Phase 1

Although it’s not pretty at this time, Phase 1 of the garden preparation is underway in earnest during the Joseph Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith Family Reunion, beginning August 3-6, 2022.

Once completed a hand-hewn white picket fence will be extended around the Mansion House in Nauvoo, Illinois. All of the fencing components are built by volunteers.

Fence preparation surrounding the Mansion House, Nauvoo, Illinois

Fencing and other items are purchased through donations by individuals like you. 100% of all donations go toward the project. We appreciate any donation received — whether great or small.

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We are so grateful for the Nauvoo Facility Maintenance Group of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They have freely given of their time, talents and machinery to help with this project.

Preparation work for the Smith Family Gardens in Nauvoo, IL

Fence preparation surrounding the Mansion House, Nauvoo, Illinois

Phase 2

Phase 2 will begin in the Fall of 2022. This includes flower bed preparation and the planting of rain garden elevation landscape.

The inspiration of the garden is to create a landscape that is authentic to the historic nature of Nauvoo, Illinois. It will also include heirloom vegetables that the pioneer women would have used. In total, the garden will be something that would make “Mother Smith” and all of the founding women of Nauvoo proud.