Joseph and Hyrum Smith Statue (Carthage, Illinois)
Located on the grounds of the old Carthage Jail
The old Hancock County Jail, also known as the Carthage Jail, was built in 1839. It was the location of the death of Joseph Smith, Jr., the founder of the Mormon Church, and his brother Hyrum by a mob of approximately 150 men. Friends John Taylor and Willard Richards were also members of the incarcerated party, but were not killed. The group had reported to Carthage, the county seat, to face charges brought against Joseph. On June 27, 1844, a mob stormed the upper room of the prison and killed Joseph and Hyrum. John Taylor was badly wounded and Willard Richards was scathed, but not injured.
The jail is today an historic site open to the public as a visitors center and museum owned by the LDS Church.
Joseph and Hyrum Smith Statue (Carthage, Illinois)
Located on the grounds of the old Carthage Jail
The old Hancock County Jail, also known as the Carthage Jail, was built in 1839. It was the location of the death of Joseph Smith, Jr., the founder of the Mormon Church, and his brother Hyrum by a mob of approximately 150 men. Friends John Taylor and Willard Richards were also members of the incarcerated party, but were not killed. The group had reported to Carthage, the county seat, to face charges brought against Joseph. On June 27, 1844, a mob stormed the upper room of the prison and killed Joseph and Hyrum. John Taylor was badly wounded and Willard Richards was scathed, but not injured.
The jail is today an historic site open to the public as a visitors center and museum owned by the LDS Church.