As guests arrive in Nauvoo, they wonder what there is to do in Nauvoo … what should they see, and how do they get started. The best place to begin a Nauvoo experience is to first go to a Visitors’ Center.
I love what is now called the “Historic Nauvoo Visitors’ Center”. This was dedicated in 1971. I arrived on the Nauvoo scene in 1975 and enjoyed the new and wonderful building. It was not then historic, but with the passage of time, it is now.
I was here with 19 other young Elders and about 20 senior couples. The senior couples were all assigned specific homes and they managed and cared for those homes, and gave tour of them to the guests who came. They did not move from restored home to restored home. They spent their entire missions in their initial assigned home.
My wife’s parents, Elder E.H. and Sister Verna Belcher served for 18 months and then received two 6-month extensions. So they spent literally two and a half years just in the tiny Lucy Mack Smith home.
I served my final six months of my mission in Nauvoo. And now Sister Hunt and I have been here as a senior couple for nearly 18 months. Wow! (Where did that time go?)
I have enjoyed telling people that I served here on my “young mission” and this amazes everyone – inclluding me. I tell them that I did then the exact same thing (site guide) as I do now … and that the only difference was that I wear a period costume now and back then I wore a white shirt and tie.
Back in ’75, we served in eight restored homes. These included Wilford Woodruff, Heber C. Kimball, and Lucy Mack Smith homes, the Jonathan Browning home and gun shop, the John Taylor home and Print Shop (then called “The Times and Seasons Building”), the Brigham Young home, the Webb Blacksmith Shop, and the Seventies Hall.
Today we serve in 28 restored homes and shops and we have to know the scripts or presentations for all of those places. We are assigned to six different homes in a given week. (One day a week is our “p-day” – Prepartation Day and we are off for shopping, laundry, and relaxation).
“Back in the day” all of us young missionaries were based in the Visitors’ Center. We had a missionary lounge downstairs with couches and chairs. We had a large library and when not giving tours, we were reading Nauvoo history books and biographies of the early Saints. And of course, we could also take cat-naps and play ping pong. I enjoyed cooking for the other five guys in my “Red Barn” home group.
One or two Elders were stationed for the day at the desk of the Visitors’ Center. and then as people arrived, we would be called up to meet them and to take them on a tour of the center. (Today all of the displays are “self-guided”).
We took guests on a tour of the main floor and told them about the Restoration of the Gospel, The Book of Mormon, Nauvoo during the pioneer era, and the migration west. Then upstairs, we had rooms dedicated to the Temple and the organization of the Relief Society.
Also, we would relieve the couples at noon and later in the afternoon. Pairs of us would go to four different homes about 11:30 AM and would man the house for an hour as the older folks went to lunch. Then as they returned, we would move to a second home for another hour. We then took over the homes at 5:00 PM and the couples would go home. We manned the homes – and the visitors’ center until 8 PM. That would end our very long days.
Visitors’ Centers have been an important part of the Nauvoo community for a hundred years. I have mentioned the 1975 Visitors Center that has now become the “Historic Nauvoo Visitors Center” (That must also mean that I am now “historic”.)
This fall, many of the displays of the “Historic Nauvoo Visitors’ Center will be removed from the walls. We are told that these are being removed to be refurbished and otherwise prepared to be a part of a new “Temple Visitors’ Center” that is being constructed to be specific to the Temple. These displays will be designed to tell the story of the Temple here in Nauvoo and the in the world generally. This new center is being built now and is set to be done early summer of 2026.
Meanwhile, the current Historic Visitors’ Center will take more of a “back seat” and will become the Nauvoo Performing Center. The Nauvoo Performing Missionaries will use the building for a variety of performances. Local community groups will also likely be able to use the facilities for concerts and other performances.
On March 5, 2024 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints purchased the visitors center formerly owned and operated by the Community of Christ church. On June 15th of this 2025 year, the visitors’ center opened as “The South visitors’ Center”. Displays are just being set up there so the place will likely continue to grow as new exhibits are ultimately placed there.
All of these faciities are designed to assist our guests who come to Nauvoo. The various centers are to help people feel at home, to meet nice friends (missionaries), to rest, and to gain infomation about Nauvoo generally and also schedules and tour opportunities. With soon to be three visitors’ centers and a plethora of restored homes and shops, there should be something for everyone.
Missionaries staff each of the centers and they (we) eagerly await your visits – along with all of your guests. We’ll be waiting for you! Come to Nauvoo and experience it for yourself. There is a special spirit present here in Nauvoo People who come here experience and feel it. At the visitors’ centers we can provide maps, interactive games and activities for the children, We have movies, Temple models, restrooms, entertainment, information, and of course helpful missionary staffers available to assist you. We can help you plan and enjoy a wonderful experience here in Nauvoo. We are ready to welcome you here.
Move it up on your “bucket list” and start making your way here to old Nauvoo.
The following pages talk of and display a plethora of historic photos about the many visitors’ center opportunities here in Nauvoo. Enjoy a bot of history here in Nauvoo and plan to come and be welcomed to Nauvoo.
Come to Nauvoo. Everyone here is waiting to welcome you!
So, you want to come to Nauvoo? That is such great news. You are not alone! God has put into the hearts of many to come to His sacred and holy places of Nauvoo. And why is it that so many people want to come to Nauvoo? The reasons vary but most folks want to see and experience the history of the church, the prophets, the early Saints and their own ancestors who once lived, served, and grew in faith and fortitude here. Some have had it on their “bucket lists” for many years. It seems to be a yearning within all of us. (And a warning … once you have experienced it, it can be habit forming – making you want to return again and again!)
Above: Kevin and Lou pulling their way to Nauvoo with grandkids Brodey and Lucy
It is a strong pull! For many it has been a long-time dream. A few people just suddenly decide to come here, but for most, it is a trip that takes considerable time, effort and resources to pull off a trip to Nauvoo.
TIME IS THE FIRST MAJOR CONSIDERATION
There are, of course, many “locals” (people within say about 4 hours of Nauvoo) – who are privileged to come here frequently. For these people little is required in time and resources. They can easily come for a day or two – and often can make multiple trips to Nauvoo over short periods of time.
These folks are truly blessed to be able experience Nauvoo often, but they are kind of the exception to the rule. Wouldn’t that be nice?
Most people come to Nauvoo from “out west”, “back east”, or “down south” and their trips require much advance planning. And coming to Nauvoo involves a major trans-continental journey that often takes six or more days just for the travel. Take for instance … coming to Nauvoo from our hometown of Maricopa, Arizona or wherever our children live – in Nevada, Idaho, and Utah. Unless you are a crazy die-hard driver like our son-in-law, Mike, it is generally a three day trip each way. And then if you spend three or four days in Nauvoo (recommended), that makes it about a ten-day trip. That takes some serious vacation-day planning – that is often not easy to come by.
HOW TO GET TO NAUVOO
It is not easy to get to Nauvoo. You have to really want to get here. It is not on the open trail. It is a place kind of secluded away from much of the world. Even the Church website is way too honest: “As you prepare to travel to Historic Nauvoo, keep in mind that it is a small town in a rural area. There are no direct travel routes to Nauvoo, and it is not close to any major city center. No matter what form of transportation you choose, additional driving from another city will be required.” (Source: “Travel Information for Historic Nauvoo”, churchofjesuschrist.org).
Many of my “peeps” (children and grandchildren) live around Maricopa, Arizona, where my wife and I are from. Some of the family daughters live elsewhere – like Las Vegas, Idaho Falls and Lehi, Utah. I could talk of any of these places but for the purposes of this blog article, I will focus upon Maricopa – though the same challenges plague those from Utah and beyond.
One internet source says that there are “9 ways to get from Maricopa to Nauvoo”. (and yesterday it said there were 8!).
The first option is to fly in an airplane. And that is a bit tricky. The closest major airport is St. Louis, Missouri. This airport has the most flight and airline options. But St. Louis is three and a half hours from Nauvoo. That means that you have to rent a vehicle – or have someone (like Sister Hunt and me) to come to pick you up – and to take you back to same.
If you rent a car, most people who come to Nauvoo will need a BMW (that a “big Mormon Wagon”). And those are often not easy to come by – either in availability or sheer financial capabilities. If you rent a car, you will need one for multiple days – for the duration of your trip. If a Nauvoo resident (missionary or otherwise) comes for you, that is a 7-hour round trip to pick you up – and then another similar trek on the other end of your visit.
That same Church website noted above lists several potential airports: Quad Cities, Illinois (a 2-hour drive from Nauvoo), St. Louis Lambert (3 hours), Des Moines, Iowa (3 hours), Chicago, Illinois (4 ½ hours), and Kansas City International (4 ½ hours)
Chicago is an almost equal distance away. There are smaller airlines and airports within about two to three hours distance. But to these places, the flights are kind of few and far between. Allegiant Airlines flies into the “Quad Cities” in Illinois. This is actually a good option for some (if you are lucky enough to have such an airport within a hundred miles of your home base). But then you have the challenge of their flight schedules. They usually have fights – both to and from – on one or two days (like Thursday and Sunday) and so that means that you get a two day and a half or a week-long stay option in Nauvoo.
Another challenge with the above airline, you have to take out a second mortgage on your home in order to pay for any “extra” luggage that you bring. You get only one “free” personal bag – that is big enough for only a change of underwear and your toothbrush.
Take the train: Amtrak serves many cities within a couple of hours of Nauvoo but trying to catch one from out west can be challenging – since Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Idaho (where my kids are) have only two or three cities where they stop or pick-up. My wife and I recently took a train trip to a grandson’s wedding. We got on in Burlington, Iowa (35 minutes north of Nauvoo) and got off in Provo, Utah. Since we are “old folks”, we got special deals and it was literally half of the cost of flying on an airplane. The trip took about 29 hours each way. The trip was long but very comfortable. And a special perk was that we went through some very high and stupendous travel routes through the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
Above: Colorado Rocky Mountains as viewed from Amtrak Train
Train personnel bragged that we saw much grand country that is seen only two ways – on a raft on the Colorado River, and on the train. It certainly was gorgeous. I would highly recommend such a trip. It is “glorious and beautiful”.
Of course you can get in your BMW (“Big Mormon Wagon”) and traverse the country via your favorite route. You can drive and drive forever, as Mike did, but for most sane people, about 500 miles is about the recommended miles per travel day. And from our Maricopa, for instance, the distance is just a handful short of 1,500 miles. That means three days and two nights of hotels and a lot of fast-food restaurants on the way. And any parent or grandparent knows that if you are traveling with children, you also need to add two or three hours a day to accommodate the many “drink and drain” situations as they come up all too often.
WHERE DO WE STAY?
There are a couple of hotels in Nauvoo. And many stay in hotels in nearby Keokuk or St. Madison. But, remember if you stay that far away, you have to plan an extra half hour each way for every late-night or early-morning trip that you make to and from Nauvoo.
In today’s world, the Air B and B lure seems to be the big thing. Everyone wants the “B’s”. And that can be a great option. Prices and facilities vary greatly but half the town seems to be on the “B” circuit. There are seemingly a million places for accommodation around Nauvoo. If this is your selected option, be sure to make reservations way early. The places fill up fast – and especially during the July pageant month – when the show casts add an extra 400-500 or more people into the community for some extended stays.
My personal preference (for economy) and my wanderlust spirit (too many Boy Scout camping nights) would be to camp and stay in the Nauvoo State Park.
Every time I drive by or through the State Park, I say to myself, “This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds I have seen in a “coon’s age”. The campground has showers, running water, hiking trails, and even a small lake. The challenge is to find the spot on the website to make reservations … but once you are there, you can make reservations for $20 to $30 per night.
Above: Camp Nauvoo in Nauvoo, Illinois
Camp Nauvoo is another great option. This is a public campground owned by the Community of Christ Church. This place has RV sites, a few cabins, tenting space and some large group use camping and other facilities. There is opportunity for families, large groups, or whatever your group might be. Our family stayed in a cabin at Camp Nauvoo when we came here 28 years ago and as we were in the “City of Joseph” pageant. And we have such great memories of those fun times.
And for the really lucky folks, … if you are privileged enough, you might have a Senior Nauvoo Missionary Couple grandparent who can put you up – or put up with you. (But they so love having you come!) That’s how our kids get their accommodations when we are blessed to have them come. Every missionary home is different (though always small). In our Simeon A. Dunn historic home, we have a nice full basement. Though a bit “scary” for little kids, it really is quite nice. We have a large vintage rag rug on the floor and we have a plethora or air mattresses and quilts that can provide close quarters and comforts even for a large family.
(We had six children down there when our Marinda and family came, for when Jackie and family came– and also when Larissa and her two boys came. One draw-back is that most of the missionary homes have only one bathroom. (In our home, that means an upstairs trek – through the master bedroom – whenever you get the urge or want to shower off some of the Nauvoo sweat.) (Thanks, humidity!)
WHERE TO EAT?
Well, there’s a challenge … Keokuk and Ft. Madison have a plethora of the usual fast-food joints where you can eat. Not so, in Nauvoo, however. Dining space and options are hard to come by. Sister Hunt and I always recommend our favorite Red Front Café (the only place open daily and year round) or Annie’s (seasonal summers).
The Fireside BBQ is really great but a bit pricy. The all-you-can-eat buffet is the dream of everyone (including Sister Hunt and me). The Hotel Nauvoo has been here literally for over 50 years (it was here when I was here in 1975) and is still going strong. I am still waiting for the special occasion that warrants the cost. And of course, there is Casey’s … a great place for pizza – but everyone else in town may have already beat you there … and they may or may not be able to meet your immediate needs.
We love the cost, atmosphere and yummy food of the little Mi Camino Real Mexican place in Ft. Madison. This place is in Illinois, but it is truly a “legit” and great Mexican restaurant.
And shopping? Dollar General is our big supermarket. Surprisingly, they seem to have a bit of everything. We have only been there a couple of times when they didn’t have what we went in search of. There is a Wal-Mart in Keokuk – located about 13 miles south of Nauvoo (along the most beautiful river drive in the world).
HOW LONG SHOULD I STAY IN NAUVOO
Many folks come here with the mistaken idea that they can see the whole place in an hour or two. Wow, is that a mistake! Couples and families with just older teens might be able to squeeze most things into a couple of very full days, but most other families and other serious visitors will want to spent several days. We think that about four days might be the perfect plan. There is just so much to do here … so much fun … so much history … and such a heritage, and so much to do generally … that you will welcome any moment that you can extend your trip for.
So much for all of the logistics. Now let’s get into the fun stuff – the real reasons why folks want to come to Nauvoo …
NOW LET’S SEE WHAT THERE IS TO DO IN OLD NAUVOO
Now that we have all of the logistics taken care of, let’s explore the town a bit. Of course, Sister Hunt and I are here on an 18-month mission. We have total immersion. We have history and fun in us every day – from the tips of our toes to the top of our ears. And it just keeps getting better. We just keep soaking it in and we love every minute of every day.
With our concentrated view, however, we might kind of have blinders on. We are so used to all of this in our daily service opportunities that we might not be able to fully see everything from the viewpoint of the typical guests who come here. So, in light of this, I thought that it would be good to share Nauvoo with you from the view of guests who come here … and specifically through the eyes of my own children and grandchildren who have come to really experience Nauvoo with us. To do this, I will now quote extensively from some of the personal family experiences as they have written and blogged about them. I will actually quote from multiple daughters (no sons have come yet) to help you get the full picture of what is available here. I have also included comments and reactions that the various daughters posted in response to the experiences of their sisters. I know that you will enjoy hearing it straight from them.
THE STORY OF JACKIE AND FAMILY IN NAUVOO
Jackie and family – husband and four “tween” and “teen” children came last summer for several days.
They took the big bird in the sky and got a car rental. Marinda and her big man came with seven children in their BIG BMW this summer and stayed for almost a week. Larissa and her two funny boys came the next week. Her man had a new job so had no vacation time to take. They flew into Quad Cities. They arrived late on a Sunday night and we took them back to the airport four days later. Each of these families stayed with us – and the parents got bigger air mattresses in our small living room as the kids were downstairs in our basement or cellar.
Kaylea and Lana still have a Nauvoo trip on their “bucket lists” for future. Kaylea has to recover from a shoulder surgery before she can come. Keith has a plan to come in September or October but those plans are still forming. Finances are the main issue for all of these children. Our son, Rusty and family have their plane reservations for early October. We look forward to their arrival and good times together in Old Nauvoo.
Many children and grandchildren – from various families – came to visit Kevin and Lou Hunt in Nauvoo.
Jackie and famiily came in the summer of 2024 – our first Nauvoo missionary summer. We had great times with them. That same week, Kaylea’s kids came to Nauvoo with their Texas stake youth group and Jenae’d daughter came with her Young Women group from St. louis.
Above: Jackie’s Nauvoo Photo Gallery
THE STORY OF JENAE AND FAMILY IN NAUVOO
Jenae and Paul and their four kids “brought us to Nauvoo” the summer before our missions – and that certainly made us want to return for more. We rode Amtrak – the train – from our Maricopa town– up through Texas and to their home in St. Louis. We had a unique experience in that we were able to stay in a nice Boy Scout lodge located at Camp Eastman near Nauvoo as we were here together. This worked out well.
We had to clean out the mostly unused (nowadays) lodge but once that was done, the camp made for a wonderful base camp for us.
Jenae wrote some of her thoughts and impressions about Nauvoo:
“Nauvoo the city of beautiful the City of Joesph
We had a trip planned to Nauvoo. It didn’t go quite as planned as we planned to be there a few days with my parents and family,. Tanner was in a play for the summer and they were on their tech week, The show director said Tanner couldn’t miss that whole week. She said, “Can you give me 3 days?” I said, “Can you give me 1…?” so this left us 24 hours in Nauvoo with our family and my mom and dad.
It was a, sweet day arriving in Nauvoo even though we knew we only had two days there…. The city of Nauvoo always brings a peaceful presence as you enter the city. It was sweet too, to do the trip with my parents – after our own family trips, growing up in the Nauvoo pageant and participating in it for two summers …
The city holds so many sweet memories for our family and memories of bringing our kids when younger, Being there with my parents was a gift of time as well.
