I didn't have high expectations for Kirtland. Somebody, sometime, told me that they were disappointed in the area, and that idea stuck with me. When we pulled into the parking lot, and it started to rain, my expectations lowered even further. So, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I loved Kirtland, even with the thunderstorms.
The Newel K. Whitney store was my favorite stop on the tour. It was neat to see if set up just as it might have been in the 1830's. The kids thought the hats on display were especially funny.
I've never spent much time thinking about Anne and Newel Whitney, but the little I learned about them while in Kirtland has piqued my interest. When I have a chance, I want to study them more deeply. I was impressed with what I heard.
The School of the Prophets, located in a small upstairs room at the Whitney store was another unexpected favorite place.
In addition to Church history, we also learned about saw mills and asheries on our tour. I've never given much though to either industry, especially the soap making process, but it was surprisingly interesting. It reminds me to be grateful for how easy we can get the items we need/want to be comfortable and clean.
We spent the morning touring the Church History sites in Kirtland. We drove by the Kirtland temple, but opted not to take a tour, because it would have cost our family nearly $50 (because it's owned by the Community of Christ church, and they charge a tour fee). I'm a little sad we missed it, but I think it was the right choice for the moment.
On our way out of the area, we stopped at the James Garfield Historic Site (only five minutes away). Honestly, going into the tour the only thing I knew about President Garfield was that he was shot and died not long after taking office.
We enjoyed learning more about this interesting president. We had a chance to tour his home that contains 90% of the original contents.
The tour guide commissioned Thane to make sure we adults didn't touch anything. I can't say the kids loved the tour (Mark felt they were a little wild), but it was worth the visit. I'd like to read a biography of President Garfield sometime as well. I wonder if a good one has been written?
The kids were just happy to earn another Jr. Ranger badge.
We drove on to our hotel stop in Maumee, Ohio. It was my first time ever using a hotel laundry, and I was spoiled! The washer and dryer were huge and free to use. They even had laundry detergent. Nice!
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