Virtual Tours Every Thursday in July
Join Lachlan Mackay and Barb Walden this summer as they share the fascinating stories, architectural details, historic people, and powerful lessons behind Community of Christ historic sites. The summer series is free, but you must register to attend the weekly online programs.
July 7: A Virtual Evening at the Kirtland Temple
"Around the quiet little village of Kirtland cluster some of the most remarkable events of Ohio history, and in its presence the visitor still feels the spirit of a people who possessed the fullest measure of faith and whose temple stands yet today as a monument of their devotion." These words appeared in the Painesville Telegraph in 1933, a century after the groundbreaking of the Kirtland Temple. Join Lachlan Mackay and Barb Walden as they explore what makes this historic monument, the Kirtland Temple, such a beloved structure for past and present generations. Learn the story behind Kirtland's "House of the Lord" and the significant people who helped build the historic house of worship. Program begins at 7:00 pm (Central) |
July 14: An Evening at the Joseph Smith Historic Site
On the beautiful east bank of the Mississippi River stands the Joseph Smith Historic Site. This historic site is home to a collection of houses once owned by Joseph and Emma Smith, the Smith Family Cemetery, the Nauvoo House, and the bustling Red Brick Store. Join Lach Mackay and Barb Walden as they explore the stories behind a number of the structures at the Joseph Smith Historic Site and highlight a few of lessons from the Nauvoo period. The Joseph Smith Historic Site was established in 1918 for the preservation and conservation of the historic properties. The Red Brick Store was rebuilt in the 1980s to continue the long legacy of preserving church heritage in Nauvoo. |
July 21: Plano Stone Church
Six years after Joseph Smith III became church president, the Smith family and church headquarters moved from Nauvoo to Plano, Illinois, a growing town located on a rail line just west of Chicago. Plano was home to a strong congregation that included new and old members of the Restoration movement. In 1868, the faith community constructed a beautiful house of worship featuring hand-crafted pews and large arched windows. The old stone church hosted a number of general conferences including the conference that established (and designed) the Community of Christ peace seal. Join Lachlan Mackay and Barb Walden as they explore the Plano period and tour the historic stone church. |
July 28: Joseph Smith III's Liberty Hall
This beautifully restored landmark on the Restoration Trail, known as Liberty Hall, was home to Joseph Smith III and his family from 1881-1905. The historic home once bustled with energy as the center of social and religious life for members of the Lamoni community. Join Steve Smith, Liberty Hall site director, and Barb Walden to hear the stories behind this beautifully restored historic site and the four church presidents who once called it home. |
August 3: Hidden Things Shall Come to Light: The Visual Image of Joseph Smith Jr
We are having such a good time exploring church history with you this July that we are extending the Summer Series an additional week! For our "bonus evening" on Wednesday, August 3, we will explore the history behind an 1840s daguerreotype that was tucked away inside a locket that was passed down through the women of the Smith family. Ron Romig and Lachlan Mackay will uncover the story behind the historic artifact and the evidence leading to their conclusion that the image inside the locket is that of Joseph Smith, Jr. The evening will conclude with an open Q & A period with the speakers. Join us on August 3 to hear the history behind this fascinating artifact and more. |
Purchase Your Books Today!
Want to learn more about Community of Christ history and historic sites?
A number of the books featured in the summer series are available for online purchase at the Red Brick Store! In addition to books exploring the latest in church history, the Red Brick Store is a one stop shop for historical reprints and gifts inspired by the 1840s Nauvoo community. It's not only a great online store, your purchases from the Red Brick Store support, preserve and maintain Community of Christ historic sites! |
Help Support and Preserve the Historic Sites
Although the summer series is free to attend, donations received throughout the series will go to support the ongoing preservation and maintenance of Community of Christ historic sites. Follow the link below to make an online donation. Thank you for helping preserve the past!
Although the summer series is free to attend, donations received throughout the series will go to support the ongoing preservation and maintenance of Community of Christ historic sites. Follow the link below to make an online donation. Thank you for helping preserve the past!