We toured the city, took in the atmosphere and beauty of Nauvoo and the rich pioneer stories and history. We toured some of the little shops and pioneer historic sites, took several wagon rides, visted the vistors’ center, and attended plays and musicals about Nauvoo with the performing missionaries. It was just a beautiful day
We loved seeing and hearing about places my dad had been to or served in while on his own mission here and things my grandparents had done too on there mission here with the Nauvoo brick yard, Coolidge house and other things. We loved walking the streets of Nauvoo with my parents and hearing the history of these things and our own legacy that is laced in witb Nauvoo and it’s history. Loved riding the carriage and my dad showing us where he lived as a missionary here and other things linked to our own family and grandparents in Nauvoo
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt with Paul and Jenae and family – in front of the brick kiln built by Jenae’s grandpa Elder Everett H. Belcher 1980
We finished the day’s activites in Nauvoo, as the night and evening crept in. We wanted to return to the cabin where we were going to stay which my dad had set up for us. We found out that our car wouldn’t start. This was a challenge as we already dealt with car trouble through the summer with other cars. It took us a bit to get our car working. Then we headed to Walmart to buy food, and things needed for the stay at the cabin. As we came out of Walmart our car again wouldn’t start. This became a challenge as it got later and nothing was open. Finally after hours and trying everything we could, we got the car to start. As we worked on it we prayed whie we worked on it. Finally Katelyn said a prayer with all her faith and I prayed that like the wagon wheels of the pioneers, that God witb fix our Ox, wagon or on this case our car
We finally got it working and made it back to the cabin and set up beds all over the floor with air mattresses,
it was a long night of trying to get the car working. We charged it throughout the night but still didn’t know if it would even start the next morning. We planned to head to the temple with the adults to do a,session in the Nauvoo temple. We were going to have the kids drive over a bit later to meet us lo do Baptisms too. We wanted everyone who could to be in the temple. And we only had a few hours to spend in Nauvoo today as Paul had to head back to O’Fallon, llinois where we lived, so that Tanner could get back for his theater practice,and tech week and Trevor to hils football practice
By a miracle the, car started in the morning. We headed out and made it to the temple even though being a bit behind with everything the night before with the car and setting up the beds, It was a blessing to be able to get to the temple. We did a, session with my parents
It was a beautiful morning at the temple, I loved being in the Nauvoo temple as I remember walking the grounds of the temple when I was 14 and was there with my family in the pageant and there being no temple there but feeling a spiritual presence of a temple,. So it’s been special to see the temple there now and to know the sacrifices of the pioneers who built Nauvoo and the original temple
As I sat in the Nauvoo temple a lady in the session leaned over and whispered, “I am glad you’re here.” She then showed me a butterfly on the art mural… This was a sweet moment and meant a lot to me – showing that Heavenly Father was, aware of me sitting there today.
The kids made it to the temple and it’s, was sweet to meet most of them in the temple for baptisms, Brianna, wasn’t 12 yet so she, wasn’t able to go in to do baptisms, so I was going to go meet the kids outside and go walk around with her, while Paul did baptisms with the other kids, But Paul said, “Jenae you should go today to do baptisms with the kids and I will walk around with Brianna on the temple grounds.”. I was like, “Ok,” but I was sad that Brianna and Paul wouldn’t be with us in the temple… I put on my white dress again and went to meet the other 3 kids and my parents in the baptistry..
It was a beautiful moment as I walked in in my whtre dress and seeing my other 3 kids lined up in there white jumpsuits and my parents by them in their white clothes… It was a beautiful memory and I’m grateful for the morning in the temple and the time in Nauvoo with our family even though we were only there one night and two days with everyone.
Paul did a small sketch outside the temple when out with Brianna that later helped inspire my mom with the idea of a small temple image on the new Nauvoo Temple Brick – that she and my dad later designed. And Brianna took pictures of beautiful flowers on the temple grounds
We took pictures, at the Nauvoo temple with our family and my parents. Then the boys, Paul and Tanner and Trevor had to head out to drive back home 3 hours for Tanners theater and Trevor’s football.
But despite the trial of our car not working or starting last night we were blessed to have a beautiful 2 days in Nauvoo together and at the temple with all our kids> My heart felt so grateful.
I was grateful for time with our family and my parents in Nauvoo
Us girls and my parents toured more of Nauvoo, saw the horses, visited other historic sites and attended more shows and enjoyed the day in Nauvoo.
We went to area by the pageant stage to put stings out to save seats for the performance. It was fun to feel the excitement of the performance atmosphere.
We also walked down the Trail of Tears and read stories of the pioneers, then ended at the river to look st the monuments of Joseph and Brigham.. What took our breath away was the giant lily pads with beautiful giant flowers there at the end of the path or crossing of the pioneers across the river.
We took in the scene and the beauty of the lilies and the flowers… I stood there imagining the pioneers crossing here and the many tears ahead of them and now that same spot of tears turned into something so beautiful… It was as if God took their tears and heartache and created something beautiful out of it… It was a good reminder that He can take our pain and heartache and turn it into to something beautiful.
Then as we left my dad said, “Jenae grab a picture of me and your mom standing at the edge of the river and little pads – with us holding hands looking out over the river then looking back “
.Who knew this would be symbolic for what was ahead and their own call to Nauvoo to serve as missionaries… Seeing the quiet of the lilies and beauty where there once was heartache was one of my favorite things in Nauvoo this trip and being at the temple with my patents and kids despite the car challenges beautiful moments of eternity to remember
We then went to the pioneer carnival [the “Country Fair”] they do before the pageant We loved the pioneer carnival,. We took pioneer photos with the girls and my parents and the girls enjoyed pioneer activites like the May day pole, and wagon pulling. My dad got into – and got a bit hot – as he tried to pull all of us girls in the wagons.
We loved the pageant. It was a beautiful reminder of the story of Nauvoo and that this story is in us and a part of us. It reminded us of being in the pageant when we were teens with my family and that too is part of our story and Nauvoo is a part of our story.. It was a beautiful evening in Nauvoo and the city beautiful and seeing portrayed the story of Nauvoo and also the Temple being bulit by the saints..
Above: A Scene from the Nauvoo Pageant
The next day we visited more sites and the visitors’ center. Katelyn and Grandpa went to the family history library for a while. They enjoyed their time there. We had lunch downtown at the same restaurant as the day before and it was affordable and one of the few places there to eat.
The day was rainy and we wondered if we would be able to watch the pageant tonight. We went to the stage area again to put out a string for saving seats again for the British pagent. It was a, wet and drizzly day. The seats, were soaked and full of water so it didn’t look likely they would still have the pageant tonight…. Throughout the day we asked some sister missionaries if they cancel the pageant. They said, “No they never do – it just always clears up..” And surprisingly it did just before the carnival and pageant.
We had experienced this ourselves years ago when in Nauvoo and in the “City of Joseph” pageant. There was rain and even a tornado warning before a performance but with prayers and faith of the cast and crew it cleared up for us to perform that night. And again we witnessed this tonight in Nauvoo as the rain cleared up for the performance… Brianna was so surprised and delighted she said, “Well I guess Nauvoo is a place of miracles …”
Also while at the pioneer carnival that night Paul called from home and said we just got news that Katelyn got a grant – saying that some military education money had come through for her schooling. We had submitted it twice and were still waiting and praying it weould go through as she was to head to school in a few weeks. This, was another blessing and miracle in Nauvoo. We were so grateful
I love the big flags of different countries – that they have come out before the performance. They had the, Welsh flag – which is from Wales where I served my mission, I loved seeing the flag bearers run on with the flags into the pageant – symboling the gospel going to all the world. Then the missionaries from all over Nauvoo coming up with lights that started on the stage and went out into the audience as they ran out with their lights. Then the missionaries came up on stage to sing as the pageant ended. Little did we know then that later my parents would be called to Nauvoo themselves on their own mission. We were all renewed in our own faith and journey and knowing how the “truth will prevail” as it says in the Pageant as they lift a big banner up with these words.
We all felt the spirit of Nauvoo and the pioneers and the truthfulness of God’s plan, His gospel, the history and legacy of the pioneers. Their story is ours as it says in the pageant. And it’s our story… It’s in us … it’s our story. We also talked of the image of seeing all of my siblings and their families each coming to Nauvoo one day with my parents. We didn’t know they would serve a mission here and many of the families would come to walk Nauvoo and be here with my parents in this city. It was beautiful feeling the legacy of Nauvoo. I know we felt it and it is real.
By Jenae Merrill thoughts and reflections of Nauvoo trip
MARINDA WROTE OF HER NAUVOO EXPERIENCE:
“It has been an incredible stay! Dad and Mom have been such amazing guides. We have seen way more than what we could have on our own.
Above: Marinda and Mike and their children arrive in Nauvoo in their “BMW”
The biggest thing I have loved is that it is a place centered around families! It is beautiful to see how happy and kind everyone is to our big family. Everyone is so happy and smiling so big. It really is the City of Beautiful!
I hope everyone can come and visit! It is such a special place. Thanks mom and dad for passing on your love of Nauvoo, our pioneer heritage, and testimonies of this restored gospel.”
Above: Marinda’s Nauvoo Photo Gallery
JENAE RESPONDED ABOUT MARINDA’S TRIP
“This is so special Marinda! I am so glad your family gets to be there while mom and dad are there. What a special time! We loved our time with mom and dad in Nauvoo even though we went with them before their missions. It was still so special. it’s such a beautiful place to be. The Spirit there is so peaceful and it feels like home.”
MARINDA WROTE OF HER BRITISH PAGEANT EXPERIENCE:
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt (Center) singing with fellow missionaries in the Nauvoo British Pageant finale
“Oh my goodness this was so, so, so beautiful! All the missionaries got up and sang “Called to Serve”. I was so proud to be Mom and dad’s daughter! I am so proud of them for serving and sharing their testimonies with so many people. I am so thankful for the legacy they have carried on from their families and have passed down to us.”
JENAE WROTE AGAIN:
“This is so awesome. When we were there with mom and dad they were in the audience with us, so that’s so cool they were now up there singing with the missionaries. We didn’t think about that back then. The Spirit is so strong in Nauvoo. It helps us feel God’s plan, who we are, and our story too. Love this.
“That’s fun to see your kids at the pioneer carnival. They do such a fun job for families. I love that everything is free and there is so much for families to do – with the shows, the carnivals, the wagon rides, and the history sites.
Sweet to see your kids there Marinda. I love it… But that hallway to the basement [with Mike]. So funny. Looks so tiny with Mike in there. Haha”
MARINDA CONTINUES:
“My Snow College roommate, Tiffany, drove four hours to come hang out with us. It was so fun having her family here.”
LARISSA RESPONDED:
“Aww … looks like such a fun time. That’s awesome that they have all those activities in the park for families. I’m so excited to go there in a few days.”
MARINDA AGAIN WROTE:
“I love this picture so much! I love seeing dad’s huge smile showing the kids doing all of the fun stuff.”
KAYLEA ADDED TO THE CONVERSATION:
“Mom and Dad look so happy having y’all there!! I love all these pictures. Everyone looks so happy and looks like they are having the best time!! I love all the activities there are for the kids. And so fun you got to see Mom and Dad perform and sing. Sounds amazing!! Proud they are my parents too!!”
LARISSA SHARED HER PLANS:
“Yeah, me and the kids are going from the evening of the 13th to the evening of the 17th. It will be so fun. Found a pretty good deal for the three of us to fly there on Allegiant, which flies to Moline, Illinois … two hours from Nauvoo. Just got the tickets a week ago. Ha, Ha!
Hopefully the kids do good on the flights. The flight home leaves at 9 pm and is a three hour flight plus the two hours to get to the airport and the hour drive from the Mesa gateway airport to home.. I hope the kids just sleep the whole time. Haha! Then our flight to get there leaves at 3 pm and gets there a little after 8 pm. I got a couple fun activities for them so hopefully that keeps them entertained.
[Note: Sister Hunt and I brought our nine children to Nauvoo in 1996 and 1997 and we participated in the “City of Joseph” pageant. We came on Amtrak for that trip … and that is an adventure for another time.”
Above: The Kevin and Lou Hunt family in the opening scene of the 1996 and 1997 pageants
Marinda sent a plethora of photos – but with no comments.
Among the photos that Marinda sent was one that she staged with her and two of her daughters.
Sister Hunt (Lou) was in a “City of Joseph” scene depicting one of the women’s statues. She had Larissa in her arms and Marinda trailing olong behind her. Marinda re-enacted this scene with her own children.
One of her sisters responded: The statue picture is fun of you Marinda and your girls. I love the picture dad found of us doing that pose too. That’s awesome.
Above: Lou Hunt in the “City of Joseph” white “statue scene” with Larissa in arms followed by Marinda
Note: When we were in the ancient pageant, our family took a classic photo on a bridge near the stage. Our kids came running from this bridge when we had the opening scene. Our photo then showed the children in descending age order going down the bridge. Now when any of the family members come to visit, we reenact this scene with each of them.
Above: A scrapbook page that Jackie created about our “City of Joseph” tours. Note her family shown “on the bridge”.
Above: (Top) Jenae and (bottom) Marinda and family doing the bridge scene
And of course, Larissa also needed to reenact the scene – even though she was too young to remember her own participation on the bridge.
JACKIE GOT A FLASHBACK MEMORY:
When Jackie was in Nauvoo, we happened to find some folks who were in the 1996/7 pageants with us. These folks caught us examining the “new stage” for evidence of the “old stage” (where we performed). If one looks hard, threre are still some hints of the old stage. Anyway,, the ladies began reminiscing big time. And before they knew it, they were up on stage together dancing the famous “City ofJoseph” dance that opened the show. And I don’t think that they missed a step – even after all of that time! (We have to admit that the dance is/was pretty unforgettable!)
MARINDA CONTINUES HER STORY
Another fun day!!! The fair activities and the band are here until August 2nd. It really makes each night come alive.
Fairy gardens, the kids dancing like the missionaries, Joseph Smith’s mirror and journal, and looking for fireflies.
Mom and dad did so good today while we toured Joseph and Emma’s different houses. They seriously just presented it so well.
MARINDA SHARE SOME TRIP HINTS WITH LARISSA:
“It is super humid and really hot during the day. Bring little fans to help cool you off. I have never felt so sticky, smelly, and eaten by mosquitoes. Haha!! Bring bug spray. Just adding some little tips for those that are planning to come.
It has been another amazing day!!!!! Seriously just love this place so much!”
Above: Kevin and Lou with Marinda’s children
KAYLEA WISHES SHE WERE HERE:
“Sounds magical!!!! How fun!!!! I can’t wait to go!! I may miss all the fun though if the band is home by the 2nd. Reliving old memories!” [Note: The band and the “summer cast” of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries did leave on August 2nd – but the “fall cast” of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries will still be here performing through the middle of October!]
Note: We don’t really remember where we got the name of Marinda but for years, when I heard a name that I liked, I added it to a “potential names for future children” list. Perhaps I heard the name of Marinda when I served in my young mission to Nauvoo. Through the years, Marinda has never heard of anyone with whom she shared the Marinda name. So, when she got to Nauvoo, she was pleased to see the Orson Hyde home – and to learn that his wife was Marinda. Our Marinda was fascinated with the Marinda home, her name on the Relief Society quilt and even found one of the Nauvoo custume dresses that has the Marinda name. Marinda Hyde was a seamstress so could have designed dresses like these.
MARINDA TELLS IT IN HER OWN WORDS:
“We went and saw the horses, toured the sewing room/mail room. (And they have a [dress pattern named the “Marinda dress), lots of tours, went to the Marinda Hyde house (was I named for her?)
Above: Marinda and the “Marinda Dress” in the Sewing Room
Above: Marinda at the Marinda Hyde Home
And then we went to the stone-cutter’s tour. So much to see and do!
Above: Mike and kids at the Stone Cutter Lodge
Above: Marinda and family on the “Carriage Ride” (Note Grant – left below)
Grant’s expression on the wagon ride was so great – says it all!. He was all grumpy. He represented all of the kids being grumpy because it was hot and they were all tired. It was so hot and humid. Each day we had to take a break inside for a bit.” It was nice to have Dad and Mom’s house to relax, cool off, and eat in.
I ALSO WROTE ON THE FAMIIY SITE AS MARINDA WAS LEAVING:
“So fun to have had Marinda and family here. They are an amazing family and it was fun to see them work and play together and they love each other. Fun to see them in action. We shared many great activities together. So great!”
MARINDA RESPONDED:
“Thanks Dad and Mom. It was an amazing week. We love you guys! After 17.5 hours of driving today, we made it home!!!”
LARISSA ARRIVED IN NAUVOO:
Larissa made it to Nauvoo with her boys and she made frequent photo and description posts on the family site:
Larissa warned us: “Here comes a picture overload. Haha! I will share more tomorrow but we packed a lot in today and had a fun day. We went to the horse corrals this morning to see the horses cross the street to the other corral to go eat. It was fun watching them and seeing the men get all the horses gear on to get ready for wagon rides.
Andy enjoyed the barn cat named Richard.
All the horses know their names and the Teamsters call each of their names one by one to let them into the corral to eat and they know exactly where their eating spot is. F.Y.I: They only have male horse and male oxen.
Two of the Teamsters were taking one of the wagons to the area where they do the wagon rides and since we were standing right by the wagon, the Teamsters asked us if we wanted to ride down the road with them. That was fun. Dad drove the car down there while the rest of rode on the wagon. Dad was waiting for us there by another wagon when we got there.
Then the kids wanted corn on the cob for breakfast. We were talking about it either this morning or last night so it was on their minds and mom already had some cooked that was in the fridge. Haha.
Then we went to the Scovil Bakery tour and they give guests a gingerbread cookie at the end of the tour.
Above: Sister Tammy Hunt giving a tour at the Scovil Bakery
Then we went on our scheduled wagon ride which goes through the town and they explain what each building is as you drive by it. Then we went on a different wagon ride [the “Carriage Ride”] that takes you through the a different area [up through the woods] and they told several stories of some of the pioneers.
Then we went to where the parade was going to be with the marching band. We joined the parade. We walked down Main Street.
We went on a ride pulled by the oxen (above).
We also went to the visitors’ center and watched a short film about the saints settling in Nauvoo. It was fun to see the temple model in the visitors’ center and the carved sunstone that was on the top of the temple.
Tuesday, Mom and I went to the 7 am session at the temple. Thanks to dad for watching my kids. The Nauvoo Temple was so amazing and beautiful. Such an awesome experience.
After lunch we went to the fudge shop for a treat and I got a little souvenir for the kids. Then we did a tour at the Lyon drug store where they would sell medicine, spices, fabric, yarn, etc.
Another fun day and we packed it in all day today.
The kids learned how to make a rope today, made candles, learned how to make a barrel, learned how bricks are made. We had fun making barrels with Grandpa.
Above: Elder Hunt teaching grandsons the trade of barrel making
They had fun putting all the “luggage” in the rectangle area as if they were putting it all in the wagon.
Andy was wearing the rope he helped make on his head. Haha
I checked out the sewing room while dad took the kids to save seats (with a string) for the pageant.
The kids had a great time playing several pioneer games at the Pioneer Pastime area.
We went back to Mom and dad’s house for a break.
Grandma (Mom) told us how her father – my Grandpa Belcher helped save the Coolidge house, the white one [with the German writing and which is right across the street from mom and dad’s housel I got a picture of mom in between the Coolidge house and their Dunn home.
Like all of the sibllngs, we got a photo at Grandpa Belcher’s brick yard:
Above: Jackie and family with Dad and Mom at the Belcher Brick Yard
Above: Jenae and famiy at the Belcher Brick Yard
Marinda and clan at the brick yard
And also llike all of the siblings, we got a photo at the Lucy Mack Smith home where our grandparents served on their mission.
Above: Jackie and family at the Lucy Mack Smith home
Above: Larisssa and family at the Lucy Mack Smith home
We toured the boot shop and learned how they made shoes.
We toured the little school. The kids had fun there drawing on the chalkboards. Pretty interesting that they spelled words phonetically. Andy wrote his name then the sister missionary spelled it phonetically. Andy was being so funny and “wrote” the sister’s name which was a bunch of random letters. We asked him what it said and he said, “That’s how you spell her name (the sister missionary) in 1846 “. It was pretty funny that he was so spot on with the date. Haha!
