welcome to Nauvoo

After several fun filled days, we left Plainfield and drove in a rental car to Nauvoo. Words cannot express the feelings as we drove into this area. Let's just say that it is very powerful.

Jake and Lander at the Nauvoo Temple

When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo, they walked down Parley Street to this spot on the banks of the Mississippi River. I cannot imagine the feelings our families must have felt as they left their warm homes behind for the cold and unknown futures that they faced.

We found this map hanging in the rebuilt home of Brigham Young. It is a map of the many LDS settlements out west.  Our family was called to many of these far out (and sometimes to what might have seemed forsaken) places; St. Joseph, the colonies in Mexico, Kirtland, or according to the map "Kirkland". I'm wondering if this might be an error? So far internet searches haven't shown anything by the name of Kirkland, maybe someone else knows?

The fall colors were really starting to set in. This is the view from the gun smith shop, looking towards the post office.

We rented this refurbished pioneer cabin that was brought in from Evanston, Wyoming. We were surprised to learn that Philo T. Farnsworth owned land directly across the street from our cabin.

Say "Cheese!" Jake and Lander pose, and apparently Dixie too, for yet another picture make the most of the old Nauvoo experiences.

This is the original Smith Homestead. Joseph Smith moved his family into the log portion in April 1839. It also served as church headquarters for about 2 years. Joseph, Emma, Hyrum, and several other family members are buried in the family cemetery next to the Homestead.

The Church of Christ owns the Homestead and gives tours for a nominal fee. Pictures aren't allowed. After our tour Josh fessed up that he had been taking incognito photos. Tsk, tsk Mr. Jamison. In any case, this is a view of the original living room and firelplace.

Jake and Lander consented to babysitting themselves for a few hours so that we could go on a date to the temple. Talk about a beautiful site!