Once upon a time, Nauvoo, Illinois was one of the most important towns in the state. It was the town where Joseph Smith, and other Mormons, sought refuge from religious persecution. In 1844, the population topped 12,000 people, rivaling the size of Chicago. Today, the history is so well-preserved. In fact, it is one of the most historic towns in the United States.
You can check out 30 historic sites from 1839-1846.
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Everywhere you look, there are relics of the past.
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There are restored homes and public buildings for you to explore.
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In fact, there are loads of historical reenactments.
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While this town will show you what life was like during this time, it will specifically show what it was like to be a Mormon.
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This is the historic Carthage jail, where Joseph Smith was martyred.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Today, there is a beautiful Mormon temple.
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Even today, you can see the appeal of this great town for its ancestors.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Looking for other charming small towns in Illinois? Check out this list.
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Ken Lund/Flickr
Matt Turner/Flickr
Brian Adams/Flickr
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