Carthage Jail

The Carthage Jail is a 2.5 story, rough-hewn brown brick building. Note the bars on one window.

NPS / Bryan Petrtyl

Quick Facts

Location:

310 Buchanan St, Cathage, Illinois 62321

Significance:

The Carthage Jail was the site of the killing of Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum, at the hands of an armed mob in June of 1844.

Designation:

National Register of Historic Places

MANAGED BY:

Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints

Amenities

5 listed

Benches/Seating, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Restroom, Trash/Litter Receptacles

In June of 1844, the nearby town of Nauvoo was prosperous and thriving, but distrust and uneasiness grew among its people. Criticism published in a local newspaper led to the destruction of its printing press, and the issuing of a warrant for the arrest of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. The two brothers eventually turned themselves in and were taken to Carthage Jail. Here they were held without bail as they awaited trial. On the night of June 27th, an armed mob stormed the jail. Both Hyrum and Joseph were shot and killed in the attack.  

Today, visitors can hear the story as they walk through the jail on a guided tour, and at the site’s visitor center. The Carthage Jail is operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Include a trip to this pivotal location as you visit the historic sites of Nauvoo, and explore the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail.

Site Information

Location (310 Buchanan St, Cathage, Illinois 62321)

Safety Considerations

More Site Information

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail

Duration:

1 minute, 23 seconds

Take a guided tour of this restored jail house and explore why it was the site of one of the pivotal events in the history of the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail. It was here in June of 1844 that an armed mob stormed the jail and killed Joseph and Hyrum Smith as they awaited trial. Today, visitors can hear the story as they walk through the jail on a guided tour, and at the site’s visitor center. The Carthage Jail is operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. go.nps.gov/CarthageJail

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