Nauvoo: Day 2

Today we headed back to Nauvoo. This time we started by doing a session in the breathtaking Nauvoo temple. This temple was originally built and dedicated during the time the early members lived in Nauvoo. However, after they left, the temple was eventually destroyed by fire and tornado. In 1856, the remaining wall of the temple was ordered to be demolished. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reacquired the lot in 1962 and the temple was re-built (as was built by the early pioneers) in 2002. Even though it was not the original building that Grandpa Charles and Grandma Louisa were married in, it was still an incredible experience to be in that re-built temple that my ancestors sacrificed so much for. The spirit of peace was evident as soon as we entered. Again, I was left with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for my pioneer ancestors. As I reflected on their lives, it put my own life, with all its trials and struggles, into perspective. It was a great way to start our day!

Across the street from the temple is this bronze statue of Joseph and Hyrum Smith commemorating the time they left Nauvoo to head to Carthage...never to return again. It is a very poignant work of art.

Once we finished our session and changed our clothes, we headed back into the "town" of Nauvoo. I put it that way because the historic Nauvoo is more of a re-creation of pioneer times rather than the actual town of Nauvoo (which is actually to the east of the temple). We finished visiting the homes and re-created shops. As we toured the various locations, I was again struck by the ingenuity and tenacity of these early settlers. I marveled at the demonstrations of everything from brick making to barrel making. I was impressed with their skills and knowledge.

The Mansion House where Joseph and Emma moved to and Emma lived out the rest of her life.

The Browning Gun Shop...the only place that really seemed to spark Jeff's interest.

This was the rocking horse of one of John Taylor's children. He actually returned to Nauvoo after crossing the Mississippi to retrieve it after he was unable to console his daughter at her loss. What a tender and amazing father!

The Brickyard

Lucy Mack Smith's home (mother to the prophet Joseph Smith)

Brigham Young's home

Scovil Bakery 

After visiting the homes and shops, we ended our day at the Family Living Center. Here we learned how they made rope, weaved rugs, baked bread, etc. I was sad to finally leave Nauvoo to head back to our hotel on the Iowa side of the Mississippi. Nauvoo will always carry a sacred place in my heart.