Nauvoo, mobs, and Carthage Jail. All images from some of the darkest days in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. That history was made in Illinois. And now, all these years later, Illinois says it's sorry.
It's an apology more than 150 years in the making.
The State of Illinois is officially apologizing to the LDS Church, specifically for how early Mormons were forced out of the state and its first leader killed by a mob.
The LDS Church has a very rich history in the state of Illinois. Much of it however, includes memories of hardship and suffering for early church members.
Now the State of Illinois is saying it's sorry to the church and to the ancestors of those driven away so long ago.
When Latter day Saints settled Nauvoo in 1839, the community flourished, but drew fear and hatred from those native to Illinois.
Persecution ensued, even at the hands of the state's governor.
Church founder Joseph Smith was killed in 1844-- and within months, the Mormons were forced to leave their city.
Now an official resolution adopted by the State Assembly of Illinois is asking the LDS community for forgiveness.
Rep Dan Burke:” In learning the history, I thought it was most appropriate that we acknowledge this disparity and these events of the 1800's."
Rep. Dan Burke drafted the resolution, after his relatives vacationed in Utah last year ,and met with then Lt. Governor Olene Walker.
Their discussions of Mormon history led Burke's relatives to convince him to take a resolution before the Illinois state assembly that he says met no resistance.
Rep. Dan Burke: "It was remarkable that so many people understood this story and they were very encouraging to think that we are finally acknowledging those unfortunate events and moving forward. "
These days, the LDS Church has a strong presence in Illinois. Many historical areas have been restored and just two years ago, the Nauvoo Temple, was rebuilt--which has attracted thousands of people to Illinois.
LDS historians see the apology a significant move that will begin a new chapter in LDS history.
Susan Easton Black, BYU Professor of Religion: "So at long last it appears, not only is there an apology, we are officially being welcomed back and as one who has loved Nauvoo forever, I couldn't be more excited."
A Church spokesman calls the resolution: quote: "A thoughtful gesture."
Next Wednesday the Lt. Governor of Illinois and the lawmakers who drafted the resolution will be in Utah to visit LDS Church leaders.