We also went to the brickyard as well. The clay gets mixed up in this big mixer and then they press the clay into some molds.
The pageant was fun to watch. Andy was asking lots of questions about Joseph Smith during it and was fascinated with him so it was cool we got to go up front and “meet” him after the performance.
Yesterday we went to Carthage Jail. It was so cool/sad seeing that and it just made all the stories of Joseph feel more real – standing in the room where Joseph and Hyrum were shot. Pretty crazy! While we were in that room the sister missionaries played the song, “A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief” and I could feel the Spirit so strong listening to it and thinking about what they went through in that moment. It was cool to see the bullet hole in the door when Hyrum was shot. Then Joseph was shot and fell out the top window and fell down by the well where we were standing.
Above: Larissa and Andy in the “Martyrdom Room” and then at the well below the window where Joseph fell.
We went to the “Women’s Garden”. We took a “boy version” by the statue with the mom holding the baby and the daughter behind her. When we were in the “City of Joseph Pageant years ago, Mom played the role of that statue mom and Marinda and I were in the scene with her. I tried to make a heart for the picture but I was too tall. Haha
We also got a photo of the mom and her son …
We went down to the river and I got a good video of the eagles nest with the eagles flying above it. We got some great sunset photos too.
KAYLEA IS AMAZED AT ALL OF THE GREAT FUN AND PHOTOS IN NAUVOO:
“I loved all the pictures and videos Larissa!!! Soooo fun to watch them all. Looks like your kids are having so much fun. I love all the activities they have for the kids. What a great place to visit!! I loved watching them race in the sack.
Oliver was so fast! And cool to see Mom and Dad showing the Brick making process. The eagle flying was soooo cool!! Wow.
LARISSA CONTINUES HER STORY:
Mom and Dad were at the Sarah Granger Kimball home today (Wednesday) so we dropped them off and did the tour with them before heading off on our day. Andy was pretty grumpy, during the tour but it was fun to hear mom and dad giving the tour.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt in front of Sarah Granger Kimball Home
Tonight we went to the “Sunset on the Mississippi” production by the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries. The kids went up with the band and played an instrument.
LARISSA WROTE TO LANA:
“Lana & Spencer do these people look familiar? [Lana’s step-father in law] Haha! I thought he looked familiar. Haha! They are in the Browning Gun Shop tour with us right now.”
Above: Larissa with Delwin – father to Spencer
MARINDA REFLECTS:
“I am always amazed at how small the world is when it comes to connections.”
LARISSA AGREES:
“Katelyn will recognize this sister missionary who took us on a tour. She served with Katelyn when on her “outbound” mission in Colorado. She wasn’t her companion but they would see each other sometimes.
A couple days ago we toured the Bakery and the lady giving the tour was one of the other Sister Hunts who is serving here.
Above: Sister Tammy Hunt giving tour at Scovil Bakery
She just loved Andy and Oliver and was laughing at everything they were saying during the tour. She asked what the big wooden paddle by the brick oven was used for. Andy said it is for pizza. Haha! It does look like what you would use to put pizza in a brick oven. He said that it was used for pizza a couple times. Earlier that day Oliver was saying that he had a 4 year old brain because he is 4 years old and Andy was saying he had a 100 year old brain and we were telling Sister Hunt at the bakery. Towards the end of the tour Oliver said, “Ughh, is it done yet?” Haha! They were saying some other stuff as well that I can’t remember.
The next day when Sister Hunt saw us again she said she had some stickers for the boys because she didn’t have them with her the day before. She was really excited to give them one but they weren’t too impressed with the ones she had because they weren’t snakes. Haha!
Above: Sister Tammy Hunt with Andy and Olliver
This is her trying to give them a sticker and they just kept saying no because they weren’t snake ones. Haha”
We also saw her on our wagon ride yesterday and we waved to her and she waved back and blew a kiss. Andy and Oliver made a card to give to her. He drew her a snake on it. Haha! The other side is her and him hugging. I didn’t realize she would be leaving today to be out of town for a bit so we weren’t able to give it to her today. Andy was bummed about that. She later told me that the boys were the highlight of her week. So cute. KAYLEA REFLECTS AGAIN ON THE NAUVOO FUN:
“Oh my gosh!!! That’s adorable, Larissa!!! I love the notes they wrote to her!!! Maybe you can do a video call when mom and dad give them to her. So Cute. Your kids say the CUTEST things!!!
Crazy you saw Spencers Dad and step mom! And a sister that knew Katelyn!! Crazy!!
BACK TO LARISSA:
Mom has Sister Hunt’s number so she called her this morning to see where they were giving tours and she said they were headed out of town but we talked to her for a few minutes. I also sent her those pictures of their cards and explained what was on the cards. Oliver mostly scribbled on his, but on the back of the card which I didn’t get a picture of was three kind of straight lines and those were snakes too. Ha, Ha!
JENAE REMEMBERING THE NAUVOO GOOD TIMES:
“Marinda I loved all your sweet experiences in Nauvoo and all the photos of your family there. That’s so fun.
And Larissa I love seeing you guys there and all the cute things with your kids and mom and dad and Nauvoo. So fun! Dad and mom look so excited to have some of their grandkids there to see them in Nauvoo. What a special time for you all. I love all the videos and cute pictures and the bakery story that’s cute. Haha!
LARISSA CONTINUES:
We went back to the Pioneer games place. The reality of trying to get one picture with the kids in costumes was a challenge. Andy was not having it. Haha! He kept covering his face with the hat and taking his hands out of the end of the sleeves. The shirt was too big for him. Hope you enjoy the bloopers.
KAYLEA RESPONDS:
“Ya’ll look so cute in pioneer clothes!”
BACK TO LARISSA:
This is the best picture we got. Haha. The top green piece kept coming off since it wasn’t held on by anything. Haha.
We went to the Zion’s Mercantile store. I got some souvenir pennies with the Nauvoo Temple on them.
On our last day, we went again for cookies from the Scovil Bakery. I asked the kids what they wanted to do again today on our last day here and they wanted to get another cookie.
We did a couple of wagon rides on Monday and the kids wanted to do it again yesterday and today they wanted to go again one last time. Haha!
Here are some cool pictures I got of the horses today. I love the color of these horses. So pretty. Their wavy hair is cool too.
Oliver bent way down and looked at the horse. He said, “I can see the hooves. That’s why his down like that. Haha
Check out this huge flower!
We went to the gun shop this morning. The kids were restless for the tour but Andy did like seeing all the guns.
We toured the Stoddard Tin Shop today.
We also did the Temple City tour this morning because mom and dad were giving tours at this place today. It was fun to see pictures of the temple plans. The purple pineapple walls in one of the houses was fun too. The pineapples represent wealth. It was cool to see a fancier house. That piece of furniture with the big blue square at the top is a piano and it also looks fancy.
The kids enjoyed the stone cutter part of that Temple City tour. They got to see the limestone, chisel it, check out the sand paper which is some sand put on a rock then you rub two rock together with the sand in the middle, and trying to pull the heavy limestone.
Above: Sister Hunt and Andy try to lift the heavy Temple stone with the block and tackle.
We went to the William Gheen home the man, Brother Gheen died in his home and the funeral was in his home. That is a coffin by dad.”
LARISSA APOLOGIZES AND THAN REFLECTS UPON THEIR EXPERIENCES:
“Sorry for all the overload of pictures and videos from the last few days. Glad you enjoyed all of them. We are on our way to the airport now. Our plane leaves at 9 pm. Looks like we will get back to Arizona around 7:45 PM (Arizona time) so hopefully that will give us enough time to check our bags and get through security. Haha.
I will second what Marinda said after her trip, if you haven’t come to Nauvoo you should really see if you can make it work to come – especially when the pageants, band, and the performing missionaries are there because it is such an amazing place and has such a special spirit there. Take advantage of mom and dad being there when you have a place to stay and being able to see them in action. Standing in the places Joesph Smith stood and the rest of the saints was truly amazing. Then seeing how much they sacrificed and everything they had to make on their own and carry with them was so cool and just really makes all the stories of them come to life.
Andy was really fascinated with Joseph Smith – especially during the Nauvoo pageant. He was asking mom many questions about him through the whole performance. I hope he will always remember what he learned there. It was so fun to see it all through their eyes and seeing them do all the fun activities.
Above: Andy and Oliver meeting the Joseph Smith character
We saw the Joseph and Emma Smith properties yesterday. This was the first home Joseph and Emma lived in while in Nauvoo.
We also saw the Smith Family cemetery.
Then we toured the red brick store where Joseph worked. Joseph Smith had an office upstairs where he received a lot of revelation for different things. It was cool to see that.
Above: Larissa and boys at Joseph’s Red Brick Store
Then we toured the blacksmith and wainwright shops. There they did a demonstration where they showed how to make a horseshoe and made us a mini one. Each family got to take one home. It was interesting to hear how they made the wagon/wagon wheels in the wainwright section of the tour.
We also toured the printing shop yesterday and learned how they had to place the letters, put ink on the printing press and getting the printing onto the paper.
We even found a dinosaur in Nauvoo. Haha! This dinosaur Noah and the Ark museum just opened up a month or two ago. Someone in Nauvoo told us about it. We didn’t have time to go through the tour but did see the room with the big Dino head and took a picture with the Dinosaur outside.”
KAYLEA AGAIN WISHING SHE WAS HERE IN NAUVOO:
“I love this!!! I wish we could come before the pageant is over and the band leaves. It’s sad we can’t come till later in August. We were tempted to drive there this last Tuesday. If we had had the money we would have. We’ll have to wait till August when we have some cash coming in. And hopefully I’ll be kind of recovered from surgery and be able to have a more enjoyable time.
LARISSA WITH TIME AT THE AIRPORT:
“Today I decided to go to a short performance called “Sisters in Zion”. It was so beautiful. The performing missionaries did such an amazing job. They sang “As Sisters in Zion,” “Amazing Grace” and more of the “Sisters in Zion” song and in between the songs they each had talking parts. Three of them told a story of a pioneer in first person viewpoints. They did it so beautifully. Their singing sounded like angels or something. It was amazing to experience. I just felt the Spirit so strong and their voices just filled the whole room in the small Cultural Hall there. The kids were entertained with my calculator on my phone and my watch while I listened . I am so glad I went to it. It was one of my favorite things to experience in Nauvoo. It was cool to hear the stories of some the sisters of the time and all they went through.
The room was very full so we sat on the side bench on the other side of the aisle. There were still a few people coming in so I put both my kids on my lap instead of just Oliver to free up one more space. A lady came in and I pointed that she could sit by us. She seemed happy that there was a seat for her. I said, “You can sit there as long as you don’t mind my kids.” And she said she didn’t mind and that she was a mom too. She said she was only there for the day and wouldn’t be there tonight to see the pageant so she wanted to come to some kind of performance. Her kids were off with their dad at a different location. I was tearing up during the performance and at the end I looked over at her and she had tears coming down her cheeks. I gave her a hug and said she was doing a good job and that it was nice to meet her.”
MARINDA AND KAYLEA COMMENT:
“I am so excited you guys got to go! It looks like you are having a blast!”
Kaylea:
“That’s awesome Larissa!! Sounds amazing!! That’s sweet about your interaction with that lady. You’re very sweet.:
WHEW! MADE IT HOME!
“We made it home at 1:40 AM Nauvoo time, 11:40 PM here. I am so tired. Haha! Packed a lot in while we were there. Thanks mom and dad. It was so fun!”
JENAE – WRITTEN ON THE 24TH OF JULY:
Happy pioneer day mom and dad. Love you both so much – You’re loved. I love the faith, and legacy and how you have shared your own modern pioneer missionary journey with us every day in Nauvoo. Love you both”
After her sisters made their Nauvoo trip, Jenae shared some of her own “cliff” notes and memories of her Nauvoo trip:
Wagon building everyone that could help, would help
Everyone did something there, was something for everyone to do
Lucy Mack Smith home kitchen was the heart of her home. She loved her kitchen space for gathering family and guests all were welcome.
Sunset on the Mississippi play
Their story is our, story and lives on in us,
The pioneers were driven from their homes, with an unknown future
Sister Crockett
It’s, always a beautiful day in Nauvoo
Paul’s car not working… Katelyn prayed – still took a bit after prayer, I prayed that like the pioneers with their, wagon wheels breaking, I was praying over my, wagons… God would hear our prayer and answer the kids prayer to have car working…. Starting working about a few hours.
…. Thoughts after the trial of our faith comes the blessings
When Saints were driven out if Nauvoo… They prayed Heavenly would remember their sacrifice
Joseph Smith… I know he loved us… Joseph Smith: “If I never return remember I love you,” Joseph was patient, kind and genuine
Salvation cannot come without revelation
A religion that does not require sacrifice is not sufficient
Pageant
Live so the angels can’t be restrained
Nothing could erase what Nauvoo did for the Saints – the spirit of the saints, their legacy had been built in Nauvoo
In the darkness comes, a light
The story of Nauvoo, the story of God’s story
Trail of Hope… Stories: “The Last thing I did was to tidy up rooms, swept floors, shut door and faced an un known future”
Faith in Christ they would go where life was good and God took them
Kids area pioneer pastimes
On wagon ride song came to mind you don’t have to push a hand cart to be a pioneer
When Joseph left to be murdered he said to Hyrum “Well this is the loveliest city on the earth with the loveliest people you will ever meet”
Letters of Emma and Joseph
They were often apart but tackled challenges together
Quote in play reminded me of Paul and I through letters on our mission and time, apart with military assignments we have had, worked through challenges together even when apart
Together in there letters though apart in challenges
Though they were often separate with their circumstances but were, always one in heart.
And thinking back … Raining all day in Nauvoo on the day we were going to go to pageant we asked will they still have the pageant… Yes it is never canceled it just clears up… Even when we were at the “City of Joseph” pageant years ago with thunderstorms and a tornado worming it was not canceled…. Super rainy then cleared up just before the pageant performance ..
Brianna after seeing the rain clear up as the pageant stated…. She said wow I guess Nauvoo is a place of miracles
Words, from Pageant
We honor the seekers of truth as, we are, seekers of truth
In the youth the flames burn bright
British pageant
Rather be a part of something that matters then something that doesn’t
We must give up things that are good for the cause of Christ
Older couple in cast said, “Will you travel to Nauvoo with me if it’s, a, step to heaven then yes … and then “I did change I let the light in.”
We all have times of darkness
As a, seed won’t grow if not planted …
This is our story still bring written
We come from St Louis to Chicago
We are in the picture, it’s our story. It’s God story
JACKIE LATER WROTE PASSIONATELY OF HER NAUVOO MEMORIES:
Jackie also had opportunity to reflect on her trip to Nauvoo and this beautiful sacred place. Her words are inspiring and joyful in the Nauvoo Spirit:
We had been planning on going to Nauvoo for years and were saving money so that we could. It was just an added perk to have my parents serving there at the same time. We started in Ohio and were thrilled to be able to go into the newly acquired Kirkland Temple. We felt the spirit strongly there and at the John Johnson farm where wonderful powerful experiences happened. We were even more excited to continue on to Nauvoo to see my parents and experience everything there.
What a remarkable, unforgettable experience as a family. There were wonderful shows and performances; bagpipe and brass bands parading down the street to create this special feeling. With all the service missionaries walking around town you could almost envision life in the 1800’s. The spirit of Nauvoo is just a sweet feeling. The stories you learn about are real people and many of them ancestors.
The pageants and pre-show carnival just gave a family friendly atmosphere of good wholesome fun. The kids loved unplugging and playing pioneer games. And of course we learned more about the pioneers with every tour, movie, or show.
My most favorite memory was walking back up Parley Street alone with my youngest son. He was recounting everything that we had learned over the last week. He was most excited about Carthage and recounting everything that transpired there. In his little head he was just trying to process everything that we had experienced. He felt the need to express himself and requested art materials. When we got home, I made sure he had the needed art materials to create his masterpiece. He worked so hard on it. He wanted to display the pioneers fleeing Nauvoo in the middle of winter. He painted snow in his painting but because it was a white canvas the snow can not be seen. He told us when he finished his painting that it “is not what you see, but what you feel” referring to the snow in his painting.
But that would sum up our trip to Nauvoo. It’s not what you see (and there is much to see in Nauvoo) but it is what you feel. You just can’t help but feel something special as you walk the streets of Old Nauvoo, picturing life as it was. I feel like another sweet moment of Nauvoo, is when my, now missionary daughter, testifies a sweet testimony of Joseph Smith because she was there and felt the spirit of Nauvoo.
MY OWN REFLECTIONS:
Old Nauvoo … What a great place. The Spirit is so strong here. It is truly amazing. Everyone who comes here can feel that strong Spirit. And once here, we all want to share our memories and feelings of the Lord’s sacred spot. And once Nauvoo is experienced, most folks want to experience it again and again. It’s a feeling … and it it is true!
FAITH … SACRIFICE … COMMITMENT … LEGACY … PIONEERS OUR OWN ANCESTORS … PROPHETS WALKED HERE … THE LORD IS HERE IN HIS HOLY PLACE.
If you have not had the Nauvoo experience, maybe it is time that you come.
Well, winter seems to be upon us – although it won’t officially hit until December 21st. That is just days away. But even as the temperatures dip and the thermometer freezes, we continue to be joyful, even in winter days. There is much joy around us.
A MONDAY MORNING SURPRISE!
We have an upstairs bathroom with a nice window. I generally keep the curtain closed – for obvious reasons, but on this particular Monday (December 2nd) I took a peek outside for some reason. And there was a surprise before my eyes. The whole world was covered in white stuff. SNOW … Glorious SNOW!
Now for most of the world, the scene would not come as a shock, but for this Arizona Desert Rat, it was definitely an eye-opener. We lived for five years in Ogden, Utah when we were first married and we had the white stuff there. And I still have bad memories of sliding on the ice as I tried to shovel the stairs to our upstairs apartment. That was at the end of the year. And being the health stoic I am (and I think most men are), I thought I could “man-up” and endure the knee pain. I thought that it would go away with time. It didn’t!
I say end of the year … I should have gone to the emergency room immediately – still in that calendar year for the insurance deductible (which I had met). But, I didn’t. The pain increased and I knew that I had a problem. Finally a few days later – in the new deductible year – I made a trip to see the Doc. The X-ray and the examination were not positive.
The doctor said that I had broken my knee cap (with a hairline fracture). He said, he should have re-broken it and whatever, but said too, that this would be inhumane torture. He instructed me thus: “You are to treat the leg as if it is an egg in your shoe. You can’t do anything on it for at least a month … (and he went on and on as he painted the vision of what might be if I didn’t listen to him).
And should I mention the accident I had on Halloween – yes, my birthday – once in Ogden? We were going down a steep hill near us and I was going 10 MPH or less. The car decided to careen sideways and we were really on a slippery slope heading down hill and there wasn’t anything that I could do about it. Talk about Christmas “visions of sugar plums” – my memories were the opposite of that – like dried prunes – as I thought of the situation.
Kevin and Lou Hunt – Snowmobiling in West Yellowstone circa 1980
Admittedly, there were some snow high adventure moments – like snowmobiling in West Yellowstone with Explorer Scouts when the windchill factor made the temperature minus 51 degrees.
