This original, two-story, two-room log block house was built in 1803. It is
the only building on the original 135 acres purchased from local farmer Hugh
White. Joseph Smith Jr. (church founder) moved here in the spring of 1839 with
his wife Emma; sons Joseph III, Frederick Granger, and Alexander; and adopted
daughter Julia.
In 1840 a keeping room, which was short for housekeeping, was added on the
north side of the structure. In 1858 a two-story addition was added to the
west side of the structure by Joseph Smith III (church president and prophet
from 1860-1915). He and his family lived there until 1866. Joseph III served
as Justice of the Peace of Nauvoo during this time.
