Nauvoo Experience

​Written by Becky Middleton
Canada West Mission Centre Co-President

​From October 26 - November 14, 2013, I was privileged to volunteer at the Joseph Smith Historical Site in Nauvoo, Illinois. My first "official" assignment was to help carve Jack 'O' Lanterns for the town of Nauvoo's Pumpkin Walk - how fun is that!
 
After some tutelage and practice with Lach MacKay I was ready to take my turns leading the guided tour of the historic sites which include: Nauvoo House, the Homestead cabin, the Mansion House, and the Red Brick Store. I really enjoyed sharing the history and stories surrounding Nauvoo and the early church with the many visitors who came to experience the Joseph Smith Historical Site. There were many insightful and interesting questions that people appreciated candid answers for.
 
When I was not leading tours, I was able to help around the visitor center with decorating for Christmas and a few other tasks as well as visiting and getting to know my fellow volunteers.
 
On my days "off " I visited the Latter-Day Saint sites and enjoyed interacting with the folks there too. I was very interested in the heritage of the era and the lovely old buildings. Many asked me interesting questions about my faith with the Community of Christ, being a woman with priesthood and a pastor in Canada. It was an enlightening time for many.

I also visited the surrounding area either on foot or being chauffeured by some of the other wonderful volunteer/friends. These included the state park, present town of Nauvoo, Carthage jail and the Community of Christ congregation and campgrounds located at Nauvoo.
 
My accommodation was a lovely heritage home overlooking the Mississippi river. Beautiful! All in all, it was a wonderful experience that I would love to do again and hope to!
​For additional information about becoming a volunteer, click on the button below or email [email protected]
 
A tour of Italy with the Historic Sites team is being planned for 2024!

Blessings,
Becky

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