Joseph and Emma Smith's Mansion House

Joseph and Emma Smith and their children moved into this home in August 1843 after leaving the home just behind it and to the right. Soon afterward, a hotel wing was added so they could provide lodging for their many guests. They operated the hotel for a few months before leasing it in January 1844, while keeping a portion for their private residence. Joseph lived here for less than a year. On June 27, 1844, he and his brother Hyrum were killed while imprisoned in Carthage, Illinois, sealing their testimony of Jesus Christ with their blood. Their bodies were returned here, where they lay in state for a day before burial. After Joseph's death, Emma continued to live here for a time with her children and later with her second husband, Lewis Bidamon.

Nauvoo, Illinois · United States