And here is my story about that experience (cut and paste):
And then there was the time that I went with a small team – with all of us on snowmobiles to our Camp Bartlett in Southern Idaho. We spent the day shoveling 5-6’ of snow off of the new lodge roof. Those were fun times (?) and stories that are definitely much better now that they are history.
Camp Bartlett snow removal from the new lodge roof – 1982
So, with all of those experiences, that Monday morning white stuff put new visions of bad into my mind. As soon as I was done in there, I guided Sister Hunt to the window. I said, “Check this out!” She was in shock but she was more happy than shocked. She grew up in Utah and they had plenty of snow. But it has definitely been a while for her. (We moved away from Ogden in 1982- moving to Santa Barbara, California – and later to Arizona – and have hardly seen any snow since. We definitely get zero snow in our Arizona desert.).
When we were first married, we often went to Arizona for Christmas days. She said to me at the time, “How do you have Christmas without snow?” I said, “You just enjoy every moment of it!” Now all of these years later, she’s “a BELIEVER!”
Not wanting more of my ice experience of yesteryear, I hesitatingly headed outside that morning to clear the new white stuff off of our stairs. Thankfully, we have only three steps up to our place – not a full flight. I checked out my resources for snow removal. I found one snow shovel – outside by the steps – and this looked and scooped like it had been left from the war. In fact, I think it was a leftover from Simeon Dunn (the 1840’s resident of our place). It was really warped – into a round loop (which should have been square) and the wooden handle broke in two as I began the job. I deposited all of the parts into our garbage can.
Gratefully, there was a much more modern implement stowed away in the basement. This worked much better. I got the stops and the 10’ concrete walk scraped off. It seemed as if there was snow still on the cement – but later, when the sun hit it, the walk and stairs were clear.
Sister Lou Hunt experiencing the new Nauvoo snow 12/2/24
This little surprise made its appearance on Monday, December 2nd. Since that time, the weather has been clear and cold.
Ice crystals on Hunt back door window
TO VENTURE OUT OR STAY IN?
That Monday happened to be our new P-Day for December. We could have gone into hibernation mode or we could make our usual trek for groceries and stuff in Keokuk. I was sure that Sister Hunt would say that we needed to remain inside for the duration. And I wondered if that might be a 5-month duration. To my surprise, she didn’t balk at all about the town trip. We decided to go ahead and go for it. Lou just wanted to leave early rather than later. This was okay with me. We proceeded with caution. We were greeted with a snow plow on the main highway #96 as we headed south. We made the trip okay.
On the road – Nauvoo to Keokuk 12/2/24
We went to Keokuk and did our things there. And we were pleased on the return trip a couple of hours later, when the road was actually mostly clear. This made for a much safer drive.
LIFE CONTINUES EVEN WITH THREAT OF BAD WEATHER
It is interesting that life seems to go on around us – even with the winter chill upon us. The weather doesn’t seem to stop or even slow down the activity level. And I guess that is good. We “layer up” to survive the walk to the car and going inside to our destinations – and then try to decide inside if we should remove a couple of layers or just be warm while inside – and then to be colder when we go outside again. It is a dilemma!
It is interesting that even in the cold, we can have an occasional day that is much warmer and even pleasant. And with many activities still happening, we can still experience joy around us.
THE WINTER CONCIERGE PLAN FOR TOURS
I have written previously with details about our winter concierge schedule. There are definitely fewer guests around Nauvoo these days. Some days it looks like an Arizona ghost town. It is almost spooky at times!
This means that we get up and get prepared for a day of service – being “on call” to serve when needed. I usually get into my costume, but Sister Hunt waits to put on all of the pantaloons and stuff until we actually get the call to go. (She puts on the dash after we get the phone call.)
It also means that we often have full days at home and this gives us time and opportunity to work on our own projects. Of course, I always have plenty to do – with blogs, researching history, compiling books, and more. Last week, we had 5 straight days in which we received no call at all. Our first tour of the week was on Saturday afternoon.
I used the time to finalize the production of the brick slide show. I worked extensively on a family project (to be revealed later). The time was productive indeed for me.
NAUVOO MIRACLES CONTINUE
I’ve also talked before about how we often see a constant flow of “Nauvoo Miracles”. These often come with the many people whom the Lord sends to us – and our connections with them.
We had two different families come – by the name of Richards. With the first family, we were called to meet the group at the Visitors’ Center. They introduced themselves as the Richards family. We asked them what they wanted to see on our tour. I said, “Have you seen the Willard Richards home?” They said, “The desk Elder told us that there is nothing Richards here.”
I said, “That is not true! There are several Richards things to see here.” I told them of the Willard Richards Inn (a bed and breakfast outfit) and the grave of Jenetta Richards (the wife of Willard). I asked if they wanted to go by the place. I drove to the place and they followed me over there. They stopped and took a few photos. I then led them around the corner to the secluded gravesite (adjacent to Highway #96) of Jenetta. The family was all amazed and they took some photos of themselves at the site.
I told the family that it was a little Nauvoo Miracle that we had been brought together as a group. I told them that I was likely the only missionary who knew about the grave and was thus paired with them (by coincidence or the Spirit) to be with them. We all basked and rejoiced in that thought.
In the conversation, I learned that the wife of the younger couple is a descendant of Hyrum Smith. She asked if there was anything to see of Hyrum. I surprised her as I told her that his farm home – located a couple of miles east of town – is still standing. (I told her that the house has been added to on both sides – but that the original home can still be seen). I led their procession over to the Hyrum home.
Hyrum Smith farm home in Nauvoo (with side additions)
Sister Hunt and I had seen the place when on our photo tour and it then had a For Sale sign on it. On this day, however, the sign was gone and there was a car there – an indication that the place had likely recently sold. This sister was excited to get a photo of herself and husband by the Hyrum home sign and the original Hyrum home. (Another Nauvoo miracle to get her and the home connected … and again, I am likely the only missionary who would have known where this Hyrum home is located.)
Willard Richards Home in Nauvoo -Left side is original and right added by later residents
I knew that the Willard Richards Inn is a B&B and I had met the “innkeeper” a couple of months before – when I was out taking photos – and she had invited me in to see the place. I declined at that moment – but in the back of my mind, I knew that the possibility was there for future. I asked the Richards family if they would like to see inside the Richards Inn. They were excited about this possibility. I got onto the Inn website and called the information number. The lady did soon call me back, but she had a full schedule planned for the day. She then said that she would call Brian Christiansen (the Inn owner – and whom I knew) to see if he was available. He called me back shortly and we set a time a few hours later for him to meet us at the Inn. We took the group for a tour at Joseph Smith’s Red Brick Store, the Smith Cemetery, and the Joseph and Emma homes. We continued our tours and the family took a dinner break too.
Late in the afternoon we all gathered at the Richards Inn. Brian met us there. He gave us a great tour of the home. We learned that half of the home is original to Willard and that half was added by the later owner. The place was fabulous. The family has every room meticulously and gloriously decked out with beautiful bedding and décor. Wow!
Brian showed us many historical items in the place. He pointed out the desk that belonged to Willard.
He showed us two original Nauvoo Temple chairs (reupholstered.)
He showed us an original and sacred room where he said some Temple endowments were actually performed.
Brian took us downstairs. He showed us the basement level of the later home addition. The new owner was German and created his own deep and wide “wine cellar”.
And the ironic thing was that this whole giant room is made out of Nauvoo Temple limestone. Interesting! It was all so cool. I was happy that the family got to see more of their Richards history – and again, we all rejoiced in the continuing Nauvoo Miracle of us being with them.
Brian Christiansen – Nauvoo Entrepreneur in Tomb of Joseph
This Brian actually owns literally half of Nauvoo -motels, a mercantile store, and more. He has expanded his roots here. He invited the Richards family to meet him at his store. He then gave us a personal tour of his “Tomb of Joseph” located under his store. (I promise more on that subject in a future blog!)
ANOTHER RICHARDS CONNECTION
I’ve noted that this whole concierge arrangement is interesting. We wait in queue and we never know who we will be paired with. We just show up and take through whoever is sent to us.
About a week after the first Richards family visit, we met another Richards family – this time a couple of Richards brothers and their families – a group of 10 people. We were told to meet them first at the Sarah Granger home. We went over there and upon their arrival, we introduced ourselves. I was surprised that it was another Richards family. I told them about the two places – mentioned above.
The one guy lives a hundred or so miles away – so they get to come to Nauvoo often. They brought his brother from a more distant locale to see the place. He said that he had actually met this Brian six months ago as Brian officiated in Temple baptisms for them. Brian then invited the Richards family to come see his place. This guy had tried to call him – but could not connect. I said, “Well, I have his phone number.” We called this and got Brian on the line. (And we determined that the guy had one digit off on the number from Brian – and thus had not been able to connect with him.) He was pleased that I had the right connection.
As before, I set up a visit to the place. Though on a tight schedule, Brian made time for us. He gave us the same tour as previously and the family was all in awe (as they should have been). I also showed them the gravesite. Again, I told them how great it was that the Lord had orchestrated all of this – and again especially since I am likely the only missionary who could have shown them the Richards home and grave. It is all amazing and wonderful.
WELCOMING CHILEAN BROTHERS
It is always fun to go meet our new guests – who become assigned to us through the current “concierge” scheduling system.
Such was the case when we were told “Four men want you to meet them at the Joseph Smith Homestead for a tour.” We hurried over there. We live only a couple of blocks away so we arrived before them.
Upon their arrival, we learned that they are all from the country of Chile. It was a father and his three sons (probably all mid 20’s). The oldest Aedo son was Alvin. He is married and lives in Indiana. The other two sons are currently in Provo. The dad was here visiting from Chile. He spoke no English. The sons, Aldo and Andreas, all spoke English. These guys did not join the church yesterday. They have multi generations in the Church and they were well versed in Church history. They were excited to see and learn.
Upon meeting the men, I called the Visitors’ Center to see if we had any missionaries who could translate into Spanish. (Where are the young sister missionaries when we need them?) I was told that there are three senior missionary sisters who all served in Spanish speaking countries. The plan was that we would begin the tour until a Spanish speaking sister could be recruited. Alvin (named for Alvin Smith? Maybe … he agreed with that thought when I suggested it!)
We had a delightful tour with the men as we took them through Joseph and Emma’s Homestead and then the Mansion House. As we finished this tour, Elder and Sister Graham arrived on the scene. We all followed them and remained with them at Joseph’s Red Brick Store as Sister Graham gave a great Spanish tour.
We then told the men that they “have us for the entire day – if they wish … and that we could give them tours anywhere. Alvin said that as they drove down Main Street, his dad got excited about John Taylor’s Print Shop as they passed it. He suggested that we go there. I guess the senior Aedo had been a Chilean printer most of his life.
Per our usual mode, I presented the history material about John and Nauvoo printing. Then Sister Hunt (our resident “techie”) gave the presentation about the Nauvoo “era” printing press and the process. Brother Aedo got really interested in all of this. In the Print Shop, we have some black aprons, hats and even arm guards (to keep one from getting black ink all over themselves while printing). I took a set of the clothes over to Brother Aedo and he got all decked out in this garb. He was delighted and it made for a great photo op with his sons. And he enjoyed telling the sons about his known printing experience. I said to him, “We ought to have you give the tour!” They all laughed. We then took them next door to the John Taylor home and they loved this. I quoted the John Taylor testimony of Joseph Smith and then Alvin used the cue card to translate for his father. This was great! It was a very enjoyable afternoon spent with our Chilean brothers.
The men decided that they wanted to go tour the Carthage Jail. (FYI: It takes a half hour to get there from Nauvoo, there might be a wait if the place is busy and the tour takes a half hour – so this is a chunk of time to plan for.) And then another Nauvoo Miracle … Elder and Sister Graham recently returned from a 3-4 month stint as the Carthage missionaries. So, today, they “cleared their schedule” and followed the men to Carthage to give them the Spanish tour there.
A SURPRISE VISIT FROM MY BROTHER AND HIS WIFE
Speaking of brothers … We were surprised and pleased when my brother, Darcy, texted me and said that “there is a 90% chance that we will come to visit you in Nauvoo this Saturday.” Wow! I texted him on Thursday and asked if the chances had improved. He said that they had indeed.
They arrived here on a Saturday evening – just in time for us to take them to dinner at our favorite “Mi Camino Real” Mexican restaurant in the town of Hamilton. They loved the food and the ambiance as we do.
Darcy and Laura are soon to report for their own mission. They leave in January and will serve for 23 months in the Vancouver Canada Mission – speaking Mandarin Chinese. Wow! How is that for a mission call? My kid brother served his young mission in Taiwan and has maintained his Chinese language skills ever since. In fact, in raising his four children, he spoke almost entirely in Chinese to them. They all understand Chinese perfectly but answer him in English.
We enjoyed a very fun evening with Darcy and Laura as then stayed with us. (They thought our basement was cozy, warm and “just right”. That is good!
On Sunday, they attended our “missionary ward” with us at the Visitors’ Center. They, like us, were in total amazement of the assembled group of senior superstars. Then, after a gourmet lunch – a delightful smorgasbord assembled by Sister Lou Hunt, we were off to see the sights.
We arranged with the concierge coordinator to be out with them for the afternoon. We were giving tours – our missionary assignment – so all was good. At the church meeting, Laura was surprised and pleased to find a long-time friend. She and Sister McBride had been Young Woman girls’ camp leaders together years ago in Tooele, Utah. They enjoyed many shared memories of the old times.
Sister McBride often gives tours – in the “First Person” as she tells the story of the person and home of Sarah Granger Kimball, the creative inspiration behind the founding of the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo. Sister McBride suggested that we take our guests there at noon for her special tour. We took them up on the special invitation. We arrived there and found Elder and Sister McBride dressed “to the T” in their upscale Nauvoo period costumes. Their tour was as fantastic as were their costumes. These guys are some of our missionary best and it was so great to be in their presence.
Left to Right: Darcy, Kevin, Lou, & Laura Hunt, Sister and Elder McBride
We took them to six or seven different sites and gave the tours in each place. This was a special opportunity.
L to R: Kevin, Darcy, and Laura Hunt making rope at Family Living Center
We really enjoyed our visit to the upper room of the Cultural Hall. This place has a unique history. On this floor (shown below), Brigham and Joseph and wives danced with the community. In the ensuing years, the third floor of the Cultural Hall disappeared. When restoration was being done, the building then had been diminished to a 2-story structure. When the roof of the place was removed, the original floor was discovered intact and gorgeous.
As we visited here with Darcy and Laura, I pointed out the “band balcony” up above the room. Sister Lou Hunt and Laura went upstairs. Laura is the most amazing singers of the world and up there, she broke into a song (as she frequently does at random times and places -usually about the current situation). And the acoustics in the hall are absolutely amazing. The combination of Laura and the hall was magnificent. Wow!
We kept them out until about 7:00 PM as we shared our Nauvoo excitement – and they definitely felt and stated “there is such a special feeling here. It is obvious that this is a Holy Place”. That is what everyone says of their Nauvoo visit.
The next morning, as we were heading off to work at the brick yard, Darcy and Laura were off to their next adventure. Like Lou’s brother, Brad and wife who came here months ago, they are on a major US tour – seeing anyone and everyone that they have ever known – before their missions. (And incidentally, Brad and Kerry also report for a mission in January. They are going to serve as YSA support leaders in San Diego. Sounds rough … but I guess someone has to do it!)
TELLING THE NAUVOO AND BELCHER LEGACY BRICK STORY
A recent blog detailed the history of brick making in general and specifically here in Old Nauvoo. The Powerpoint presentation – and my later published book (on lulu.com) also talked of the legacy of my father-in-law, Elder E.H. Belcher, in the creation of the current Nauvoo souvenir brick (that is still given freely to our visitors – even after nearly 50 years since Elder Belcher created it.)
With time on my hands, I was able to hone in on the project. Sister Hunt and I were able to create a modified slide show for presentation to others. It took some effort and the learning of some new skills but we were blessed with the inspiration to proceed. We were able to show our first slide presentation at a meeting of our district – where we are newly assigned as district leaders.
We were blessed to have a “Facilities Management” missionary in our midst and he helped us get the conference room system all set up and working. It came off beautifully for the first run. And the mission president and wife were even in attendance. That was kind of a miracle, also.
I later tweaked the presentation and got it in good order. This is what I sent to you readers recently.
WHERE’S WALDO?
Time again is in our favor and with fewer guests, we have more time to party and gather as missionaries. Elder and Sister Workman hosted the eight of us couples who all live within a block or so of each other (down here on the “lower flats” – below the Temple hill. We had a great meal together and then several fun games. It was a fun time.
This was also a good-bye activity for Elder and Sister Simkins who just went back home to Enterprise, Utah – the home of my father and several generations before him. Sister Simkins and I are 3rd cousins through our common Terry family line.
Another fun activity was billed as “Where’s Waldo?” Elder and Sister Wilson, our missionary party planners – planned this activity. They had Elder and Sister Graham (the “site trainers”) go around to many of our sites. They took photos of very odd items in each place. Then at our gathering, they showed slides of these items and we all wrote down our answers. We had to write the item shown, and then the location of where it is. There were 31 items to identify and we got a point for identification and also the location. So, there were 62 points possible. I think I scored 46 or so. We all enjoyed this activity.
Where’s Waldo List (circled items are my misses)
And after we had found Waldo, we stuck around and together watched the “Polar Express” movie. That was a scene – with about 50 of us old folks couples there watching it together. It was a “BYOP” affair – meaning that we all had to “bring our own popcorn”. It seemed weird not to have the young sister missionaries with us. Normally it has been them that movies have centered around. We missed them.
KEEPING THE HOMES OF JOSEPH AND EMMA CLEAN
As site coordinators of the Smith properties, it falls our lot and opportunity to go frequently to clean the places. In the summer, the missionaries assigned to the homes clean the places after the daily shift. Now, however, as coordinators, we go at least once a week and clean the three places ourselves. This is a blessed opportunity. We are happy to serve Joseph and Emma in this way at the Homestead, Mansion House, and the “Bidaman structure”.
Joseph Smith Homestead in Nauvoo (Rear View)
BRICK MAKING
Winter (with fewer guests) is the time to stock up the storage room with bricks. Each of the missionary couples get to take turns creating the famous bricks. This means that we get to go there to work about once a week. This is a special treat – since this is an opportunity for Sister Hunt and me to help keep alive the Belcher brick making legacy.
Each time that we go to the brick place, we have several duties. The bricks are on an 8-day rotation before they get put into the kiln for firing.
We create the mix of Nauvoo clay, sand, and water. We put these items into the “pug machine”. This fancy machine mixes up the ingredients (churning it like a big mixer) for about two hours. We then poop out (or “extrude” is the more socially acceptable term) long brown rolls of the clay mixture. We cut these off in 4” long – and round – rolls. We then press the “pugs” into our Nauvoo molds to create the bricks.
Sister Hunt making the Nauvoo souvenir brick
We put these new bricks onto boards – with 16 bricks to a tray. We put these trays into large standing racks. The second day, workers “hack” the bricks. This means that we turn them around and over for better drying. The third day the bricks are “trimmed” of excess scraps from the molding process. The bricks continue to dry until the 8th day – when they are stacked into the kiln.
