Peter Madsen Peel | |
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Born | Peter Madsen Pihl 24 Aug, 1820 Aakirkeby, Denmark |
Died | 20 Nov, 1900 Mount Pleasant, Utah |
Nationality | United States |
Occupation | Blacksmith |
Known for | First blacksmith in Mount Pleasant, Utah |
Spouse | Christianna Folkman |
Peter Madsen Peel (1820—1900) was a founder,[1] first blacksmith, and civic leader of Mount Pleasant, Utah. A replica of his blacksmith shop is located next to the Relic Hall in Mt. Pleasant, including a working forge.[2] Peter was born in Aakirkeby, Denmark, in 1820; he was married in 1846 to Christianna Folkman. In 1853-1854 they emigrated[3] to the United States, living first in Lehi, then moving to Sanpete County during the Utah War in 1858. He joined with others in founding[4][5] Mt. Pleasant in 1859. In addition to being the first blacksmith in Mt. Pleasant, he was an investor in an early mill on First West, the first president of the Birch Creek Irrigation Company,[6] and a leader in the LDS church (he ordained Apostle Anthon H. Lund to be a Seventy[7]). He and his wife rented rooms in their home on "Peel Corner" to such a degree that it was referred to as the "Peel Hotel".[8] The Pioneer Monument[9][10] in Mt. Pleasant lists Peter as a founder of the city.