Nauvoo, Illinois is a small town that is often overlooked. However, years ago, it was a thriving community — some may even consider it one of the most important towns in the state. It was the town where members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the Mormons, established their headquarters. In a few short years, it became one of the largest towns in Illinois until hostility and persecution began, forcing the church’s members to flee and head out west. If you visit Nauvoo today, you’ll find an area filled with historical sites, including numerous historic homes that you can step inside and see what life was like more than 100 years ago.

Nauvoo is a town rich in history. It dates back to the spring of 1839, when members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints built a community on the banks of the Mississippi River.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Many members fled the town just a few years later due to persecution. They left homes, businesses, and other structures abandoned.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Today, many of these buildings have been restored and preserved, giving you a glimpse into the past.
Ken Lund/Flickr

Related Stories

Most People Didn't Know That Zippers Were Invented Right Here In Illinois

Most People Didn't Know That Zippers Were Invented Right Here In Illinois

 This Is The Most Illinois Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

This Is The Most Illinois Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

 For The First Time In 221 Years, A Rare Double Emergence Of Cicadas Is Expected In 2024 In Illinois

For The First Time In 221 Years, A Rare Double Emergence Of Cicadas Is Expected In 2024 In Illinois
There are a handful of tours available in this town, each offering a glimpse into the life of the pioneers. One tour that we recommend is the Temple City Tour.
Chef Bored/Google
The Temple City Tour takes you to three historic homes: the William and Caroline Weeks home, the Edward and Ann Hunter home, and the William and Esther Gheen Home.
Your tour begins at the William and Caroline Weeks home. William Weeks played an important part in the history of Nauvoo as he was the architect of the Nauvoo Temple.
Jonathan Walker/Google
The other two homes were owned by prominent members in the community and as you tour each house, you will learn more about each family and the part they played in the community and their religion.
In addition to viewing the homes, your tour will also take you to two additional historic sites: the Temple Stones Pavilion and West Grove.
Temple Stones Pavilion/Google
Life in Nauvoo was not easy but it was important. Take a step back today to learn more about it — it’s a step back in time worth taking.
Chef Bored/Google

You can learn more about this historic town and the Temple City Tour on the Discover Historic Nauvoo website. If you’re looking for more adventures in Illinois, visit Viator for inspiration.

Have you visited Nauvoo? Did you take any tours in this small town? Let us know in the comments.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Illinois

Featured Addresses
Nauvoo, IL 62354, USA