Many different peoples and cultures shape Nauvoo’s history. The Sauk and Fox Native American Tribes, displaced from their eastern homelands, settled along the Mississippi Valley and established permanent communities near what is now Nauvoo. In the early 19th century, European explorers and army surveyors created outposts in the area, leading to the founding of the precursor towns of Venus and Commerce in the 1820s and 1830s. In 1839, the Mormons, led by their prophet Joseph Smith, drained the surrounding swamplands and renamed the town Nauvoo, building a thriving city that, at its peak, rivaled Chicago. However, religious persecution forced them to leave, pushing their journey westward.
In the 1850s, a group of French idealists known as the Icarians, led by Étienne Cabet, attempted to establish a utopian, communistic society in Nauvoo with varying success. Later, German-speaking pioneers brought stability and progress, preserving many of the historic Mormon homes and shaping the business district still present today. Nauvoo’s remarkable past is a testament to the resilience and vision of the many people who have called it home. Explore the links below to learn more about the rich history that makes Nauvoo such a fascinating place to visit.
In 2012, the Nauvoo community had the honor of hosting a Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit—an extraordinary Museum on Main Street experience. This achievement was made possible through collaboration with the Illinois Humanities Council, the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, and numerous local and regional partners.
While the traveling exhibit has moved on, Nauvoo’s local Journey Stories exhibit remains on display at the Nauvoo Tourism Office at 1295 Mulholland Street and can be viewed by appointment. This exhibit explores five key historical movements that shaped the city: the Catholic movement, the Mormon movement, the Icarian movement, the German movement, and the taming of the Des Moines Rapids.
