Today is July 24th, also known as Pioneer Day–a Utah state holiday that commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847.

On this day, Utahns enjoy parades, fireworks, rodeos, and other festivities to commemorate the event. But one of the best ways we can honor our pioneer ancestors is to learn more about them. Below are a few great resources you can use to better appreciate the Mormon pioneers:

Past Pioneers

• Read the subject “Pioneers” at MormonWiki.com.
• Read the article “Pioneer Trek” at MormonNewsroom.org.
• Read “Our Honored Pioneer Heritage” by President Thomas S. Monson.
• Look through the Mormon Migration Database, 1840-1932, an index of pioneer immigrants with image links to journals, autobiographies, letters, and other narratives.
• Search for one of your ancestors in the Mormon Pioneer Overland Travel database to find out more about the individuals in the various pioneer companies.
• See a virtual tour of the This Is The Place Heritage Park.

Modern Pioneers

• Watch videos about various modern-day pioneers.
• Read “The World Needs Pioneers Today” by President Monson
• Look through Pioneers in Every Land on the Church History website.
• Watch the video below “Pioneers: Followers of Jesus Christ:”

“The days of the pioneers are not past. … In every nation, in every worthy occupation and activity, members of this church face hardships, overcome obstacles, and follow the servants of the Lord Jesus Christ as valiantly as the pioneers of any age.” — Elder Dallin H Oaks