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Becoming a member not only supports the Illinois State Historical Society, but also delivers excellent benefits to you giving you an excellent source of historical literature and resources. We offer multiple membership options for all stages and income levels. Look at our Membership area to find a plan that will work for you and join TODAY.

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Today in history

9/25/1965

Ground is broken at the Chicago Botanical Garden. By the next summer a drainage system had been completed to carry effluent from the Lake County sewage-treatment plant the distance of one mile to an aqueduct providing clean water for the garden.

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"The Conversation"

Care about Illinois history enough to make a solid (bronze) commitment to the Illinois State Historical Society? Donors of $2500 or more will receive "The Conversation," a limited (25 total made) edition casting of a new statuette by renowned Lincoln sculptor John McClarey on the theme of the first conversation at the White House between Frederick Douglass and President Lincoln, which took place on August 10, 1863. This is truly a wonderful keepsake and a statement about the power of listening in a world drowning in noise. Call or email today to donate and own a piece of history.

217-525-2518
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Latest News

Lewis and Clark State Historic Site/Illinois—Starting Point of a Great Expedition

Mythic Mississippi Project

View the authorized version of the new Lewis and Clark film: Lewis and Clark State Historic Site/Illinois—Starting Point of a Great Expedition here.

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ISHS Advisory Board member Dr. Alonzo Ward to speak at the Oglesby Mansion

Illinois State Historical Society

Associate Professor of History at Eastern Illinois University Dr. Alonzo Ward will speak on the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution (often called the reconstruction Amendments) and their effect on African-American migration to Illinois and Industrialization of the Illinois economy.

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Illinois’ Underground Railroad: Tribune series shines light on freedom seekers’ journeys through state

Chicago Tribune

September shines light on the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, created in 1998 to show the history of resistance to enslavement. The Network to Freedom features a verified, ongoing list of Underground Railroad sites, facilities and programs in the United States.

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Do you have an exciting local history news story or an event that you would like to share? Use this form to submit it and after a quick review it will be added to our news roll or events calendar. The goal is to add news and events from all over the state to celebrate Illinois’ rich history. Get involved and get the word out about news and events in your area.

 

 

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