Nauvoo
History of Nauvoo
Nauvoo is a city located in Hancock County, Illinois, United States. It is historically significant for its association with the Latter Day Saint movement, particularly during the early 19th century. The city's history is deeply intertwined with the religious and social dynamics of the period, making it a focal point for scholars studying the intersection of religion, migration, and community development in the United States.
Early Settlement
The area that would become Nauvoo was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Fox. European-American settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century, attracted by the fertile land along the Mississippi River. The settlement was initially known as Commerce, and it was officially platted in 1834. The name "Commerce" reflected the settlers' hopes for the area to become a thriving trade center.
The Arrival of the Latter Day Saints
In 1839, Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, selected Commerce as the new gathering place for his followers after they were expelled from Missouri. Smith renamed the settlement Nauvoo, which he claimed meant "beautiful place" in Hebrew. The Latter Day Saints, also known as Mormons, quickly transformed Nauvoo into a bustling city. By 1844, Nauvoo's population had grown to over 12,000, rivaling that of Chicago at the time.
The Nauvoo Charter
In 1840, the Illinois legislature granted Nauvoo a city charter, which provided the city with considerable autonomy. The charter allowed for the establishment of a municipal court, a university, and a militia known as the Nauvoo Legion. This autonomy was crucial for the Latter Day Saints, as it allowed them to govern themselves and protect their community from external threats.
Economic and Social Development
Under Joseph Smith's leadership, Nauvoo became a center of economic and social activity. The city featured a variety of businesses, including mills, factories, and shops. The Latter Day Saints also established a newspaper, the Times and Seasons, which served as a platform for disseminating church doctrine and news. Socially, Nauvoo was characterized by a strong sense of community and religious devotion, with the construction of the Nauvoo Temple as a focal point.
Conflict and Exile
Despite its growth and prosperity, Nauvoo was not without conflict. Tensions between the Latter Day Saints and their non-Mormon neighbors escalated due to religious, political, and economic differences. In 1844, Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum were killed by a mob in nearby Carthage, Illinois. Following Smith's death, leadership disputes and external pressures led to the eventual exodus of the Latter Day Saints from Nauvoo in 1846. The majority of the community migrated westward, eventually settling in what is now Utah.
Post-Mormon Era
After the departure of the Latter Day Saints, Nauvoo experienced a period of decline. Many of the buildings were abandoned, and the population dwindled. In the late 19th century, the city saw a resurgence with the arrival of the Icarians, a French utopian socialist group. The Icarians attempted to establish a communal society in Nauvoo, but their efforts ultimately failed due to internal disagreements.
Preservation and Tourism
In the 20th century, interest in Nauvoo's historical significance grew, leading to efforts to preserve its heritage. The Community of Christ and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have both played roles in restoring and maintaining historic sites in Nauvoo. Today, Nauvoo is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in its rich history and well-preserved architecture.
Architecture and Landmarks
Nauvoo is renowned for its historic architecture, much of which dates back to the early 19th century. The city's layout reflects the Plat of Zion, a city planning model proposed by Joseph Smith. Key landmarks include the Nauvoo Temple, the Joseph Smith Historic Site, and the Nauvoo House.
Nauvoo Temple
The original Nauvoo Temple was completed in 1846, shortly before the Latter Day Saints' exodus. It was a significant religious and cultural symbol for the community. The temple was destroyed by fire in 1848 and later by a tornado in 1850. In 2002, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints completed a reconstruction of the temple on its original site, restoring its status as a prominent feature of the Nauvoo skyline.
Joseph Smith Historic Site
The Joseph Smith Historic Site encompasses several buildings associated with Joseph Smith and the early Latter Day Saint movement. These include the Smith family homes, the Red Brick Store, and the Nauvoo House. The site is managed by the Community of Christ and offers guided tours to visitors.
Cultural Legacy
Nauvoo's cultural legacy is multifaceted, encompassing religious, social, and historical dimensions. The city's history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Latter Day Saints, as well as the broader themes of religious freedom and community building in American history.
Influence on Latter Day Saint Movement
Nauvoo played a crucial role in shaping the doctrines and practices of the Latter Day Saint movement. The city served as a laboratory for Joseph Smith's theological innovations, including the introduction of temple ordinances and the practice of plural marriage. These developments had lasting impacts on the movement and continue to influence its various branches today.
Historical Research and Scholarship
Nauvoo is a subject of extensive historical research and scholarship. Historians and scholars have explored its significance in the context of 19th-century American religious movements, migration patterns, and urban development. The city's archives and preserved sites provide valuable resources for academic study.