Matilda Watts Cahoon

Matilda at the time of her college graduation

Matilda Rozella Watts Cahoon was a musician who shared her talents in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and through teaching.

Matilda served as the general chorister of the Primary General Board from 1913 to 1939. During her service she wrote the lyrics for many children’s songs including “The Light Divine.”

She taught music in the Salt Lake public schools for 39 years. She served one term in the House of Representatives (1931) as the first woman delegate. She graduated with honors from the University of Utah at the age of 65.

Matilda was born on March 19, 1881, in Salt Lake City, Utah. She passed away on September 20, 1973.