Cultural Hall
Amid the hard work of transforming swampy Commerce, Illinois, into Nauvoo, Saints made time for social and civic meetings.
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The Cultural Hall was one of only a few buildings in the city that could hold large groups. This was a hub of the Saints' spiritual, cultural, educational, economic, Masonic lodge, and civic activities from 1843 to 1846.
view on Main Street
As it appeared in 1967
Following the exodus, the hall was converted into a residence. In 1884 the third floor was removed, some window and door locations were changed, and a staircase in the Northeast corner of the building was added.
1st floor
Theater
Soon after completion, the Cultural Hall housed several theatrical and musical productions as well as artistic exhibitions.
In April 1844 broadsides began to appear around Nauvoo advertising a forthcoming theatrical performance. Advertised as a "Grand Moral Entertainment" Pizarro, or The Death of Rolla.
2nd Floor
Quilt Displays
Room 1
Today, the second floor houses a display of beautiful quilts from the pioneer era.
Room 1 - another view
Room 2
3rd Floor
The third floor is open to visitors but empty. Members of Nauvoo's masonic lodges used the third floor for initiating new candidates and conducting other lodge business.
View of the Nauvoo Temple from a 3rd floor window
Paintings displayed on the 3rd floor