VISITING THE LEGENDARY “THE DUTCHMAN’S” STORE
A big thing with many of our missionaries is to go visit The Dutchman’s store. This place is operated by local Mennonites (or are they Amish? Who knows?). Anyway, this place is kind of “old time” in its displays and products. We have heard about this place – located about 55 miles west of us – in the town of Cantril, Iowa – for months. People have told us, “you have to go there”.
We had been to the Temple on our then Saturday P-day with Elder and Sister Parker. After the sealing session, they (also on p-day) invited us to go with them to “The “Dutchman’s” store. We didn’t have anything going, so we went along for the ride. The Dutchman’s just built a bigger and better store – located just a couple of miles from the former store.
This store is made of timber and had a great long-ago rustic look to it. We went in – full of anticipation of what might await us. And the missionaries were right! This place had a bit of everything.
I have mentioned that I am a “people watcher” and this scene was prime for that activity. The shoppers were in keeping with the theme and ownership of the place. I loved seeing the bearded men, the dress of men, women, and children. We could have worn our costumes and we would have fit in well.
Sister Hunt and I first dined on some large slices of pizza (just $1.50 a slice). We then meandered around checking out everything. I bought a needed pair of dark suspenders. I got a nice shirt for just $14. The color of the shirt matched our Nauvoo costume look. (Sister Hunt only needed to remove the collar before I could wear it.)
We bought some Christmas fabric – which Sister Hunt later used to make us matching hats for Christmas events. We bought some random food items.
It was fun to be with the Parkers, and it gave me fodder to write home about. It was fun to go there once but I am not sure that we will rush right back there.
CONNECTING WITH AN OLD NAUVOO FRIEND
Two or three weeks ago, a couple of “old duffers” (they probably thought that of us, also) came into the Visitors’ Center where we were assigned for the day. These guys had the look of fitting in with the old time look of Nauvoo. They said that they come to Nauvoo frequently – just to spend time here. They said that today’s trip was just “to get away from the wives”. They didn’t really have a plan. They just wanted to kind of meander around.
These guys are Nauvoo area old-timers. I asked them if they knew someone who might know the history of the town and its former homes. They suggested a guy named Gene McMeins. I said, “Wait a minute … I know that name.” I told the guys that I had served here in Nauvoo 50 years before and I thought that I knew this Gene. They gave me his phone number.
I called him later that afternoon and we had a good chat – before I had to cut off the call to greet a new incoming group of guests. We set a time for us to go visit him at his home. He now lives in Ft. Madison – not Nauvoo where he lived most of his life.
I had to think a bit of Gene to recall my former connection with him. I texted Elder Shaltes and together we shared memories of Gene. I realized that I knew him well back then.
We made a trek over to Ft. Madison to see Gene. It was a VERY chilly night. The bridge across the Mississippi River (going north and west from Nauvoo) had been closed for two or three months. Our trip was just a couple of days before the scheduled reopening of the bridge – so we had to take the long way around – south and then north along the river from Keokuk.
We found Gene at his small apartment. He is now age 92. He reminded me that back then (1975) he was the janitor for the Visitors’ Center, he started our movies there and was a general handyman. He was involved with everything. We were friends and he often came to hang out with us – and as he said, he brought pizza ingredients and baked them for many missionaries through years. I could see it all again in my mind.
Gene McMeins with Elder Kevin Hunt
Gene was kind of hard of hearing and said that he is legally blind. He did pretty well, however. He heard much of what we said, and he had some fancy computer contraption that projected small things onto large things on his screen – so that he could read them.
He really didn’t need to hear us. He carried on much of the conversation as he talked and talked. I was totally amazed at his memory and recall of those old days. Wow! He also showed me a large notebook full of old-time Nauvoo photos – of homes and businesses. I took photos of every page. All super interesting for an old history buff like me.
Vintage Photo – Joseph Smith’s Mansion House
Above: Nauvoo Legion Arsenal Building
A special history note. Gene told us that he was baptized in 1972, and that he was the “first male convert in Nauvoo since 1846!” Not sure how he knew that, but how super cool is that! Wow!
A CARTHAGE “NIGHT ON THE SQUARE”
The town of Carthage, Illinois is located about 25 miles south and east of Nauvoo. Of course, all church members know of the history of Carthage as it relates to the martyrdom of Joseph the Prophet and Hyrum the Patriarch. Luckily, feelings have mellowed out through the years – and today Carthage is much more friendly and welcoming to Church members and our friends. We have four to ten missionaries stationed there (more in summer, less in winter). These missionaries actually have residence there during their time of service.
This evening, we went to an unusual activity. We bundled up in layers of clothing. I put on my red long-johns (that go from head to toe). I then put on the thermal bottoms that I just bought at Dutchman’s. I then put on pants, a flannel shirt, and a knitted vest. Later I put on a red coat (from Jenae), a neck “ring”, and a scarf. Lou also “layered up”.
We drove to the town of Carthage and connected with several other missionaries – most dressed in “period” coats and costumes.
Missionaries gathered at Carthage Jail preparing to do Christmas caroling
. We met first at the Carthage Jail. We then walked as a group to the downtown Carthage downtown square. I went back for our vehicle and parked near the destination.
I told Lou that we were supposed to wear costumes but she hadn’t got the memo.
We stood in the 20 degree weather (5 degrees with windchill). We sang Christmas carols. I am not a singer so I just stood in the cold in support of the others. FM did bring a couple of large outdoor heaters. These helped a bit but it was still bitter cold. Lou had a hand warmer that I used (and she used the other one). I had it in my pocket and kept switching hands with it.
Missionaries caroling at the Carthage Square December 5, 2024
The town was staging their annual “Night on the Square” Christmas event and they invited missionaries (including all of us from Nauvoo) to come to participate with and for them. The town has the traditional “town square” that is exactly that. The majestic old courthouse is in the middle of the square and businesses of various kinds are on the four streets surrounding the courthouse – thus forming “the square”.
This Carthage event was a downtown Christmas activity for the community. The event was planned to get people out of their houses and out doing something. Local businesses on the square offered prizes, special events, and more. And two or three old horse-drawn wagons made their circle “around the square” for a couple of hours. They never had many riders, but the horses continued to prance around.
Many businesses were open and people were given papers to do a kind of scavenger hunt – picking up items at the places of business. The businesses were not that interesting (like real estate, loan offices, etc.), – but they willingly participated as stops for the scavenger hunt.
I am not into singing even under normal circumstances, but tonight in the freezing weather, I really did not have much enthusiasm for singing. Plus, we were kind of in close proximity with others in the group – and I am sure they would not have been impressed. I just kind of stood and looked interested and supportive. I did take a few photos of the group. Always the historian!
I wondered how anyone could be crazy enough to be out doing anything in the freezing weather we were experiencing.
As an excuse to get warmed up, I decided that I needed to go to the bathroom. I had to walk two short blocks to find any kind of place that had a restroom. I finally a Mexican restaurant that would let me in. It was a challenge with freezing hands trying to get through two layers of thermals.
I met Lou coming toward me as I returned and we decided we had had enough of the cold. Our toes were freezing. My hands were really cold and my face was chilled – where it was not covered up. We headed home.
We were hungry and I suggested that we eat at Subway in Hamilton. This proved to be a good choice. We both got chicken/bacon sandwiches on wheat bread. The sandwich was hot, so this hit the spot.
THE ANNUAL “NAUVOO CHRISTMAS WALK”
Lou and I participated in a great mission/community event the night after the Carthage activity. This was called the annual “Christmas Walk”. All of our 100 or so missionaries had assignments to help pull off the event. Sisters Beauregard (two of them) and Sister Croxford were the overall event chairs and they did a fabulous job.
Elder Kevin Hunt as Master of Ceremonies – Nauvoo Christmas Walk
I had an interesting role. I was the “master of ceremonies” for performances by various group in the Visitors’ Center. I got to announce the various groups who were to perform. Lou ran the lights and sound from the booth at the back of the West Theater where the event was held. This was a new activity for her and she did well.
We were both decked out in red and green for the occasion. We tried to still maintain some of our pioneer costume theme. I wore my white Mormon Battalion shirt and black pants (over thermal pants). I got a green cravat from the mailroom. I wore a green vest with my pocket watch. We both wore matching red and green checkered scarves. Lou made me a great cap of green and red Christmas fabric which we bought at The Dutchman’s. There was enough fabric left from the ½ yard for her to make herself a matching hat. She wore a green sweater and black pants. We both looked fabulous. We had fun looking alike and so into the season.
As we arrived at the VC, we had a couple of people take photos of us in front of the giant decorated Christmas tree that has been placed there. This tree is 20’ or higher and is magnificent.
At the show, a Brother Shurtleff was acting crazy. He came in and tried to snooker us by acting like a non-member and asking if he could go into the Temple. I told him, “Yes, anyone who meets the requirements can go in.” He later told us that he is the facility manager for the Temple. He later took a couple of photos of Lou and me in front of the giant Christmas tree of the Visitors’ Center. And as he was doing this, he left us a selfie of himself on our camera. So funny!
We had a jazz band from Warsaw – and then some singers joined them. We had some kids from the local Calusa middle school. A family performed with violin and cello. A lady gave a piano solo. It was a fun show.
We were scheduled to do our duties until 7:30 (after starting at 6 PM). Our friend Brian Christiansen took over as MC as we finished our time.
As we finished our show time, we were able to go out to experience the rest of the events that were staged for the community.
We went first to the Cultural Hall. Elder Wilson played the guitar and Sister Wilson played the harp.
We went to the Family Living Center. Missionaries had transposed this giant place into a Bethlehem city (like in the time of Christ). The Sisters Beauregard had done a fabulous job there. And Sister/cousin Tammy Hunt created some wonderful signs (with fabricdation or printing by the FM group) that adorned each station. Very nice.
We traveled through Bethlehem and experienced the birth of Christ and other manger scenes.
(Below) Sister Turner – with her long white hair – made a great angel.
(Below) Elder Parker, Turner and one other Elder were the 3 wiseguys.
They gave each family a small bag and then gave out little memory trinkets at each station. These were all “symbols” of Christmas and the birth of Jesus.
We stopped at the Wagon Depot and got a photo with Santa who was wonderfully portrayed by Edler Brian Reed – who has played the role of Santa for many years. This year, he had to wear a fabricated beard. Back at home, I think his long beard is standard for him. He had his family ship his own costume out to him for this event. That is part of being a good missionary – knowing and using your own talents and resources to help build God’s Kingdom.
We next went to the Pioneer Pastime Pavilion. They there served hot chocolate and cookies. The cookies were ginger cookies like they serve in the Scovil Bakery. These cookies were about four times the size of the Scovil cookies. They were baked by the Red Front Café. The hot chocolate was hot – but just right.
We stopped in at the Stoddard Tin Shop. Elder and Sister Bateen were there. They were dressed elegantly. They told the story of “A Christmas Carol” and Scrooge
. We went to the Post office. The Pearces were there. They told the story of Orin Porter Rockwell who showed up at the Christmas celebration of Joseph Smith in the Mansion House. We got to the Print Shop right as the whole event was finishing. The Grahams were there and had been playing parlor games with guests.
After 9 Pm (closing time), we also stopped at the Browning Gun Shop and home. Elder and Sister Sanders were there doing acting scenes with guests.
We took with us the metal (tin) lantern – with a flashlight for the former candle. I had given this unit to Lou for our anniversary in September. They made similar lanterns in the Stoddard Tin shop back in the day. Our unit is brown but otherwise looks just like the lanterns that Stoddard sold in his tin shop. We got a lot of comments from missionaries who loved our lantern as we walked along. Having this lantern made Lou very happy. She has always loved the lanterns in the Tin Shop. It was fun to travel with the lantern. Back in the day, the tinner actually made unique lantern designs for different families.
The weather tonight was much improved over last night. It was not nearly as cold. I wore just one thermal bottom and this was enough. Our hands and feet didn’t even freeze. This was a great blessing.
The Christmas Walk was deemed a grand success. It was estimated that over 500 people came to experience it with us. Worth the herculean efforts to stage it!
A MIRACLE SABBATH DAY
This past Sunday (December 8th) was a special day in many ways. I say that it was full of miracles.
We went to our own missionary sacrament meeting. We heard from a departing Sister Green. We then heard from Elder Walters – the horse Veterinarian. He shared insights as recorded on his “notes” through his mission.
After the meetings, we headed to the town of Ft. Madison, Iowa (located north across the Mississippi River about a dozen miles away to attend their ward church meetings.
Ft. Madison Bridge on the Mississippi River
TEMPLE DEDICATION IN TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA
My youth mission was served in Tallahassee, Florida. That was 50 years ago. And on this Sunday, a new Temple was dedicated by our Apostle, Elder Kearon. This was a very exciting and wonderful development. When I was on my mission, the Washington, D.C. Temple had just been completed. Prior to that, our Mesa Temple was the closest to Florida. When I was there, there was a stake in Tallahassee. I served in Tally as my last area. Panama City was my first area and it was in the Tallahassee Stake – although almost two hours away. So, it was very exciting to know of the Temple dedication today. I would have loved to have been a part of the dedication but it was broadcast only to chapels in the Temple district.
Also, when I was there, the whole region suffered from racial distress – with much prejudice against black (African American) people. Now the new Mission President Trusty is black. This is cool! The church has come a long way since that time. The new Temple was constructed right across the street from the stake center I knew long ago.
ATTENDING CHURCH IN FT. MADISON, IOWA
We wanted to attend church in Ft. Madison for a number of reasons. One was that my friend, Gene McMeins attends there. We did see him again and this was great. He was happy to see us. And at age 92, he looked really sharp. His white shirt was clean and crisp. I visited with him for a few minutes and told him that we enjoyed our visit with him. He said, “Come again!”
Upon arriving at the rather small chapel, we met a lady named Goddard. She saw my nametag and said that she is my cousin. She said that she had seen the “Church News” article about the “3 Cousins”. And she said, “I want to find a way to meet those cousins.” This was cool.
We did “Relatives Around Me” on the FamilyTree App. We found that we are third cousins. She also descends through my 2nd Great Grandfather, Elias Hunt. She had to hurry up to play the organ music so we didn’t have much talk time – but it was great to meet another cousin.
Then another lady came in and said that she and Sister Goddard are 3rd cousins so she thought that we would be also. Family Tree also noted that we too are 3rd cousins. It is always so fun to find such connections through FamilyTree.
MEETING SISTER CECELIA SMITH
When my father-in-law, Elder E. H. Belcher and his wife, Sister Verna Belcher were on their mission to Nauvoo, they met a rather young girl named Cecelia. She came to Nauvoo from Keokuk frequently and seemed to have a great connection with the folks. They helped her receive the missionary discussions and then Elder Belcher actually baptized her in the Mississippi River.
We have tried a few times to get with this Sister Smith but various circumstances came up which prevented us from getting together. It was wonderful to finally connect with her. It was truly a miracle – or series of miracles – that brought us together. We were grateful for those miracles.
I could say much more about Cecelia. We had a good discussion with her. She shared some fun details of her baptism and her story was truly interesting.
I plan to share more of her story – in greater detail – in a future blog.
RETURNING HOME TO NAUVOO FROM FT. MADISON
On our way back to Nauvoo from Ft. Madison, we stopped at a couple of parks in the town – looking for historic plaques. I found a Statue of Liberty look-alike statue – built by some Boy Scouts. I found a plaque about Indian Chief Black Hawk. These were both very cool finds.
Statue of Liberty Statue in Ft. Madison, Iowa
Chief Black Hawk Marker in Ft. Madison, Iowa
I noted the bridge across the river from Ft. Madison to Nauvoo. I failed to mention that crossing the river from the Nauvoo side is free. But, they charge for cars making their entry from the Iowa side. We were pleased that today there was a sign on the bridge booth that said, “Free”. Nice!
One of the very interesting features of this bridge is that it is a “swinging bridge”. This means that a major section of the bridge rotates a full 90 degrees. This allows for large tug boats and other ships to pass through without hitting the bridge section above them.
When we traveled across the bridge with Elder and Sister Parker, we got caught on the bridge as a boat was coming under it. We had to stop for quite a while as the ship passed. Sister Hunt is often our designated photographer – and that was the case in this situation. She got out and took several great photos of the action below and around us. Only after she had taken the photos did we see the sign with instructions to “remain in your vehicle”. Like my mission president of my youth said, “Sometimes it is easier to repent than to ask permission”.
On our return across the river on this Sabbath day we noticed the River below us. There was a lot of ice that had formed beginning at the river bank and extending into the river. We were intrigued that the river water actually froze the ripples on top of the River. Very cool.
FROZEN ICE RIPPLES IN THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER – FT. MADISON, IOWA
A STOP AT A HIDDEN NAUVOO CEMETERY
It is a known fact that I love finding and then exploring old cemeteries. And such was the case this Sunday.
Through our time in Nauvoo – and generally on our way to and from special events at the large “Pageant Center”, we have passed by a cemetery several times. I have known about two cemeteries in Nauvoo – that have pioneer graves, but have not known about this third one. I could not see a road to get into it. On this Sunday, I found a road that I thought might go to the place.
Momma Lou (Sister Hunt) wrote of the situation on the family WhatsApp program – along with a photo of me in my suit. She talked of my forever desire to be out exploring cemeteries (as I always did with the family when we were raising them – much to their dismay.)
She wrote, “Dad’s favorite thing to do – visiting cemeteries and taking pictures.”
I wrote in response:
“Notice me doing it in a suit!
Rest of the story… I thought that there were only two Nauvoo cemeteries. This cemetery is kind of hidden. We have many times passed it several times and I always say, “I need to find a way to get to it.”
Today I found the back way to get to it. We drove in to it today. At the entry was a sign saying, “Established 1870”. I was disappointed that it was after the Mormon era. We almost didn’t go in. I Decided to just make a loop around the place. I read some surnames along the way. I Turned the corner clear back in the back end.
I saw the last name of Blum on a stone. I recognized this name and pulled over to check it out. I then saw Ida Blum and her husband, Carl on the stones.
I knew Ida when I was here in Nauvoo 50 years ago. She was one of the greatest of Nauvoo historians. I knew her and she was ancient then … About age 87… As a non-LDS resident, She used to come to our church meetings and I heard her speak of Nauvoo history a few times.
I got back in and told Mom, “I know this lady”.
She said, “Maybe they need some Temple work done.”
I went home and found that all Temple ordinances for her and her husband and parents has already been done.
I then looked at the record for her daughter. She had most ordinances completed, but not her sealing to her husband. And I noted that he had not been endowed.
There is a Temple rule that you cannot do Temple work for a non-relative until after they are 110 years old (110 years since their birth). This lady turned 110 years just two months ago.
I got cleared for the ordinances.
Kind of a neat scenario… Another Nauvoo miracle.”
THE ANNUAL FIRST PRESIDENCY CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL
For many years, the First Presidency of the Church has staged a special “devotional”. And this event was held on this Sunday after our Ft. Madison trip. We could have watched this on the internet in the comfort of our own home, but we opted to go to the Visitors’ Center to enjoy the event with the many other missionaries.
