On the occasion of the open house and dedication of the new Nauvoo Illinois Temple, the Church News this week begins a series of "Nauvoo Moments."
One of the more remarkable visits received by the Prophet Joseph Smith during the time he lived in Nauvoo occurred during the summer of 1841. The Indian chief Keokuk and about 100 braves and their chiefs from the Sac and Fox tribes, together with their families, had been camped at Montrose, Iowa, for several days. From there they were brought over the Mississippi River to Nauvoo on a ferry and two large flatboats.
A military band and a detachment from the Nauvoo Legion were at the landing to greet the visitors, but when Chief Keokuk failed to recognize Joseph among them, he refused to land or allow any of his party to go ashore until the Prophet personally came to welcome them.
The visitors were then conducted to the grove where the Latter-day Saints held their meetings.
Of this occasion, the Prophet recounted: "I . . . instructed them in many things which the Lord had revealed unto me concerning their fathers, and the promises that were made concerning them in the Book of Mormon. I advised them to cease killing each other and warring with other tribes; also to keep peace with the whites; all of which was interpreted to them."
Responding to Joseph's speech, Chief Keokuk replied that he had a copy of the Book of Mormon that the Church leader had given him some years before.
According to Joseph Smith's account, the chief said: "I believe you are a great and good man. I look rough, but I also am a son of the Great Spirit. I have heard your advice — we intend to quit fighting and follow the good talk you have given us."
After the speeches, the visitors "were feasted on the green with good food, dainties and melons by the brethren; and they entertained the spectators with a specimen of their dancing," the Prophet wrote.
Today, the city of Keokuk, Iowa, several miles south of Nauvoo on the Mississippi River, bears the name of this Indian chief.
Sources: History of the Church 4:403; B. H. Roberts, The Rise and Fall of Nauvoo, pp. 106-107.
