1/2 of DAY 4

Day 4 we went to Carthage it was about 20 minutes away from where we stayed so not too long and it was fun to see everything still frozen from the ice storm. The front yards looked like ice skating rinks and all the trees and weeds were covered in ice.

We arrived to Carthage and were nervous the jail was going to be closed due to the ice, but we were in luck it was open...not many people there but it was open! HOORAY! There was a cute older missionary couple there that took us on the tour. We started by watching a short movie about Joseph Smith's life. It was neat to watch and know that we were right where he last was. We then headed outside in the FREEZING COLD to the
The first room was where the Jail keepers cooked for the prisoners. There was a husband and wife that were the jail keepers when Joseph Smith and the others were brought to the jail.
This room is where some prisoners for little crimes (not being able to pay a fine) would spend their time. It was a normal room just with bars on the windows and doors. Look how thick the walls are!!!My Cute Husband!
Then we went upstairs! The handrail was original it was really low the ladies would use it to hold thier dresses up while walking up the stairs...but it was actually just the right size for me!
Then to the jail cell! This is where the Prophet and the others spent most of their time. (sorry for the weird face, jason would just say katie and take a picture) the floors and cell parts were original. This room was really sad, just dark and locked in the little cell for who knows how long.
Then to the room where Hyrum and Joseph were killed. This was the jail keepers' bedroom, but they had the Prophet and the others stay in it to help make thier stay a little nicer. It was very neat to be able to be in that room, there was a calm feeling there. The kids even calmed down to listen to the Missionary. The original door was still there that had the bullet hole where the bullet came through and killed Hyrum. The missionary told us what went on that day and then we listened to a recording of how it might have sounded. It was such a special experience. It stregthened my testimony being there and feeling the spirit. I have a much greater appreciation for Joseph Smith and his family and what they had to go through to restore the gospel. It was real and lots were hurt and killed from it. I am so thankful that he was willing to give up everything for the gospel so we can have it today.
This was a special spot it is where Joseph fell from the window after he had been shot. We look kind of sad, but it was just a spiritual experience and we were thinking about the loss of the Prophet and his brother Hyrum. It was the original floor so we were standing where the Prophet had stood for the last time. I loved that room and am thankful for the Missionaries that help invite the spirit with their testimonies and reverence there.
This is a picture looking out of where Joseph fell. And some pictures of the outside of the jail.
And us leaving the special place.