Mormon Thoroughfare: A History of the Church in Illinois, 1830-1839

Press Release
Mormon History in Illinois before 1839

For many people, the history of the Church in Illinois began in 1839 with the founding of Nauvoo. The rich history that encompasses 1830 to 1839 is often overlooked. A new book published by the Religious Studies Center , Mormon Thoroughfare: A History of the Church in Illinois , 1830-1839 bridges the ten-year historical gap. Both LDS and non-LDS perspectives are utilized to bring important events to light.

Illinois became a Mormon thoroughfare in 1830 when missionaries unexpectedly had to cross the state on their journey from Ohio to Missouri . This event helped make Illinois one of only four states to receive missionaries at this time. Those early missionaries were Oliver Cowdery, Parley P. Pratt, Peter Whitmer Jr., Ziba Peterson, and Frederick G. Williams.

In just five years, the LDS Church was likely the fourth largest religious body in the state! Thanks to the early missionary effort, future apostle Charles C. Rich joined the Church and became a branch president. His conversion, as well as the trek of the original missionaries, is recounted in this volume.

The history of this state also includes a “Mormon War” and the march of Zion 's Camp. The Saints' involvement in these events is chronicled in this manuscript. Also included are the accounts of Kirtland Camp and the Saints' exodus from Missouri to Quincy , Illinois .

The authors are Marlene C. Kettley, a historian who grew up in Illinois , and Arnold K. Garr and Craig K. Manscill, professors of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University .

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