Western Illinois Museum

Western Illinois Museum
Western Illinois Museum
We can’t
do
what we do without you.
Donate and join us in moving history into the present with meaningful, educational experiences.
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History Belongs to All of Us: Opening Dialogue
Get reacquainted with the Declaration of Independence and consider how it asserts a form of government intended to empower a free and equal citizenry.
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Community Dance + Play-in
Join us for an old-fashioned square dance, with live music and good company. Plus, local musicians of all ages are invited to sit in on two dance tunes.
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Historic Fires in McDonough County
Join us for a community conversation on historic fires in McDonough County with Macomb’s Fire Chief Dan Meyer.
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The Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln
Join historian Larry T. Balsamo for a thought-provoking program exploring the collected works of Abraham Lincoln.
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Documentary Film Series to screen
Free for All: The Public Library
Join us for an afternoon of film, food, and conversation with a screening of the thought-provoking documentary
Free for All: The Public Library
, and stay for Larry A’s pizza, dessert, and conversation.
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History Belongs to All of Us: War of 1812 Land Grant
See our 1812 Land Grant and consider how paying soldiers with land catalyzed American population expansion.
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History Belongs to All of Us: A Conversation About the Autobiography “Life of Ma-Ka-Tai-Me-She-Kia-Kiak”
Through the writing of this Sauk leader and warrior, we’ll explore and discuss his perspective on migration, land use, and ownership
.
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History Belongs to All of Us: A Conversation about Community Memory
The concluding community conversation focused on memory, history, and the values we pass on to future generations.
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Read our 2025 Annual Report
Read our 2025 Annual Report and learn more about how we’re impacting our community.
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Museum Awarded Grant to Preserve Local Photography Collection
The grant will support a multi-phase project to improve the storage, documentation, and accessibility of the Museum’s photographic collection.
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Collection Update: Bringing a Soldier’s Words to Life
Read an interview with intern Jesse Godbey, who, together with Museum volunteers, has spent the past two months transcribing a collection of 90 World War I letters.
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The Power Behind the Progress: Volunteers Fuel the Museum’s Growth
Every day, volunteers are here working on projects, welcoming guests, and helping make the Museum the community-centered gathering place it is meant to be.
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Meet Carter Myers, our Intern and Program Assistant
Read about the projects Carter has been working on to create an enjoyable experience and help guests move through the exhibits.
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Renovate to Innovate Capital Campaign created a New Place
Each phase of our renovation breathes new life into this community hub, creating a place to connect with our history and each other.
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UPDATE: Renovate to Innovate
A lot is happening at the Museum! Check out an update on the improvements we’re making.
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Renovate to Innovate
Learn more about how the Western Illinois Museum is transforming from a small history museum to a community hub that is responsive to its community’s needs.
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Apple Butter Tradition
One of the harvest season’s favorite activities is making apple butter. Gerald White shares his family’s tradition in this short video.
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Lincoln’s Visit to Macomb
Why was Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Macomb in 1858 historic?
Well… let’s get into it!
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