This study is an examination of the contributions made by Captain Dan Jones, called the father of the Welsh Mission of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and a pioneer to the Great Basin. Jones was one of the all-time missionary greats, instrumental in converting over 5,000 Welsh people and their introduction into the Utah pioneer society. He operated a steamboat on the Mississippi for the Mormon Church and later a commercial boat on the Great Salt Lake for Brigham Young. Jones headed a steambot expedition in opposition to an attempted kidnapping of Joseph Smith in Illinois. The last recorded prophecy of Joseph Smith at Carthage, Illinois, was related to the missionary work of Dan Jones in Wales. Jones participated in the exploration which led to the settlement of southern Utah. He helped settle three communities, being the first mayor of Manti.