Names/Lilburn/Lilburn W. Boggs
Political LeaderAmerican1792 – 1860

Lilburn W. Boggs

6th Governor of Missouri, involvement in Mormon-Missouri conflict

Biography

Lilburn Williams Boggs (December 14, 1792 – March 14, 1860) was an American politician and diplomat who served as the sixth Governor of Missouri from 1837 to 1841. Born in Kentucky, Boggs moved to Missouri as a young man and rose through the political ranks as a Democratic politician. His governorship was marked by significant conflict with the growing Mormon settlement in Missouri, culminating in the 1838 Mormon War. During this conflict, Boggs issued the controversial 'Extermination Order,' which aimed to expel Mormons from the state—a decision that remains contentious in historical discourse. After his term as governor, he served as U.S. Minister to Chile during the Polk administration. Boggs's political career reflects the turbulent expansion era of American history, and his legacy remains intertwined with early Mormon-American relations and the complexities of religious tolerance in the early republic.

The Name Lilburn

Lilburn is an exceptionally rare given name in American history, with the most notable bearer being Governor Boggs, making it a distinctive choice with pioneer-era roots.

Quick Facts
Category

Political Leader

Nationality

American

Born

1792

Died

1860

Thinking about the name

Lilburn

English origin

This English place-name-derived name combines 'Lil-' with 'burn' (a small stream in Old English and Scottish dialect). Lilburn has a pastoral, lyrical quality—evoking water, nature, and tranquility while maintaining a strong, purposeful sound. It carries the elegance of English countryside geography.

Lilburn W. Boggs — Famous Lilburn | NameBayBay | NameBayBay