It was a privilege to hear various speakers as they taught of the birth of Christ and the celebrations that center around His birth. I particularly enjoyed the message from President Dallin H. oaks of the First Presidency. He talked of the need for all of us to love all people around us. His theme for the evening was “Peace, good will to all”. He taught that we should have love and forgiveness for every one of us.
A NEW FOOD JOINT IN TOWN
Visitors who come to Nauvoo need to eat – just like the rest of us. But, that is easier said than done. The options are not that great. On occasion, some of our kids have wanted to give us gift cards for eating out. They ask us what is available in Nauvoo and we frustrate them when we say, “We have Dollar General”. That is about right. One daughter called our bluff and bought us a $25 Dollar General card – with the stipulation that it be for ice cream. So great!
The old stand-by is The Red Front Café. I have written about these folks before. They are amazing and their food is wonderful. They serve lunch and dinner. The Fireside BBQ is a bit pricey (but comparable to other BBQ venues) and their food is wonderful, too. We highly recommend them. They are new in town. They are open just Wednesday through Saturday nights for dinner only.
There were a few more options in the summer time, but they all closed for the winter (even my favorite Dairy Queen in Keokuk has a sign that says, “Closed for the season, reason freezin’”. I can’t wait for warm weather so I can again make my weekly trip there.
So, in light of the above, we were delighted to see a sign (at a former dessert place that wasn’t even open in our day here) announcing the quiet opening of the “River Sidon”. (Does that name ring a Book of Mormon bell? Could the River Sidon be our Mississippi River of today? Makes sense to me!) This place boasts breakfast (Wow!) and lunch. Opening day was our P-day so we said, “Let’s do it!” We found the place decorated beautifully and the food (for a first day) was pretty good.
MY CONSTANT SEARCH FOR NEW MONUMENTS AND MARKERS
I have blogged before about my search for new monuments and markers. I recently created not one, but two blogs on this subject. There were just too many photos for them all to be included in just a single blog article. Even after publishing those two blogs, I have continued my research. This research has come as I have decided to bring all of the material into a single book (to be published soon on lulu.com).
I continue to find some very interesting hidden bits of history as well as many additional monuments and markers that I did not find on my first pass through the surrounding area. Such was the case on our recent P-day. I had found information about three more monuments that I wanted to visit and explore in Keokuk, on the way to Quincy, Illinois, and in Quincy.
A P-DAY SEARCH FOR MONUMENTS
It was a Monday and it was our “P-Day” so we decided to go exploring – with the ultimate destination of Texas Roadhouse in Quincy. We went first to the town of Keokuk. I was anxious to find and photograph the very large and beautiful statue of Chief Keokuk. The Rand park where the statue (and his burial) is located is atop of a hill overlooking the Mississippi River. The park was staging a major Christmas light show tonight (and for many nights) so all of the roads to the place were closed. Thus, we could not drive to the statue. I had to walk quite a ways to get to it.
Chief Keokuk Grave and Monument – Keokuk, Iowa
I was surprised when looking through my mission slides yesterday, that I had a slide of this statue – so I went there and took a photo in 1975. Interesting.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CHIEF KEOKUK
I learned that Chief Keokuk was a contemporary of Joseph Smith. Joseph presented him with a copy of The Book of Mormon.
I have kind of known that the town of Keokuk was named for a Chief Keokuk, but I had not previously known much about him. This visit to Keokuk gave me opportunity to research and learn more about the man – “Chief Keokuk” for whom the town is named.
Keokuk was a leader of the Sauk tribe in central North America, and for decades was one of the most recognized Native American leaders and noted for his accommodation with the U.S. government. Keokuk moved his tribe several times and always acted as an ardent friend of the Americans. Wikipedia
In August 1841 Chief Keokuk and 100 other chiefs camped for several days across the river from Nauvoo. A few years before, Keokuk had briefly met Joseph Smith when he received a copy of the Book of Mormon from Joseph.
In the August 1841 gathering of the chiefs, “representatives from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints crossed over to Iowa to meet Keokuk and the other chiefs. They made detailed arrangements for a social event for Keokuk and more than 100 fellow Chiefs together with their wives, to meet Joseph Smith and his people in Nauvoo.
The Indians and the members of the Latter-day Saints agreed on the details for an all-day Pow Wow event that was to be a summer festival of diplomacy including food, music, and dance. The Indians would bring their drums and the Church members their brass band. The arrangements were clear and agreeable to both sides. On the appointed morning of Thursday, August 12th, the Ferryman took two flatboats and one ferry over the river from Nauvoo to Montrose to greet the Indian guests whose total number was greater than 200. Joseph had pre-arranged for the city’s brass band and a military unit to greet the arrival of this large group of Indians. These guests were at the time some of the most significant leaders of Native Americans in the country. Keokuk had a great sense of drama and after he and his people came to the Nauvoo landing, they remained on the ferry and flatboats.
Keokuk asked where the leader of the Mormon Church (as it was called back in that day) was. The welcoming committee said that Joseph Smith was waiting for them up the road in the grove. Keokuk said that he would not get off the ferry except that Joseph Smith was there to greet him in person. A messenger immediately went to get the Prophet and after a short time, Joseph and Hyrum came down to the landing to welcome Keokuk and his fellow Chiefs and their wives to Nauvoo.
For the rest of that day, there was a summer celebration in the grove. Church members offered the visitors their best “dainties” and fresh melons along with their brass band and singing. The Indians entertained the Church members with their drums and dancing. This was a very significant event for both the LDS Church members and the Indians. For Joseph Smith, this was one of the most important social events of his life. He made a speech to as many as 500 people when he announced that God had revealed to him that the Book of Mormon was an account of the fathers of Keokuk and his fellow Indian chiefs. Joseph Smith declared this as a direct revelation from God and thereby confirmed the truth of the Book of Mormon and that it was “written to the Lamanites, who are a remnant of the house of Israel.” The giving of his testimony to those Native Americans was very important for Joseph Smith. Keokuk was the living embodiment of the people of the Book of Mormon.
In researching Chief Keokuk, I found something very interesting. There is a magnificent full-wall mural of Chief Keokuk and other chiefs meeting Joseph Smith and this is on the second floor of the Mesa, Arizona Temple – near the “Grand Staircase”. I am from Mesa – I grew up just two blocks north of the Temple. For years, I have seen and loved this mural but had not ever heard the story of the mural. I thought that this mural was purely “symbolic” of Joseph taking the Gospel to the Lamanites. I had no idea that the mural depicted an actual historic occasion. I was elated to hear “the rest of the story”.
Mural in Mesa, Arizxona LDS Temple – Joseph Smith preaching to Indians at Nauvoo Pow Wow – 1841
Original murals by artist Lee Greene Richards remain upstairs in the area of Grand Staircase in the Mesa, Arizona LDS Temple. Photo: Kary Ann Hoopes
Just a side note: For decades (before Temples “dotted the earth”), the Mesa Temple was known as the “Lamanite Temple”. In those days, the Mesa Temple was the “closest” Temple for all of the Saints in Central and even South America. I remember as a teen how busloads of Lamanite Saints would sell literally everything that they had in order to come to the Mesa Temple so that they could receive their eternal ordinances. Back then, Mesa was much smaller. We had a large gymnasium-like structure located about a half mile from our home – and near the Temple. This was called the “Tri-Stake Center”. (Today there are about 40 stakes in the Mesa area – as compared to the three stakes that existed back then – but the structure still exists and is managed by the Mesa South Stake – of Zion – of which we were a part for twenty-five years as we grew our family in Mesa.)
This Tri-Stake Center was where the incoming Lamanites would stay for the two or three days that they were in town. I remember getting many Priesthood assignments to go down there with a hundred or so other men – to create a Lamanite dormitory. We would literally set up hundreds of cots – with mattresses and curtains – to house the folks. This was a great brotherhood activity. And often, the number of Saints who came exceeded even the large capacity of the grand hall. In such situations, our family would be asked to host some of the overflow families. This was a special opportunity. It was a bit of a challenge, however, since none of us spoke Spanish and none of our guests spoke English. We loved and hugged each other and we got along well. We soon learned that we could not compliment the folks on their beautiful clothes or anything they brought with them. When we did this, they would think that we wanted the item and they would try to give it to us.
JOHN CARTER – 4TH GREAT GRANDFATHER OF SISTER HUNT
Lou and I then made our way down river. I drove through Warsaw – a bad anti-Mormon town in the 1840’s – looking for historical plaques but found none.We got onto Highway #96 and proceeded South toward Quincy. I had decided that we would go in search of the grave for Lou’s 4th Great Grandfather, John Carter. I did a Google search and found him buried in the current remote village of Tioga and in an old cemetery called the Fletcher Cemetery. The Google directions to the Cemetery were good and they got us there.
Then, upon arrival, we needed to walk around to find his specific stone. We found the grave over at the very eastern side of the cemetery. This John was born in 1782 and died in 1852. He never joined the Church but his wife and children did. They went to Utah and he remained behind. He was the father of William Furlsbury Carter – Lou’s 3rd Great Grandfather.
I told Lou that I didn’t know if I had ever found the grave of a 4th Great Grandfather, but I later thought of John and Jane Coats Hunt, Zerah and Mary Brown Pulsipher, and Ira Rice – whose graves I have found. And I visited 5th and 6th great grandfathers buried in old Hebron, Kentucky. And maybe there are others. Anyway, finding a 4th Great Grandfather was a big deal.
I posted a photo of the grave on our family App. My son, Keith was the only one to take notice of the picture and he even came back with the note that John Carter even has a movie about him. I don’t think that the Disney show is really about our John (since it says he was a Civil War soldier – after the death of our John) – but that is interesting.
RIVER CROSSING OF SAINTS FROM MISSOURI TO ILLINOIS
We continued to the town of Quincy. I wanted to find a monument placed by the Church and others – which commemorates the place where the Missouri Saints crossed the river into Illinois in 1839. It also thanks the Quincy people for their care for the stranded Saints. I got a great photo of the rock – the monument – with a sunset and a bridge in the background.
Our next stop was the Texas Roadhouse – also in Quincy. I have had the urge to go there. This urge is more intense at times since in our little Nauvoo, we have no such eating places.
EXPERIENCING THE KEOKUK “CITY OF CHRISTMAS”
When looking for the Keokuk statue, I found myself immersed in a plethora of Christmas lights. They lined the park streets everywhere. I noted that the light displays were sponsored or set up by business of the town.
I was very intrigued so I wanted to return that evening with Sister Hunt. We did go back and we got in the line of cars. We followed the car ahead of us and we drove through the large “village” of lights. There were 100 or more lighted trains, planes, flowers, and everything else imaginable. The whole place was magnificent – and wonderful. And the best thing about this “City of Christmas” was totally free – as a community gift. And it was a special gift.
MIRACLES CONTINUE AS WE LOOK FOR AND SEE THEM
It has been fun being here in Nauvoo even in this very cold era of time. I am grateful that the Lord has “protected” us from the cold weather and that we can even venture out to enjoy the many sights and sounds of Christmas around us. We are in very different circumstances this year – without our families – but yet it is rewarding as we participate with the community and missionaries in these great events. I am glad that we can feel joy even with the temperature challenges. Yes, miracles continue as we look for, and see them.
And now, as I sit comfortably on my new recliner couch with my computer on my lap– and writing this blog article, I have a great view of the outside world from a window directly in front of me. “I looked out the window, and what did I see?” (as Primary children sing). And you guessed it … I see more of that “white stuff” coming down! It is coming down in giant flakes … Oh Joy! “Snow, Snow, Snow …” said my wife and missionary companion.
I guess I’ll be using that snow shovel later on. (And we learned last night that as Site Coordinators, at the Joseph Smith properties, that we are to keep the walks and stairs free of snow at the Homestead, Bidamon building, and the Mansion House. And that is a lot!) I guess I’ll be shoveling snow for Joseph later today! (And I can’t think of anyone I’d rather do it for!)
Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Dene Hunt are enjoying serving in Nauvoo homes and shops. We are pleased to be serving in Nauvoo as “Site Missionaries” in the Illinois Historic Sites Mission (that includes Nauvoo and Carthage). This is a great blessing and privilege.
As noted earlier, Sister Hunt’s parents, Elder E.H. and Sister Verna Belcher served in Nauvoo from 1979 to 1981. They spent their entire mission (18 months plus 2 6-month extensions) in the tiny Lucy Mack Smith home. They got to know that tour well. Also, while here, Elder Belcher built the Nauvoo Brickyard and created the now famous souvenir “Nauvoo Brick” that is still enjoyed by our guests today.
And you also know that I served in Nauvoo in 1975 for the final six months of my mission – also as a site missionary – just as today. There were then 8 sites that were open to the public and Elder Hunt knew each of these tours and took people through all of them.
Things are different today. There are over 30 restored homes and shops in Nauvoo, so visitors have a variety (and quantity) of places to see and experience.
Today Sister Hunt and I get rotated amongst the various homes – daily! We have the opportunity be in all of the 30 sites and have learned the scripts for each one. It is a great honor to serve in these sacred Pioneer homes and to share the lives and testimonies of faith of the early Saints who lived in Nauvoo from 1839 to 1846.
This presentation has been prepared to share with our family and friends. You often hear that “we are in this home (whatever one) today” with little comprehension of what that means. This document introduces the various homes and shops and tours that are available for guests to see and experience (and feel) here in Old Nauvoo.
We hope that you will enjoy this brief introduction to the many beautiful places here in Nauvoo. Perhaps it can help you enjoy Nauvoo from “a distance” until you have opportunity to come to Nauvoo to really experience Nauvoo for yourself. Come, and bring your families – and know and feel the full beauty, glory, and wonder that awaits you here.
Here is the link for you to connect to the presentation.
A while ago, I mentioned in passing about the Nauvoo Whistling and Whittling Brigade. In the earlier blog, I said that I would write about the Brigade in a future blog. And a promise is a promise!
THE WHISTLING WHITTLING BRIGADE IN OLD NAUVOO
Back in pioneer Nauvoo, the Whistling and Whittling Brigade was a thing – a special group – a brotherhood back then.
Today, we talk of the group in two of our presentations. One is at the “singing tree” where the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries (NPM’s) perform. There is a giant tree in Nauvoo. It is at the corner of Main Street at Kimball Street. Two or three times a day, the NPM’s sing at this tree, and it is so fun to gather there with whoever might then be on Main Street.
One presentation that we have enjoyed there is “Men Sing the Songs of Zion”. Another popular production is “The Youth of Zion”. In this little vignette, several of the young performers – both men and ladies – talk about the Nauvoo youth and some of their activities, their spirit, etc. I love this presentation. Like all of the other performances, this one is fantastic.
In this presentation, the performing missionaries introduce the Brigade and talk of how the youth of old Nauvoo protected the city with their whittling antics.
The Teamsters also talk about the Brigade as they tell stories out on their Carriage Ride – where folks ride on wagons pulled by horses – and as they go over the woods and through the river north of the Visitors’ Center. Their Depot – where the trip begins, is at the north end of the Center parking lot. The Teamsters tell of one David Moore and give him credit for starting the Brigade. They tell how his boys “whittled and whistled many a rascal right out of town.”
My ears perk up with any hint of some new piece of history for me to latch onto and to study in depth. And the Whistling Whittling Brigade was one of those. I am, of course, a whittler from ancient history – so I was particularly intrigued with this Nauvoo Brigade and their woodcarving. Whitling … now there is something I can relate to.
MY INTEREST IN WHITLING AND CARVING STARTED AS A YOUNG BOY SCOUT
I took up an interest in whittling when I was a Boy Scout – age 12. I had an official Scout knife – and I still have it. It is black and kind of “bulky” for a knife. (Not as sleek as later models.) I took the Woodcarving merit badge at Camp Geronimo. I earned the badge by carving a letter opener and a neckerchief of the hand of a Scout in the Scout sign. I still have the pocket knife and the letter opener. I cannot find the Scout sign, but I know that I must have it – since I never throw away “anything historical”. (I have quite a collection!) The two wood-carved pieces are not at all marvelous, but they do bring back special memories.
MY FIRST CARVED WALKING STICK
My woodcarving skills were put on hold for many years. I didn’t know that I had any skills – or even interest. Then I got involved with the Boy Scouts in a more professional way. And it was then that the dormant interest began to stir once again.
As a new professional for the Boy Scouts of America, I found myself on a 24 or so day training back at the old Schiff Scout Reservation in New Jersey. (This place was magnificent but has since gone the way of the world – sold to help pay for other Scouting opportunities). I attended what was then called “NEI” – which is the acronym for “National Executive Institute”. While at the NEI training, I went to the little bookstore that they had at the place. And I there purchased my first real Scout whittling knife. Wanting to carve, but not knowing what to carve, I found a stick and began to carve on it.
I carved “NEI” on it and took advantage of the natural curves and bumps of the stick to create a twisted funny face. Also on the stick, I carved “NEI 7803”. (I was in the 3rd NEI Class of 1978 …). I quickly learned that all one needs in order to whittle was to get a knife and a stick – and to go at it. I found that was true. It began to work for me. Again, it was kind of a humble start, but it was enough to get me hooked on the skill or hobby or whatever it was.
In the rush of leaving for home, I somehow left my newly carved stick at the NEI place in New Jersey. And then I was in a dilemma. I called back to folks at the Reservation, and they found the stick and the folks were able to send it home with a BYU friend who was in the 7804 NEI class. It took a few months before I had a rendezvous with Brad to get the stick back. I was grateful that he took it on the airplane and somehow got it back to me.
Carving that stick got me hooked on the practice and art of woodcarving. I resolved then that I would create a new walking stick for each Boy Scout camp that I would work at in the future. And, so, a new tradition was begun. I created a stick at and for Camp Loll where I worked later that summer. And then later, at Camp Bartlett, I created a new stick for that camp. And so, it began – and became a thing for me. I got into the mode of finding the right wood stick and with just my trusty Scout carving knife, I began to have success. I worked hard to create the new sticks through the years. And I had a great time doing it.
Creating the sticks was sometimes a challenge when the pressures of time and responsibility sometimes were so much that I didn’t have as much time to carve as I desired.
Over the passage of time, I created about 15 new walking sticks, and I have them in a barrel collection in my Scouting Trails Museum – now jam-packed floor to ceiling at our Maricopa home. We moved all extraneous stuff of Sister Hunt and me into our two front bedrooms to make room for our daughter and son-in-law who are residing in our place while we are on our mission. I filled one room (my museum) with my stuff and Lou filled the front bedroom with her stuff.
WALKING STICK COUNSELING
I found that carving the sticks at camps afforded me a unique experience. I called it my “walking stick counseling”. I could go sit literally anywhere in camp – even on some remote log on some hidden trail. I would start carving and within a few minutes, I would have a couple of Scouts there on the log with me. They were very intrigued with my carving and asked many questions as I showed them what I was doing.
We had great conversations. And as I sat with the boys on the log with me, I would ask them about camp. “How do you like the Nature area? What is your favorite thing to get at the trading post? Who is your favorite staff member? Do you see any problems with our camp?” And in these discussions, I learned about the goings on all around the camp. Then as needed, I could use what I had learned in future staff meetings or discussions with individual staff members.
By this method, I seemed to know everything that was going on around the camp. And this blew the minds of my staff. They wondered how I knew all of this about them, and their areas, and the camp. It was great!
