rockwell buried? The burial place and tombstone marking the grave of Porter Rockwell are in the Salt Lake Cemetery.