Carthage Jail

Learn about the significance of this historic jail.

Carthage Jail is a solemn, sacred, and humbling place. This reconstructed jailhouse was built to commemorate the final moments of Joseph Smith and Hyrum, who were killed by angry mobs. Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, and few volunteers traveled to the jail to respond to accusations of public disturbances and stayed here until the pending day of their trial. The governor of Illinois guaranteed protection to them, however, angry mobs stormed in and took the life of Joseph and his brother Hyrum. The jail was used for an additional 25 years and then became a private residence. In 1903, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was able to purchase the building and it was reconstructed for the general public to come and remember the life and actions of the prophet. 

The restored jailhouse is located 30-minutes from the historic city of Nauvoo. Visitors have been coming here for over 150 years to learn about the final moments of the prophet. Come and watch a short film about Carthage Jail and take a free guided tour of the jail. This hour-long tour will show you the rooms that the prisoners were forced to stay in. The lower floors of the jail and the visitor center are wheelchair accessible, but the upper floors of the jail are not. 

The visitor center offers drinking water and clean restroom facilities. Tours are available at Carthage Jail from 9 am to 5 pm.