THE POCKET KNIFE SAGA
I mentioned that first BSA whittling knife. I carried that knife in my pocket always for about 20 years. I had used this knife to carve many of my stick in the collection. Then, one summer, we took all of the kids up north to the town of Payson, Arizona and attended July 4th festivities there. We sat in the grass at a large park to watch the fireworks. Then sadly, the next morning, I realized with horror that I no longer had my pocketknife. We returned to the park, and we all scoured the area around where we were sitting – but to no avail. The pocketknife was nowhere to be found. (I am sure that someone else found it and enjoyed it.)
Soon thereafter, and knowing of my love for the knife, my three sons pooled their resources, and they bought me a new knife – identical to the original BSA carving knife. That was about 25 years ago, and I have since carried that knife everywhere as I had its predecessor. And, like it, I have now carved many more sticks with it. And I still (even on the mission) carry that knife with me everywhere (except church – where I’ve learned that it slips out of my suit pants pocket). And I also carry my dad’s “Old Timer” knife with me – keeping a part of him with me as I serve. (And there’s another “Old Timer” story … which I have already long since blogged about.)
MY OBSESSION WITH BOLO TIES
With my whittling interest, I have had a life-long obsession with a love of hand-carved bolo ties. Though I have never carved one, these have become my personal trademark. I have so loved them, that there have been few days over the years when I have not worn the carved ornaments around my neck. Even family photos through the years each sported a different bolo time (for posterity).
My bolo tie interest also had its beginnings in my youth. When about age 16, I read in the “Scouting” magazine about the famed woodcarver, Bill Burch. I read of him creating hundreds of the bolos and then giving them out to Scouts at the National Scout Jamboree. (And that is also when I first learned about Jamborees and developed an intense desire to take our Troop 155 to the upcoming 1973 Jamboree (and that is a story that I’ve already told).
Anyway, from that youth moment, I wanted to somehow acquire a Bill Burch Bolo Tie (or “neckerchief slide”) but didn’t know how to get one. This aching burned within me for several years. Then finally when I was about age 30, a Bill Burch bolo came to me.
Lou and I and three children (expecting #4) were then living in Santa Barbara, California (where I was still a professional with the Boy Scouts). I was also the Ward Mission Leader. We literally had absolutely no place to house our missionaries. (Santa Barbara is a wonderful and most beautiful place – but it is also very strange relative to housing for young adults and families.)
Lou and were already crowded in our 3-bedroom townhouse with our expanding family but we moved all of the children into one bedroom. We then created bunk beds and furniture in the other bedroom to accommodate young Elders to be with us.
One of the first missionaries who came to live with us was from Spokane, Washington – where I knew the carver, Bill Burch, lived. I got excited. I said to him, “Do you know Bill Burch, the Scout carving guy?” He said, “Yeah, he was my Scoutmaster.” I said, “Really …! Wow! I have forever wanted to have one of hisfamous bolo ties.” He said, “I have about seven of them in my dresser at home. I will have my mom send one of them to me.”
He did so … and that is how I got my first Burch bolo … numbered #6667 on the back. And that started an even greater obsession with them. The bolo had the address of Bill Burch on the back – with the number of the bolo. And with his address, I was able to communicate directly with him to acquire additional of his bolo ties.
Photo: Kevin Hunt (left with walking sticks and friends – at his 50th Anniversary in Scouting Jubilee Celebration
From that point forward, I have collected bolos from many sources and from more than a dozen different carvers of them. And now, I have a collection of about 35 of them – with the goal of having one to pass on (posthumously) to each to my nine children (including the ladies) as well as one for each of my 26 grandsons. It has taken a bit of effort and resources to accumulate such a collection. (And that brings to memory another blog article …) Read it at: https://thescoutingtrail.wordpress.com/2017/10/23/bolo-ties-are-part-of-my-scouting-tradition-part-1/
BLOGS, BOYS, KNIVES, STICKS, AND WHITTLING
Some years ago, a long-time Scouting friend, Darryl Alder, got me hooked on the hobby or whatever it is – of writing blog articles. I’ve written about a 100 blog articles on Scouting subjects and many of them through the years have been on woodcarving, or whittling,
I introduced one of those blogs saying, “There is something about boys, knives, and carving … Like kids and mud puddles, camp, Scouts, sticks, and knives just kind of go together. One thing that all Scouts seem to have in common is their propensity for stick carving.” (August 16, 2017)
Sadly, with the passage of time and the changing of the guard in Scouting (and me personally), many of the links to those former great articles have gone the way of the world. But I did save them and published them all in Volume #20 of my personal autobiography (that I called “My Life’s Collective Works”). You can access the book at this link:
NOW BACK TO THE NAUVOO WHISTLING WHITTLING BRIGADE
That was kind of a round-about way to introduce the Nauvoo Whistling Whittling Brigade. I hope that you enjoyed the detour …
So, boys, sticks and carving are not a new phenomenon. The connection is probably as old as time. Adam and his sons probably made knives and began carving soon after the Eden experience. It was likely a part of their survival mode.
When my sons were teens, they were privileged to attend the biennial Varsity Scouting “Mountain Man Rendezvous” held at Camp Geronimo near Payson, Arizona. In preparation for this grand guy event, the boys worked for months ahead to create capotes (large fur-like capes) mountain man hats, and other gear. Creating their own knife (from a plain piece of steel to a cool, finished knife) was a part of the program. And each Scout who made such a knife has, no doubt, treasured it for life since that time. (*Much to the dismay of their wives who wonder why their men keep such a thing in their homes.)
HISTORICAL BEGINNINGS OF WHITTLING AND WHISTLING IN OLD NAUVOO
Historical records indicate that the old Nauvoo Whistling Whittling Brigade likely did not get its formal start until 1845 – after the death of the Prophet Joseph
. However, Mosiah Lyman Hancock may have employed the same tactics much earlier – to help protect the Prophet Joseph Smith. Mosiah was born in 1834 so would have been ten years old when the Prophet was martyred. He was the son of Levi Ward Hancock (and nephew of my 4th great grandmother, Clarissa Hancock Alger). In his autobiography, he said,
“I joined the whistling and whittling band. In those days, there was, now and then, a fop or dude who would go to a man’s shingle pile, and with his hat or cap cocked on one side, would sit and whittle and whistle. There was no law against that, but from what we could learn, some of them were interested in taking the life of the Prophet. We kept a good watch and were directed to keep an eye on the “Black Ducks”. We really tried to do our duty, and we succeeded in bagging some game. I was about to give some instances, but forbear by saying, “In no case did I ever help to engage in whittling any one down to make them cross the great river unless they were known to be lurking around the Prophet’s premises quite late, or to be seeking that which was none of their business. In extreme cases when we knew a man to be a snobber, and who still sought the life of the Prophet, we would use our rail. We generally had four boys to a rail—–the rail would be flat on the bottom and was three cornered; on the top corner it was terribly sharp—–fixed to suit the aggravating circumstances. Four boys generally knew how to manage the rail. We all had our knives and our timbers to whittle and make rails from, and we knew what tunes to whistle. I do not know if the boys from Nauvoo would like for me to betray those old-fashioned secrets; but that was the way we initiated those who seemed to wish with all their hearts to become thoroughly acquainted with the secrets of the Prophet. …”
The above account tells of how Mosiah (who lived just a block East of Joseph’s Mansion House – on the corner of Water and Partridge Streets) helped to protect the Prophet Joseph. Mosiah continued: “The Brethren pushed the work on the Temple; and the Gospel was preached; and every Saint was busy doing all he could to help the work along. Although I was very young, I was on guard many a night, and gladly did I hail with many of the Saints, the completion of the temple.”
Mosiah adds an interesting side note: “On about January 10, 1846 [when he was 12] , I was privileged to go in the temple and receive my washings and anointings. I was sealed to a lovely young girl named Mary, who was about my age, but it was with the understanding that we were not to live together as man and wife until we were 16 years of age. The reason that some were sealed so young was because we knew that we would have to go West and wait many a long time for another temple.”
As noted, Mosiah seemed to be protecting the Prophet Joseph (who died in 1844). The real organization of the Brigade happened after the death of Joseph but Mosiah had the skills so he definitely would have fit right into the newly organized Brigade.
PROTECTION FROM THE MOBS
From the day of the First Vision, Joseph the Prophet of the Restoration, had to run for his life. He was constantly barraged by evil people who wanted his capture or even his demise. He had to be constantly on-guard and had to ask many other people for their help and protection in his behalf.
The enemies of Joseph and Hyrum thought that the church would evaporate or die with the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum. The harassment of the church stopped but only for a brief period before it intensified even more. The evil designs of the adversary opened fire against the Saints. Foes of the church were also determined to stop the construction of the Temple.
THE NAUVOO CITY CHARTER
“The Nauvoo City Charter was unique because it established a city council, municipal court, university, and independent militia unit (“The Nauvoo Legion”). The charter was quickly approved by the Illinois general assembly on December 16, 1840, and passed the final review by the Council of Revision on December 17, It became effective February 1, 1841. Before the 1870 Illinois Constitution, municipalities could vote to incorporate themselves or could be incorporated by special acts of the General Assembly. For a time, this city charter was magnificent. It served the Saints well and allowed them to create their own “Utopia” by which they governed themselves.
“The charter authorized the creation of a city council, consisting initially of a mayor, four aldermen, and nine council members; and a municipal court with jurisdiction over local cases and the power to issue writs of habeas corpus. The charter also included provisions for a university and a local militia. … The Nauvoo Legion, the city’s militia – and a local police force – was organized in 1841 and functioned until its charter was repealed in 1845. The Legion was made up of mostly members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Some opponents of the Legion believed it was a threat to non-Mormons.
“ ,,, Nauvoo’s charter was unique among Illinois city charters, the combination of powers in the charter and the energetic use of those powers became a source of contention.”
Neighboring communities saw Nauvoo and its charter a political and economic threat and mob violence increased.
After the Martyrdom, mob rule was the order of the day. Violence increased as mobs and wicked people continued to want to exterminate the “Mormons” (members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) – just as they had done in Missouri and elsewhere prior to the Nauvoo era.
Ultimately, the full charter – with all of its powers – including the right of citizens to defend themselves was revoked in 1845, again by order of the Illinois General Assembly. In January 1845, the legislature repealed the Nauvoo Charter by a vote of 25-14 in the Senate and 75-31 in the House.[2] Nauvoo was dis-incorporated and its assets were placed into a receivership. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauvoo_City_Council)
EFFECT OF THE REVOCATION OF THE NAUVOO CHARTER
The revocation of the Nauvoo City Charter dissolved the Nauvoo Legion as well as the local police force. This action came as mob violence and prejudice continued to increase exponentially. The city was then totally without protection. The Saints were left to the mercy of those opposed to them. Dramatic action was needed for the protection of the city and for the completion of the Temple. Brigham Young and the Apostles soon realized that guards were needed both day and night.
Thurmon Dean Moody wrote a beautiful treatise (maybe one of the greatest writings) on the subject of the Whittling Whistling Brigade. I recommend his article can be found at chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1738&context=byusq
Citizens of Nauvoo knew that this was the demise of their beloved Nauvoo. Appeal attempts were made but to no avail.
Almon Babbit wrote an appeal to the charter revocation: “Repeal the charter of Nauvoo, prescribe her citizens by your public acts and you will tolerate and encourage the demonstration of mob violence that surrounds the people of Nauvoo.” He noted that fiends around them were waiting to feast upon the Saints to their destruction.
Wandle Mace said of the evil forces: “They tried every means they could devise to bring trouble upon Nauvoo. Frequently a party would land from a steamboat and come into the city, commit their deviltry, and return to the boat and leave again – well knowing we had no law to protect us since the city charter was taken away.”
A PLAN IS DEVISED
Apostle Brigham Young decided that action needed to be taken. On Sunday, March 16, 1845, Brigham called a meeting for the next evening. He said, “We want the bishops at the Masonic Hall, and we will organize them according to our notion of things. We have no police, and the legislature has repealed our charter. We mean to have the City of Joseph organized so the streets shall be kept clear and the poor cared for.”
Hosea Stout had previously been the Chief of Police under the city charter.
Photo: Hosea Stout
The committee organized the city into companies of ten with a captain at the head of each company. The “new police” were to continue to meet mostly as a guard for the Temple. They were not a city organization, but it was to be an ecclesiastical guard. The groups were to receive no pay and were to be volunteers. Not wanting to resort to extra legal extra activities and being aware that their priesthood authority did not apply to any but their own people they felt as if this would be a viable solution.
At the meeting Brigham called, Hosea was present and suggested a plan. He had met three days before with Stephen Markham, a captain in the former Legion. Both were anxious to preserve order as much as possible under the circumstances.
The plan was to organize the whole community of saints into quorums of 12 Deacons – each with a Bishop at their head. David Moore – referred to on the horse “Carriage Ride” said, “The purpose of the organization was two-fold: 1) to take care of the poor 2) to guard the city at night to keep everything straight.” He further recorded: I was appointed one of the bishops also (at age 26). I had a very large district assigned to me. I was allowed 13 men, and we had to keep watch over the north part of the city one night each week including the steamboat landing. Our weapons were a large hickory cane and a toothpick – a huge knife. The object of the knife was to whittle rascals out of town.”
Brigham soon proclaimed this as a new “official Mormon practice” at the meeting on the 17th of March.
IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN
In his autobiography, George W. Bean recorded, “This was my first real public service at the age of fourteen and a half years [and] being large of stature and well equipped, I did my full share of duty for five days and nights after this. I performed guard duty at nights all winter about the streets of Nauvoo.”
On each corner was a man from twelve to twenty years of age who watched all movements from sunset to dawn and reported any suspicious activity to the bishop who promptly consulted the leaders and the Nauvoo Legion Officials.”
THE AGE OF THE BRIGADE DEACONS
Some reports of the Whistling Whitling Brigade indicate that the “Deacons” were all very young – like teen-age boys. Such may not have always been the case. In those days, there was no age parameter for being a Deacon. A Deacon could be a young boy, or he could be an adult. Ages for Aaronic Priesthood quorum membership did not happen until 1908 (just in time for the 1910 organization of the Boy Scouts of America). At that time, young men of age 12 could be ordained as Deacons.
So, the Brigade Deacons could have been ages 12 to 25 or older in old Nauvoo.
THE JOB OF THE WHISTLING WHITTLING BRIGADE
Paul D. Bailey gave a detailed account saying that the community “met the increasing flood of gentile undesirables by organizing the boy population into a whistling and whittling brigade suspicious strangers immediately would be surrounded by groups of boys armed with long bladed jack knives and sticks whichever way the suspect moved the boys followed whistling and whittling as they went. Not a question would they ask not a question would they answer. They were too small to strike individually too many to battle collectively when they descended on a hapless stranger they hugged his presence like vermin until in exasperation he was glad to take hasty leave from the abode of the saints.”
Wandle Mace said, “Our families were exposed to the rascals who on finding them unprotected by husbands and fathers would insult and abuse them in consequence of such things. The old police formed themselves into whittling companies and guarded the city from the rascals. When a stranger came into the city they would learn if they were upon legitimate business and if so, they did not interfere with them but if they had no legitimate business, they were then under the surveillance of the Whittlers who would follow wherever they went whittling and whistling. They did not molest them in any way not even talking to them but simply followed them whittling and whistling as they went.”
William B Pace painted a vivid picture as he wrote in his journal of the activities of the Brigade. He said, that “every boy generally could whistle and most of them had knives from ten to fourteen inches long in scabbards ”a la bouy” and when any of these fellows became boisterous or showed any signs of meddling the boy who discovered would draw his knife and commence whittling and soon a crowd of his pals gathered. Then they would surround the obnoxious element – be he large or small – many or few – and whistled and whittled in his direction and they’d stick by him until he was out of town. This was rather an amusing process. Not a word was said but an unearthly whistle – and generally everyone had his own favorite tune – and an incessant whittling with those large knives was enough to strike terror to the hearts of the victims and he got out of town as quick as his legs could carry him.”
BROTHER BRIGHAM AND THE BRIGADE
Brigham Young was often confronted about the Brigade by men who got whistled and whittled. He denied that he had anything to do with the antics of the Brigade. But, on 14 April 1845, during the height of the brigade encounter, Brigham Young mentioned that “Nauvoo’s Whistling and Whittling Brigade and the deacons have become very efficient looking after the welfare of the saints. Every part of the city is watched with the strictest care and whatever time of night the streets are traveled at the corner of every block a deacon is found attending his duty.”
Dirty men who felt the brunt of the Brigade sometimes complained to Brother Brigham and accused him of orchestrating the plan and the antics of the Brigade. One such person who talked to Brigham was given an interesting retort back. President Young is reported to have quietly replied in the words of Martin Van Buren when president of the United States to Joseph Smith: “Gentlemen your cause is just but I can do nothing for you. The legislature has taken away our city charter we have no laws nor power to protect you.”
Obviously, Brigham Young did support the Bishop and Deacon method of watching and guarding Nauvoo, but it was not as apparent that he was supportive of what appears to be its offshoot the Whistling and Whittling brigade.
Many reflected the opinions expressed by many involved with the organization noting that the Brigade lasted but a few weeks. But, even so, Scoundrels soon learned that to go into Nauvoo, men must mind their own business and not meddle with the people, or they would get whistled out. So, if the whistlers kept out even a few of the bad guys – the scoundrels – they were successful.
While the Whistling Whittling Brigade was successful in the short run, the Bishops and Deacons ultimately could not fully control the mobocrats who came after the Saints. They were still expelled from Nauvoo – beginning in February of 1846.
SO, WHAT DID THE WHISTLING WHITTLING BRIGADE WHITTLE?
This blog article was based on the assumption that the Whistling Whittling Brigade actually did real “woodcarving” – and that the Bishops and Deacons created a desired object, shape or design with their sharp-edged cutting tools. (That is a Google definition.) I guess I assumed that the work of the Whistling Whittling Brigade was whittling or actually wood carving. And this is what drew me to the Nauvoo Whistling Whittling Brigade.
Now, however, as I have learned more about them, I have realized that their real purpose was to protect the city and to encourage scoundrels to get out of town fast. I realized that they really weren’t doing real woodcarving, but they sure put on a good act. They cut on sticks as if whittling – but probably were just taking big swipes (maybe taking the bark off of their sticks). I had no idea that they did their whittling with large “Bowie Knives”. Whittling really is not possible with a very large-bladed knife. Whittling – with a specific goal or design in mind – is best done with small blades that can be manipulated to create intricate designs.
WHAT DID THE WHISTLING WHITTLING BRIGADE ACCOMPLISH?
I learned that the Brigade really was successful – in that they accomplished their goals – but it was a different goal than I had supposed. Their mission was that of helping scoundrels out of town. They were a real source of strength to the Saints. Their presence helped Saints feel at least some peace and protection – even in the trauma of the time. Their work had nothing to do with whittling and carving. Theirs was a higher calling – to protect their community, the Temple and fellow saints. And they accomplished that mission.
The Brigade members served their Nauvoo Covenant Community. Each man or boy did his best and did his part to contribute to the community as a whole. Brigade participants experienced a great brotherhood as they worked and served together. They became friends, and brothers as they served together for the cause of Zion.
