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Become a member

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

8/9/1878

Byron in Ogle County is incorporated as a city. The settlement's name Bloomingville (later Bloomingdale) was thought to be too close to Bloomington, so Leonard Andrus suggested the name be changed around1838 in honor of George Gordon, Lord Byron, the English poet popular at that time.

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Publications

Publications

Illinois Heritage is our publication designed to encourage various professional, amateur historians and the general public to explore and write about Prairie State history for a broad audience.

The Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society is the scholarly publication with peer-reviewed Journal articles, essays, and documents about history, literature, art technology, law, and other subjects related to Illinois and the Midwest.

Historical Markers

Historical Markers

Since 1934, the Illinois State Historical Society has erected more than 500 historical markers statewide. Subjects of historical significance to Illinois are co-sponsored by local organizations and supporters. The Illinois State Historical Society coordinates the placement and management of historical markers throughout the state.

"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

Historic Crete Building Changes Hands

Crete Area Historical Society

Historic Crete Building Changes Hands

The Crete Area Historical Society announced it has recently purchased the historic Crete Congregational Church. The building is located at 550 W. Exchange St. on the west side of the railroad tracks in Crete.

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Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail Coalition 2nd Annual Road Rally

Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail Coalition

Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail Coalition 2nd Annual Road Rally

The Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail Coalition is hosting its 2nd Annual Road Rally! Spend a day traveling the beautiful 60-mile long Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail, exploring 12 historic stops from Cahokia to Historic Prairie du Rocher along the way. Get your card stamped at each location and if you get at least 8 stamps, you will have a chance to win some great prizes!! There will be family friendly activities in Waterloo at the final check-in with live music and a chalk art festival!

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Freedom & Remembrance Memorial Display

Peoria Riverfront Museum

Peoria Riverfront Museum has created a display featuring part of Phase One of the Freedom & Remembrance Memorial. The display, which highlights some history of the lost Moffatt Cemetery and focuses on the fifty-two veterans buried there who are named on the very large marker commemorating them and their service, will be unveiled Thursday, July 28th, beginning about 10:00 a.m., in the upper hallway leading to the Museum planetarium.

 

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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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Illinois State Historical Society   |   Strawbridge-Shepherd House   |   PO Box 1800   |   Springfield, IL 62705-1800

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