Warsaw, Illinois was the hot bed of Anti-Mormon activities in the 1840's, and was the home of the mob that killed Joseph Smith. However, this sleepy Mississippi River town has a fascinating history both before and after the 7 years the Mormons were nearby. Home to two early forts, Warsaw became a bustling port town only to be arrested in it's growth by 3 distinct economic events. Today, the town is a shadow of its' former self. With 200 years of interesting history, this book describes Warsaw's distinct time periods with a focus on the events surrounding the Mormon period. Home to 4 of the 5 men who stood trial for the murder of Joseph Smith, this book tells of the reasons for local hostilities, the events of Smith's murder, and the sensational trial after. Warsaw was home to 4 presidential candidates as well. This is the first history of Warsaw, Illinois.