The Growth of Nauvoo - Rapid City Development Through Divine Blessing

Harvey Harris Cluff testified to the miraculous growth and development of Nauvoo after the Saints were forced to leave their previous gathering places. He wrote: 'Soon Nauvoo grew, with magic rapidity, from a few rude homes to a magnificent city. The influx of members of the Church indicated the Nauvoo was destined to be the populous city of the state. Houses increased in number, farms were opened up and prairie lands east of the city converted into prosperous fields of golden grain. What seemed to give a wonderful effect in thus promoting the rapid growth of the _______, was the Nauvoo Temple which was rising in prominence, lifting its white walls above the city.' Despite having been driven from their homes and persecuted in previous locations, the Saints demonstrated remarkable industrial and spiritual faith in building a great city. The rapid transformation from wilderness to a magnificent city was a testimony of the Lord's blessing upon His people.