Carthage Jail
On June 27, 1844, the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother, Hyrum, were shot and killed by a mob storming Carthage Jail. Joseph had devoted his life to Jesus Christ, organizing the Lord’s restored Church, receiving new scripture, building temples and uniting a people. But his success and the growth of the Church alienated other communities and led to numerous legal proceedings and frequent outbreaks of mob violence. Tensions in 1844 increased rapidly, culminating in Joseph’s and Hyrum’s deaths and the eventual expulsion of the Saints from Nauvoo.

In-Person Carthage Jail Tours
In-person tours are available during operating hours, which vary by season. Capacity on each tour is limited, and so large groups or bus tours should contact Guest Services in advance to inquire about availability and scheduling.
Days:
Mon-Sat 10am-4pm
Sunday Noon-4pm
Tour Times:
Every 30 minutes
Location:
310 BUCHANAN, CARTHAGE, ILLINOIS 62321
Reservations:
Not currently required for individuals or small groups. Groups with more than 25 people should schedule in advance to avoid long waits.
360° Walk-Through
Take a look inside Carthage Jail right from your computer or smart phone by checking out our 360° Photos. Click on the links during the tour to continue through the historic site.
Enter Visitors' Center
Continue Inside
Continue to Jail
Go Inside Jail
Continue to Dining Room
Continue to Main Room
Continue to Hallway
Continue to Debtor's Cell
Continue Back to Hallway
Continue Upstairs
Continue Into Cell
Continue To Upstairs Bedroom
Continue To Outside Courtyard
Enter Visitors' Center
Continue Inside
Continue to Jail
Go Inside Jail
Continue to Dining Room
Continue to Main Room
Continue to Hallway
Continue to Debtor's Cell
Continue Back to Hallway
Continue Upstairs
Continue Into Cell
Continue To Upstairs Bedroom
Continue To Outside Courtyard
Image Gallery
Peek inside Carthage Jail as you scroll through our Image Gallery.

