Brigade members worked under the direction of their ecclesiastical or church leaders. They were a beautiful witness of how the Priesthood can operate when all work together. Bishops were responsible for and guided their Deacons – men and boys – in the protection of their fellow Saints. Bishops and Deacons worked together to accomplish their mission – setting an example of how Bishops and Aaronic Priesthood men and boys can work together in our day.
The Brigade was successful in keeping the peace in the short run but, the Brigade could not handle the violent mobs that were to come, and the Saints were later forced to evacuate Nauvoo the following spring. The Spirit and camaraderie of the Brigade members, however, would live on within their minds and hearts as they went forward – united in faith – to their next adventures and future priesthood responsibilities.
I am surely not a whistler, but I do love to whittle along the trail whenever I can.
Since Sister Hunt and I have come to Nauvoo, we have had some special times at Joseph Smith’s Red Brick Store, as well as at his Homestead and Mansion House – and other places.
March 5, 2024 proved to be a historic day that most of us had not anticipated. It was a glorious day. In a surprise announcement The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints and the Community of Christ together posted the news. On that date, all of the Joseph Smith properties in Nauvoo transferred from the latter to the former.
The Community of Christ Church (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ) is to be commended for their years of dedicated care of the Joseph Smith properties and we can be grateful for their service and management. Without their foresight and able management, these places would not be available to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the way that they are today.
The transaction included transfer of the Joseph Smith Homestead and Mansion House, the Nauvoo House, Joseph Smith’s Red Brick Store, the Sidney Rigdon Home, as well as Nauvoo’s “First Hotel”, the Jonathan Wright, William Marks and Aaron Johnson homes. Tours under the new leadership began on March 25 – just three weeks later. Since that time, many people have come in droves to see the new sites.
It was exciting for Sister Hunt and I to see the timing of our mission call. We (or I) had been frustrated with some delays in the call process. But after we received our call to serve in Historic Nauvoo, it all made sense. We arrived in Nauvoo just three weeks after the property transfer. And how exciting is that? And additionally, I was called to be the “site coordinator” for these properties. It was all very wonderful.
Since our arrival, we have had a several opportunities to serve as guides at the Homestead and Mansion House (one tour) and Joseph’s Red Brick Store. Our guests have been so excited to see these new places.
For those who do not know, Joseph fund a ready-made log home when he came to Nauvoo in 1839. What is called the “Homestead” cabin was built about 1823 by a James White – who was a Mississippi River fur trader. Joseph bought this home in 1839. He made two additional additions to the Homestead – first in 1840 and again in 1842. He and Emma moved to the Mansion House in 1843. The Homestead was the headquarters of the Church until 1842 when Joseph opened his Red Brick Store.
The Red Brick Store was a special and sacred place. Joseph said of his upstairs office, Here “I kept my sacred writings, translated ancient records, and received revelations.”
In the Store, Joseph recorded Section 132 of the Doctrine and Covenants. He translated and published the ancient Book of Abraham (in the local “Times and Seasons” newspaper), organized the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo, gave the first Temple endowments, and transferred Priesthood keys on to the 12 Apostles. So, the store was a very significant and sacred place in church history. (And it still is!) Pretty amazing and breath-taking in its scope.
THE JOHN WENTWORTH LETTER
John Wentworth was a Chicago newspaper publisher. He wrote to Joseph Smith asking what “The Mormons” believed. From his Red Brick Store, Joseph wrote back to Mr. Wentworth with 13 statements of our beliefs. We, of course, know them today as the “13 Articles of Faith”.
In our tour, we talk about the “Articles” and if there are children in the group, we invite them to share their favorite Article. They usually do better than the adults. It has been fun to watch the children recite them. On one occasion, three siblings stood together and sang a couple of the Article of Faith songs. So great!
We also talk about the “Standard of Truth”. This was also a part of the Wentworth letter. We also invite people young and old to recite this great standard and prophesy of missionary work going forth to the world. Many men and women have previously served missions and often recited the Standard at zone and other conferences. Often the folks can remember this from their missionary days. Even if they don’t recite it aloud, we can often see them mouthing the words along with us. (And The Standard is not just pretty words … it is Joseph’s prophesy about how missionary work will fill the whole earth. And as we look at what has happened since Joseph’s time – and everywhere in the world today, we see the exciting fulfilment of that special prophesy.)
One moment with The Standard was particularly memorable. I asked if anyone knew it and two teen brothers (about ages 13 and 16) stood flanking me and together they (and I) recited with great gusto:
”The Standard of Truth has been erected: no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. Persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished and the great Jehovah shall say the work is done.”
Those boys were truly amazing! And talk about proud parents … (and it was the parents who had taught them the Standard so they were really proud that their efforts may have taken root a bit with the boys).
Whenever we have teens come in, and as we talk of “The Standard”, I try to get them to imagine themselves on their missions and standing as a mission or zone and reciting that together “with gusto”. I hope I have enlarged their visions a bit.
A TOUR DELAY PROVIDES AN UNPLANNED AFTERNOON CONCERT
The Red Brick Store has two parts – the downstairs and the “upper room”. Typically, there are two sets of missionaries serving at the Store together. One pair of missionaries can be downstairs with one group – while the other pair can be upstairs with another.
On this one occasion, there was a lady on the tour ahead of us. She was unable to climb the stairs, so the other pair of missionaries kept her downstairs to share with her the upstairs tour. This left Sister Hunt and I outside and waiting with a group for the folks ahead of us to finish up. A group of about 15 people gathered with us out there on the Red Brick steps and surrounds. So as to not get even further behind with the tours, I opted to gather the group and begin the first floor tour outside.
I had just gotten started when the sound of music rent the air. We looked up and coming toward us was the “Nauvoo Brass Band” doing their band thing in their very own carriage. And seeing us gathered outside, they had the teamster pull to a stop. They gave us our very own private concert right then and there. Talk about fabulous! And the energy of those folks … they were literally dancing and bobbing as they played their instruments. Amazing doesn’t adequately describe the scene. Maybe it should be “spectacular”.
It is so great having the band on the streets of Nauvoo. They give such an exciting and upbeat burst of energy with every stop that they make. And they give a couple of concerts each day – in the “park” (grassy area) in front of the Print Shop – and elsewhere. Such a fun missionary assignment!
A UNIQUE MEETING WITH 12 UNUSUAL BROTHERS
We never know who we will have on our tours. This one group really caught us by surprise. We looked outside and saw them coming. They came in three cars, and they piled out and moved en masse toward us. I wondered what had hit us! Here was a throng of very handsome “brothers” – all with dark hair and looking amazing and wonderful. They were so impressive. As I greeted them, we did the “where are you from thing” to get to know the folks.
They announced that they were a religious seminary group and that they were from Toronto, Canada. They said that they were touring all over to learn about other churches. I said, “That is great! What other churches have you already been to?” I had to laugh at their answer. They said, “We went to Palmyra and then to Kirtland!”
As noted, the guys said that they were from Toronto, Canada. I knew however, that they were not native to Toronto. The Spirit told me that they were from the country of Pakistan. I asked them if they were Pakistani and they admitted that they are. I told them that I love Pakistani people.
I felt such a connection to these guys. They looked so fabulous as they sat with us in the Red Brick Store. My heart and soul went out to these guys. I thought they must be royal princes of the best of Abraham. Not sure if they come from Abraham but when I mentioned him, they acted as if they claim him as their father.
These guys were sincerely interested in everything. One sage seemed a bit skeptical of things, but the other guys seemed to be loving everything that they heard. They were soaking it in.
It is hard to describe the feelings that I felt in the presence of these guys. They seemed like such great men.
After the tour, I was shaking hands with a couple of the guys – and one in particular. Sister Hunt put out her hand to shake and the man politely said that he could not shake hands – (a cultural thing for him). But, he crossed his arms over his chest – over his heart toward her and said, “Thank you so much!”
I took the group over to the cemetery that contains the graves of Joseph, Hyrum and Emma Smith and others. One guy noticed my bolo tie and wanted to know what this was. He really liked my explanation – that it has no significance to anything but that I like t collect them – and that they are kind of my “signature thing”.
The men were in awe and reverence. I then took them over to where the Joseph Smith homestead tour begins. There were sister missionaries there to greet them. I asked the men if it was okay for the ladies to take them on the tour and they said that it was.
I was kind of overcome with the Spirit after the special time I had just shared with all of these men of power and strength. Wow! I noted a special connection with one brother. He seemed really into the message and had listened and watched me intently as I presented new truths to him. I could tell that he was really feeling the Spirit in a good way. As I said farewell to this group, I shook hands with this one guy and as I did so, I said, “It was so great to have you here, brother.” He looked at me, and in a very natural way, we pulled each other into a great hug. Then, to my surprise, the long line of men behind him also wanted a hug from me.
One guy wanted to take a moment to teach me how to say “Hello” or “good day” in his native language – possibly Urdu? He had me say the words and then he had me practice them. Sad to say, my grasp of the “gift of tongues” was not that strong at that moment – but it was a fun bonding time.
And then they were off … I was still kind of choked up when I returned to the Red Brick Store and greeted my next group.
GREETED BY HOMEMADE CINNAMON ROLLS, WE BECAME FAST FRIENDS
There is nothing like home made cinnamon rolls to help “make new friends and influence people” (as my friend “Sam” Carnegie would say. My wife honed in on that art many years ago – and she has been working her charm with them ever since (just like my own mother and grandmother before her).
It was late on a Sunday afternoon, and we were at the Joseph and Emma Homestead and Mansion House. Sister Hunt and other missionaries assigned there that afternoon were outside of the Bidamon Stable just visiting and basking in the beauty and wonder of the world around us – and feeling the influence of Joseph and Emma with us. This was as we had a few and rare moments between tours. (Actually, part of the team were giving tours.)
We were approached by a young family bearing gifts. Our mouths began to water – even before they got to us. Cinnamon rolls just seem to have a special aura around them. No one knew who these folks were, but they quickly caught our attention as we eyed the plates in their hands. I went over to greet them, and we became fast friends. They said that these cinnamon rolls had not sold in their restaurant and by their tradition, they were bringing them to share with missionaries. How grateful we were to be the recipients. Wow! I shared the goods with the other missionaries and we were all agog with the delectables before us.
MEET THE SQUIRE FAMILY OF DOWNTOWN NAUVOO …
We were greeted by Dad, Jordan, and Mom, Morgan Squire and three of their six children. Each one offered us a plate. Wow! You can come to our place any time, folks!
My wife and I enjoyed visiting with the Squire family. They shared with us their story (and with their permission, I share it here with ya’ll). They said that they operate the “Red Front” café or restaurant located in metropolitan downtown Nauvoo. We had already been to their place several times but had never met the visionaries behind the counter.
We were in awe and amazement as they shared with us their story. It was amazing, and inspiring …)
About five years ago, I guess they had been to Nauvoo on a family trip. And they had purchased a possible bed and breakfast location – here – just as an investment. They returned home to Salt Lake City, Utah.
Within a short time, the wife/mother kept having recurring spiritual promptings that they should move to Nauvoo to start a restaurant – and that they should do it NOW. She was stunned. They had no previous plans of doing such a thing. And further, they had never operated a restaurant. But, the thought and impressions kept coming. She could not get them to go away. The feelings pressed down on her and she could not shake them. She went to her husband and told him about her feelings. She thought and hoped he would say, “That is really a dumb idea” and would talk her out of it. Not so! He said, “Well, if the Lord has told you to do this, then we better go for it.” She was then in a state of shock … and it was time to act.
This situation reminded Lou and me of a similar occasion for us. We were living in Santa Barbara, California, where we had lived for two years. I had recently left the employ of the Boy Scouts of America. I had been a professional Scouter – for seven years but a change was a necessity. We were out of a job and had no money. We were just getting started on a trip to Utah. We were speeding along on the freeway east of Ventura, California on Highway #126 – heading east on our way up to Utah to see Lou’s folks and family for a short time.
As we were thus on the freeway – going through the lovely orange orchards, I suddenly turned to my wife and said, “You are going to think that I am crazy, but I just got the feeling that we are supposed to move to this town.” (And we didn’t know anyone there – nor had we ever been there). She surprised me as she said, “No, I don’t think you are crazy … I just got the same feeling!” Wow!
We made our trip to Utah and returned to our home in Santa Barbara and within a few days, moved 50 miles away to the town of Santa Paula, California. That move proved to be a wonderful blessing in our lives in many ways. (Three more children joined the four – and we had some wonderful friends – the Lazenby’s and others.) We were grateful that we heeded the workings of the Spirit with us. We remained in Santa Paula for five years before returning home to Arizona.
Anyway, back to the Squire family … Being united in the cause, they made the decision to move “right now” to Nauvoo. They began to make preparations to move. And they were surprised when a neighbor a few doors down from them came over to talk. The neighbor said, “God told us that we are supposed to buy your house.”
Sister Jordan objected and said, “But you have a house .. why would you want to buy our house?” The neighbor was just as surprised as were the Squire family – but acted on the inspiration. Soon the purchase was made. The Squire family packed up and headed off for Nauvoo in the moving van. They quickly found a Nauvoo home to live in, and within a month or so, they suddenly found themselves living in the little village of Nauvoo, Illinois (now bursting at the seams with about 1,000 people). And within a ridiculously short period of time – like within a month, they were moved in and had their new restaurant/café open for business. And they have been here doing business ever since. They do not know fully why the Lord directed them here, but trusting in Him, they have had success and great experiences here. (And our mission President says that this same feeling can be shared by many of the business owners of Nauvoo. He said that “there is a gathering here … and people are being told to come here– and they don’t know why. They just go for it and do it.”
This spirit reminds me of the scripture that was my family favorite as I was growing up: Proverbs 3:5-6 which states, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Even through several bouts of unemployment and lingering uncertainty, we have gone forward in faith. That has been the modus operandi for our whole lives. And it seems to be working! And we now express our gratitude for the Lord’s bounties unto us. He has always provided us with “sufficient for our needs”.
A PLUG FOR THE LOCAL “RED FRONT” RESTAURANT
Okay, so there are not many options for eating in Nauvoo. We surely do not have a monopoly on eating establishments. But, that is not the only reason why I tout the Red Front restaurant or café here in downtown Nauvoo. They seriously, they have amazing food (and decent prices). We have loved it each time that we have gone there – and with every menu item we have tried.
Our favorite menu item is their ice cream “bricks”. Maybe it is just the Belcher Brick in our blood, but we really love this kind of brick. It comes in a plastic box about 4” square. And the ice cream brick inside – nearly fills up the box. They always have their mainstay of greet mint chocolate chip – to which Sister Hunt is addicted – but often have other exotic flavors – like French Silk, Lemon Raspberry, brownie dough, and more. And the crust on each one is truly amazing. We often feel a pull on the vehicle steering wheel nudging us to go there at nights. Sometimes we will share one brick. Oher times, we will each get our own favorite brick (depending upon flavors available). Occasionally, we will each eat our full brick, and sometimes, we each get our brick, eat part of it there, and then bring home half of it to freeze for another happy time.
When people ask for our food recommendations, we always are quick to sing the praises of The Red Front – owned and operated by Jordan and Morgan Squire. They are only open to 8:00 PM, however (later than most places in town … since most “roll up their sidewalks” earlier) so you’ll have to hurry … but they are sure worth going there. So, “Hats off, Squire family!”
AND A SIDENOTE ABOUT NAUVOO SHOPPING OPPORTUNITIES
Anticipating Mother’s Day and Sister Hunt’s birthday (I think), our son, Rusty, asked what stores we have in Nauvoo. He was, indeed, quite shocked when we told him emphatically, “Dollar General”. That is seriously the Walmart of old Nauvoo. He never ordered from there … I guess the place did not meet his hopes or expectations.
ANOTHER UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER WITH THE SQUIRES
One day, Sister Hunt and I found ourselves serving (literally) in the restored “Scovil Bakery”. We were visited by the Sister missionary who coordinates the “cookies” for the bakery. She said that she would not be there, but said that a lady would be bringing in a large collection of cookies. She gave us instructions for getting them into large freezer boxes (there’s that “large” word again) located down in the limestone cellar of the place. She said that we would be visited by Jordan Squire with a large batch of the famous and now traditional Scovil Bakery molasses cookies. She said, “Large” but we learned a new meaning of the word that morning.
Baker Squire showed up as promised. We learned what “large” means. On that morning, she literally brought in about 4,000 cookies. Yes, that’s right!
For many years, the modern Scovill Bakery used to actually make these famous molasses cookies (in the native “bustle oven” of the place – so named because of the bustle on a woman’s posterior – that sticks out in the back) and would give them out to visitors. They became “legendary” and people came for the tour just so that they could get another of those pioneer delectables.
We learned that the “large” meant being innovative in how to get the five or six “large” crates of cookies downstairs. All stairs in Nauvoo are notoriously treacherous in their steepness, but the Scovil stairs redefine the word and description. One can hardly call them “stairs”. It is more like one of those old-fashioned fire station poles. Jordan just kept bringing the boxes from her car and I would carry them to the launching point for the so-called stairs. Lou would perch herself (literally and precariously) on one or two of the “steps” to receive the packed boxes. Probably not the best alternative, she would slide the boxes down to the cellar below. And then she would transfer the box contents into the two waiting freezer boxes. She would return up the pole (an interesting feat, in itself) with the empty box and I would return it to Jordan. Even with the challenges, we soon got all of the boxes downstairs, unloaded, and passed back up to me for Jordan.
Jordan told us the “Nauvoo” had contracted with her Red Front company to create some 50,000 cookies that were projected to be needed through the summer for the onslaught of visitors whom we hoped would come. The cookies are small … you could not make a meal of them … but they are at least a bite of that old-fashioned molasses goodness. And another engineering challenge is that they are all individually packaged in their own little plastic bag. 50,000! Wow. That really defines “large”. She said that the cookies were “all hands on deck” for her family. Talk about home evening activities … that was certainly one for everyone to be a part of. They probably wished that all six children had six or more hands each for the task at hand. And the poor kids are probably watching cookies being created, baked, and bagged, all through the night –every night. But, “progress is being made”, said Morgan. “The end is in sight! This makes about 41,000 cookies in the freezers below!” Wow!
After she left, I began to check out the system by which the cookies made it to the packed freezers. I decided that we were not being very smart. Even though this building is a restored structure, it still has the characteristic old limestone basement – and a cellar door going up out of it. And Voila! (Remember my blog about our bike riding?) Well, that was the case with this place, also. One needed only to unlatch the door down cellar, and pull the outside doors up and over. We could have easily saved ourself (and especially Sister Hunt) a lot of grief if we had used our noggins a bit more creatively. I later mentioned this option to the “Sister Cookie Coordinator” and she tried to fathom that scenario. I am not sure she was a believer, but she should be! It would sure be easier for those coming 10,000 more cookies!
Well, there you have it! Life in Nauvoo just keeps getting better and better. I think we will stick around a while! (And maybe get some more of those cinnamon rolls and molasses cookies…!)
As ever, from the Nauvoo trail …
Elder Kevin
Nauvoo, Historic Nauvoo, Senior Mission Couple, Historic Sites, Missionary, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintS
On the Nauvoo Trail 