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Western Illinois Museum

Open House

The Museum Board invites you to take a peek at all we’ve achieved in 2024 as we look ahead to the coming year on Sunday, February 23rd, drop in anytime between 1:30 to 3:30 PM. 

Reception for the Artist

Join us for a reception to meet photographer Bruce Morton on Sunday, March 2, from 1:30 to 3:30 pm.

Jazz Drummer Steve Davis

We welcome acclaimed jazz drummer Steve Davis to perform with the HAT Trio on Our Front Porch.

Lucy Pettengill, Underground Railroad Station Operator

Join us as reenactor Laura Keyes presents a living history portrayal of Lucy Pettengill, station operator on the Underground Railroad.

Rob Dixon visits Our Front Porch

Join us in welcoming world-class tenor saxophonist Rob Dixon to perform with the HAT Trio on Friday, April 4.

A Celebration of Our Region’s
Asian American Voices

We are pleased to collaborate with the Asian American Heritage Coalition (AAHC) to host a special community event to mark the launch of their new podcast series.

Read our 2024 Annual Report

Our Annual Report outlines what we accomplished in 2024 and what our focus will be in the coming year.  

End-of-Year Message: What Made 2024 Meaningful

As the year comes to a close, this season of celebration and reflection provides an opportunity for us to look back at the past year.

Donate to the Renovate to Innovate Campaign

Learn more about our plans and make a contribution.

Museum Receives $130,000 Tourism Grant

The Museum is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $130,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s (DCEO) Tourism Attractions Grant Program.

2024 Edition of the Renovate to Innovate Capital Campaign

Each phase of our renovation breathes new life into this community hub, creating a place to connect with our history and each other.

UPDATE: Renovate to Innovate

A lot is happening at the Museum! Check out an update on the improvements we’re making.

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.

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.

Lincoln’s Visit to Macomb

Why was Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Macomb in 1858 historic?
Well… let’s get into it!