Carthage Jail: A somber landmark in Latter-day Saint history
Visit the Carthage Jail, a significant historical landmark in the Latter-day Saint movement, and reflect on its somber past.
Carthage Jail, built in 1839 in Carthage, Illinois, is best known as the site where Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, and his brother Hyrum were killed by a mob in 1844. Today, the site is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a historic site and visitors' center, offering free tours that explore the jail's history and significance.
A brief summary to Carthage Jail
- 310 Buchanan St, Carthage, Illinois, 62321, US
- +1217-357-2989
- Visit website
Local tips
- Tours are free, but consider booking in advance, especially if you're visiting with a large group, to ensure availability.
- Allow at least one hour for the tour and time to explore the visitors' center.
- The site is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- The town of Carthage is small, but it has a few food and gas stops if needed.
Getting There
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Walking
Carthage Jail is located at 310 Buchanan Street in a residential part of Carthage, Illinois. From the Hancock County Courthouse, head north on Madison Street, then turn right onto Buchanan Street. The jail will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. There are monuments of quotes given by the prophet Joseph Smith along the walkway from the parking lot to the visitor's center.
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Driving
From Illinois Route 136, turn north onto Main Street in Carthage. Continue onto Madison Street, then turn right onto Buchanan Street. The jail will be on your left. Parking is available at the visitor's center. There is no fee for parking.
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