Seventies Hall

Like other large public buildings in Nauvoo, the Seventies Hall provided a place where people gathered for worship, instruction, counsel, and social events. In some of the most significant meetings held in this building, the Lord inspired His apostles as they organized the people to leave Nauvoo and journey west in the winter of 1846.

The original Seventies Hall was constructed in 1844 on land donated by Edward and Ann Hunter. Each member of the many quorums of the Seventy was invited to contribute means and labor to its construction. The hall was dedicated in seven sessions between Christmas Day 1844 and New Year’s Day 1845. The hall was sold in June 1846 and used as a church and school before being demolished by 1869. It was reconstructed on its original foundation in 1972.

The hall was for the members of the quorums of the Seventy to conduct quorum business, receive instruction, and socialize together. During its first year of use, the hall also housed a library, a school, a doctor’s office, and a painter’s studio. On one memorable occasion in January 1845, Brigham Young stood at the pulpit and called members of the Seventy to fulfill missions in the surrounding counties. Later that Spring, the Council of Fifty met here to discuss plans for leaving Nauvoo. Thus, the hall became a place of revelation as apostles counseled together and sought divine guidance.

What to Expect

The Seventies Hall is a one-room guided tour. There is an optional exhibit and library upstairs on the second floor. After the Seventies Hall, you will walk over to the Webb Blacksmith Shop to continue the Pioneer Trail tour.

360° Walkthrough