Carthage and Nauvoo

We then headed for Carthage, site of the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum. We crossed into Illinois - state #19.

When we got to Carthage, it was pouring rain. We knew we wouldn't be able to go inside because of COVID, but we got lucky in that some sister missionaries were giving a virtual tour so we were able to walk around the grounds. It is a sacred place and the Spirit is strong there. The story of the martyrdom can be read in the Doctrine and Covenants. 

The upper window is the one Joseph fell from when he was shot.

He landed in this courtyard.

"He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated!"

Through this window, you can see the stairs where the mob ran up and charged through the door. It was hard not to be able to go in and see it. We did learn that we can sign up to have a virtual tour with the missionaries. We are definitely doing that when we get home.

When then arrived at the Shurtleff home where we would spend the next two nights. We were so grateful to have a place to stay with sweet friends who are good examples for us and our kids. We were grateful they were willing to share their home with us.

For most of my adult life I have wanted to visit Nauvoo - the beautiful settlement on the banks of the Mississippi that my ancestors were forced to abandon when driven out by religious persecution. I love that this place has been restored to much of its original beauty. It was a peaceful place to spend the day.

Joseph and Hyrum could have escaped, but they chose to turn around and go back, knowing that their lives were probably over.

Mike Shurtleff is the assistant facilities manager at the temple. What an amazing job!

I love that much of Nauvoo has been restored. I hope it makes the Saints in heaven happy when they see it. I was surprised at the size of many of the homes and businesses. It made me realize how hard it must have been to leave.

Like much of our trip, we weren't able to do everything planned because of COVID. Someday we'll go back to Nauvoo and experience all the activities and pageants that are available. But it was really nice to have the town basically to ourselves. We were the only people on the streets. It was quiet and peaceful. I was able to imagine what it must have been like. I'm glad I got to experience it that way.

Joseph and Emma's mansion house. This was one the few homes that Emma had that was her own. For much of her married life, she had to live off the charity of others. I don't blame her for not wanting to leave and cross the plains. This home is owned by the Community of Christ (formerly the FLDS church). They're buildings don't appear to be as well cared for as those owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Burial sites of Joseph, Hyrum, Emma, and Joseph's parents.

 

Reconstruction of the Red Brick store where the School of the Prophets was held, the revelation of the Word of Wisdom was first shared, and some endowments were held. This is also owned by the Community of Christ.

 I love these big bales of hay.

This land is just down the road from the store. It was owned by my great-great-great grandfather, Herman Daggett Bayles. I loved walking where my family had walked. His home is on Parley Street, which is also called the Trail of Hope. It is the path the saints walked as they left Nauvoo and crossed the Mississippi to temporary safety in Iowa.

Across Parley Street

Seventies Hall

Along the Trail of Hope, you can read some quotes from saints that made the exodus.

 

Brigham and Joseph looking westward.

Sticking our feet in the Mississippi River.

The lilypads were HUGE!

This is the view the Saints would have of the temple as they left Nauvoo behond. Those who left last would see the smoke rising from the burning of the temple.

We walked and drove all around the town. None of my family homes are still standing, but we located where all their property had been. One of the plots is now a Dollar General!

This was the property of Amasa Lyman.

David and Michael found a hidden cemetery.

Outhouse

Coal bin

Well

This is the granite quarry where the stones for the temple were taken from. It has been filled with water.

The "new" part of town. It's a quaint little place.

Wall and floor of the place where we had lunch.

Love this family: Michael III, Mike Jr, David, Charley, Rebecca, Jalen, Baylie, Isaac.

Fun little shop where we bought our hotels.

There are lots of bed and breakfasts and many of the missionaries live in restored or replica homes.

One more view of the temple. 

We went cemetery exploring - a favorite past time of mine. We passed some historical homes on the way.

First was the old city cemetery.

But the real treasure is the old Nauvoo Burial Grounds. It was closed, but we found a way.

It's a lovely spot.

I think my only ancestor buried here is Edward Partridge, first bishop of the Church. He died in the cholera epidemic.

Most of the headstones are hard to read, but I love trying to figure out their stories.

Robison is a family name so this could be a relative.

There's a beautiful sculpture there representing all the families that had to bury their children. Many of the graves here are those of children.

Whenever I think life is hard or God is asking too much of me, I remember where I came from and I am humbled and know I can't quit or turn my back on the faith they sacrificed everything for.

Nauvoo did not disappoint and I'm so glad we were able to visit.