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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

5/19/1899

The Illinois State Historical Society is established.

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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.

Our online store is now open

The Illinois State Historical Society has worked hard to open an online store which features literature and hard-goods which are related to Illinois. These are often hard to find or limited run items.

If you have a history buff in your family that is hard to buy for this is your place to shop! While anyone can purchase items we offer additional discounts to ISHS members. Visit our store to browse the current inventory of items, item availability and inventory will change often.

Visit our store

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Latest News

Walk With General Grant Tour

EVERY SATURDAY MAY THROUGH OCTOBER!

  • 5/7/2022 10:00 AM
  • Category: Events

Cost: $20
Ages 10+
Desoto House Hotel, 230 South Main Street, Galena, Illinois

No one knows downtown like our own General Grant. He’s more than happy to take you and your family for a tour of his favorite places on Main Street – like the DeSoto House and the famous Green Street stairs. He’ll share the stories associated with the many buildings on the National Historic Register and share his experiences when his family owned a leather and saddlery shop more than 150 years ago.

Read more

Walk With General Grant Tour

EVERY SATURDAY MAY THROUGH OCTOBER!

  • 5/14/2022 10:00 AM
  • Category: Events

Cost: $20
Ages 10+
Desoto House Hotel, 230 South Main Street, Galena, Illinois

No one knows downtown like our own General Grant. He’s more than happy to take you and your family for a tour of his favorite places on Main Street – like the DeSoto House and the famous Green Street stairs. He’ll share the stories associated with the many buildings on the National Historic Register and share his experiences when his family owned a leather and saddlery shop more than 150 years ago.

Read more

Walk With General Grant Tour

EVERY SATURDAY MAY THROUGH OCTOBER!

  • 5/21/2022 10:00 AM
  • Category: Events

Cost: $20
Ages 10+
Desoto House Hotel, 230 South Main Street, Galena, Illinois

No one knows downtown like our own General Grant. He’s more than happy to take you and your family for a tour of his favorite places on Main Street – like the DeSoto House and the famous Green Street stairs. He’ll share the stories associated with the many buildings on the National Historic Register and share his experiences when his family owned a leather and saddlery shop more than 150 years ago.

Read more
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Submit your local history event

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.

 

 

Contact Us

Office Phone: 217-525-2781
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Phone: 1-866-244-0626

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

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