Carthage to Chicago- Day 7

When it dawned on me that we were visiting Carthage on June 27 (Thursday), I was overpowered by emotions. To stand where they did and imagine what their feelings were--frustration and fear... Here we were 169 years later, where two of the greatest men were martyred. The church does an amazing job with their introductory films and we had a sweet older sister missionary lead us through the jail. My testimony of the truthfulness of the restoration grew by leaps during the past two days. I am in awe at the dedication and devotion of Joseph and the early saints.

A few tidbits of info--this jail is in its original form. Only the yellow structure was added during the time it served as a actual residence. In that state the feeling is mellow, not somber like the concentration camps I have visited--a true testament that those killed died for their work, creating a stronger religious base. The men were in the jailors personal bedroom when shots were fired, not the actual jail.

After Carthage, we set off for Chicago via some cities in Dave's mission...at least that was the plan. After winding through Galesburg and spotting little to remember, we opted to take a quicker route to Chicago.

We entered the metropolis of Chicago with little problem, except for knowing when to pay for tolls. Our hotel was impossible to find (at this point it didn't surprise me at our lack of success, yet it was comforting to know that most find even GPS unsuccessful at finding the location).

With Subway in our tummies, we settled into our hotel and set about doing laundry. I had mentally figured a larger room--nope, an old fashioned coin driven washer and dryer. At least I came prepared with a book. The kids enjoyed fiddling around on the exercise equipment. I was, however, looking forward to a bathroom next to our beds!