Nauvoo

Our entire Tuesday was spent exploring Nauvoo, Illinois. We learned about the early settlers of this area, including the LDS (Mormons) and the Icarians in the 1840’s.  Our horse-drawn wagon led us through the "flats" section of the city, which is being restored by LDS members to simulate how it may have looked in the 1840’s.  Our stop at the LDS visitor center gave opportunity to view the exhibits and adjoining garden.  Our day also included a visit to the oldest winery in Illinois, which was started by a member of the Icarian commune, and is still operated today by descendents of this same Baxter family.  After lunch we heard from a local resident about life in Nauvoo.  Free time permitted rest or exploration of the various Nauvoo attractions.  Dinner included an extensive buffet and lively conversations.  Our evening concluded with a musical performance by senior LDS missionaries from their view of old Nauvoo.