In 1839, Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, led the Mormons to Illinois after their expulsion from Missouri. As Smith and his followers established a settlement at Nauvoo, many Illinoisans feared that the group’s religious authority had extended too far into politics. The huge wave of immigration to Nauvoo had created a massive voting bloc with the power to turn the tide of elections. The Smiths had many enemies, particularly in the press where anti-Mormon sentiments and denunciations of Joseph Smith stirred dissent among the citizens.
After ordering the destruction of an anti-Mormon newspaper’s printing press in response to some particularly pointed criticisms of his practices, the Smiths were charged with inciting riot, leading to Joseph Smith’s declaration of martial law in Nauvoo and a dramatic flight across the Mississippi River. Illinois Governor Thomas Ford urged the brothers to come to Carthage and surrender to the authorities. With promises of safety from Ford, the brothers eventually surrendered in Carthage where they were charged with treason. On June 27, 1844, an armed mob attacked the Carthage jail that held Joseph and his brother Hyrum. The Smiths attempted to defend themselves but were overtaken as the mob stormed and surrounded the jail, and both men were shot to death.
Letter from Governor Ford to Sheriff Minor Deming, 1844
Letter from Governor Ford to Sheriff Minor Deming, 1844
