I Dig Nauvoo

You can help make history in Nauvoo!

May 27 – June 28, 2013

The Joseph Smith Historical Site is sponsoring an archaeological dig at the possible location of the home built for Joseph Smith Sr and Lucy Mack Smith in Nauvoo (south of the Mansion House across Water Street). . Descendants and friends of Joseph Smith Sr. can help literally uncover the Smith family’s roots in Nauvoo. “It’s been many years since we had an active archaeology program in Nauvoo,” says Lachlan MacKay, descendant of Joseph Smith, and Joseph Smith Historic Site Coordinator, “so seeing people excavating brings the research part of the story to life.” All tools and training will be provided.

“It really is a remarkable opportunity to make history in Nauvoo, to connect with your ancestors and dig with your children and grandchildren,” says Bob Smith, one of the hosts for the dig and descendant of Samuel H Smith. The Joseph Smith Sr. Family Association, Samuel H. Smith Foundation, Hyrum Smith Family Association, and Joseph Smith Jr. Historical Society are supporting the dig. MacKay explains, “I’m just incredibly excited to see us working together for this common heritage.”

Paul DeBar, who has been involved with many digs, including the home of Don Carlos Smith and the Joseph Smith Mansion House, is overseeing the dig. Initial research suggests that the current site is the home where Father Smith called his family to his bedside and gave final blessings to his children before his death in September 1840.

The dig runs Mondays through Fridays, May 27 to June 28, 2013. Dig helpers can register online for a four-hour shift, morning or afternoon. Up to 25 people will be assigned to a team during a shift, so your whole family can work together. “It is a family friendly opportunity,” says Smith.

Participants can also experience history by staying in the Nauvoo House—a dormitory sleeping facility–until June 24, 2013.

For more information on the I Dig Nauvoo project and to register, see www.idignauvoo.org.