Building Nauvoo

Early Saints living in tents along the banks of the Mississippi River

The Lord told the Saints to gather in a new place. It was near a large river, where the land was wet and muddy. It didn’t seem like a good place to build a city. But the Prophet Joseph Smith knew that with the Lord’s help, they could make it beautiful.

Man carrying wood on his shoulder, a horse and wagon with building supplies, and log cabins

Joseph Smith and other men laying bricks as they build a house

The Saints worked hard to make it a good place to live. Joseph called the town Nauvoo, which means “a beautiful place.”

Joseph Smith pointing out a spot on a hill for a temple

The Lord wanted His Saints to build a temple in Nauvoo. The people quickly started working.

Joseph Smith teaching other Saints in a house

The Lord had great blessings to give His people. In the temple, they would make covenants, or special promises, with the Lord. They would also learn about Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness for all His children.

The Saints worked hard to build the temple. It took a long time, but they were excited to learn about the special promises that the Lord had for them in His temple.