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The Kanesville Memorial Historic Site of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has reopened following reinterpretation work, offering free tours to the public. The dedication ceremony took place on September 28, 2024, led by Elder Kyle S. McKay, Church Historian and Recorder. Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh and other local leaders attended the event.
Elder McKay expressed gratitude in his dedicatory prayer: “We express gratitude for this site and the opportunity it provides to commemorate the faith and sacrifice of early Saints." He also emphasized giving "honor and praise" to Jesus Christ.
Matthew J. Grow, Managing Director of the Church History Department, acknowledged Thomas L. Kane's contributions: “Today we honor Thomas Kane and people like him.” Elder McKay encouraged attendees to care for those overlooked by society.
Mayor Matt Walsh highlighted the Church's commitment to Council Bluffs during his speech: "Thankfully [the Church] stayed true to their commitment to the city."
Located on East Broadway Street in downtown Council Bluffs, the site features native landscaping, historical waysides, bronze sculptures, and new monuments by Omaha artist Matthew Placzek. It commemorates key events in Latter-day Saint history such as the mustering of the Mormon Battalion in 1846, the reorganization of the First Presidency in 1847 with Brigham Young as President, and Oliver Cowdery's return to the Church in 1848.
Elder McKay reflected on Cowdery's return: “His meek return here in Kanesville marked a joyous, historic day for the Church.”
Visitors can explore the memorial at their own pace with amenities provided at a welcome center. Admission is free with more information available at ChurchofJesusChrist.org/visitkanesvillememorial.
