Community of Christ and FLDS Polygamy Practices Examined in Pinesdale, Montana

The town of Pinesdale, Montana, nestled in the Bitterroot Valley, has long been a subject of curiosity and scrutiny due to its association with polygamy. The community is primarily composed of members of the Apostolic United Brethren, a breakoff of the Latter-day Saint movement that practices plural marriage. While the practice of polygamy is illegal in the United States, it persists in certain religious communities, including Pinesdale.

Pinesdale’s population of around 900 is dominated by a handful of family names, many of which are linked to the Jessop family. Inga Watt, a 20-year-old student at the University of Montana, grew up in Pinesdale as part of this family. She described her grandfather, Morris Yeates Jessop, who had six wives and 60 children. Inga noted that her grandfather did not use her name in conversation, reflecting the unique dynamics of family life in a polygamous community.

The community has drawn attention from media and popular culture, including the reality show “My Five Wives,” which was filmed in Utah. However, Pinesdale itself has also been featured in various books and documentaries that explore polygamy. These portrayals often highlight the complexities and controversies surrounding the practice, including rumors of child brides and large family structures.

Chris Jessop, a 30-year-old comedian and podcast host known as “Polyganometry,” has used his platform to address misconceptions about life in Pinesdale. He has spoken about the prevalence of rumors and the reality of growing up in a polygamous environment. Jessop has acknowledged the existence of child brides and large families, though he has also sought to clarify the nuances of life in such communities.

The community’s practices and beliefs have sparked legal and social debates. While some view polygamy as a matter of religious freedom, others argue that it violates laws protecting individual rights and the well-being of children. The legal status of polygamy remains a contentious issue, with ongoing discussions about the balance between religious liberty and civil law.

In Pinesdale, the practice of polygamy continues to shape the community’s identity and interactions with the outside world. The town’s residents navigate the complexities of their beliefs while facing external scrutiny and legal challenges. The community’s story reflects broader themes of faith, tradition, and the ongoing struggle for acceptance and understanding in a society that often views such practices with skepticism.

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