Newsroom

The St. Nicholas Brewing Co. and the Illinois State Historical Society cordially invite you to the unveiling and dedication of an historical marker honoring Thomas Mather, an early Chester and Illinois business and political leader.

As a special feature to the annual conference of the Illinois Association of Museums in 2019, we are looking for museum media features which are used in an exhibit/gallery setting to be celebrated by museum professionals at the historic Normal Theater.  Features will be selected for screening by a jury of museum professionals from the Illinois Association of Museums and shown at the Normal Theater, 209 West North Street, Normal, IL on November 19, 2019 during the conference.
 

The Chicago Alliance of Visual Artists (CAVA) and the North Shore Art League (NSAL) are excited to announce their second joint summer-themed show, Forgotten Illinois. We are seeking works of art--paintings, prints, photographs, drawings, fiber art, mixed media, sculpture and ceramics--that tell a story, interpret an event, or reveal new insights about Illinois history from a 21st century perspective.

The Illinois State Historical Society celebrates its 120th birthday on May 19. The organization has seen a lot of history unfold in those years––two world wars, women’s suffrage, several pandemics, and more technological, social, and cultural changes than our fore-fathers and mothers could ever have imagined. 

In this issue of Illinois Heritage we look at several fascinating people, places, and events in our state’s past that will stir your imagination and, perhaps, inspire you to visit your local library. While you’re there, ask if your library is a member of the ISHS, or if it subscribes to our publications. If they do not subscribe, encourage them to call us at 217-525-2781. We would love to have them share the resources of the Society with their readers. 

Thanks for your support––all of you––for helping us do the work of recording and interpreting our Prairie State history.

Share your Heritage. Know your past.

Pack your bags and backpacks!

Southern Illinois is nature’s wonderland and in the fall it is magical! Join us as we explore the southeasternmost corner of the state for our fall tour, October 1-3, led by a team of historians and archaeologists. You won’t want to miss this adventure in “Egypt,” where we’ll explore the Shawnee National Forest, historic and prehistoric landmarks, the Garden of Gods, and sites associated with early industry, the Civil War, and the Underground Railroad. We’ll also be lodging at the San Damiano Retreat Center, a beautiful hideaway on the cliffs above the Ohio River. This ISHS Fall Tour is the one you’ve been waiting for!