Kankakee County Museum

Kankakee County Museum The Kankakee County Museum exists to share the exciting historical experiences of our County. We hope that you will soon be among our visitors!

The Kankakee County Historical Society is one of the oldest historical societies in the State of Illinois. Since 1906, we have been fulfilling our mission to collect, exhibit, and interpret the material culture of Kankakee County. Each year, we welcome thousands of visitors to our Museum Campus to view our exhibits and historic buildings, and to experience our many special events. We also provide

research services, have unique books and other items related to Kankakee County in our Museum Store, and make available both indoor and outdoor venues for meetings, weddings, showers, and more. For more information, visit www.kankakeecountymuseum.com.

This photo captures some summer fun as Paul Schneider drinks from a garden hose with his father, Fred, at left. Paul's ...
06/12/2026


This photo captures some summer fun as Paul Schneider drinks from a garden hose with his father, Fred, at left. Paul's parents were Frederick Ludwig Albert Schneider (1847-1948) and Catherine (Kate) Beatrice Wagner Schneider (1877-1941). The picture was taken at their home located at 187 Greenwood Avenue, Kankakee, IL, on June 18, 1903. Paul Albert Schneider lived from 1902-1972. The image is part of the Walter C. Schneider Photo Collection.

This photo was taken during the groundbreaking ceremony for an addition to Kankakee City Hall in June 1972. The group i...
06/11/2026


This photo was taken during the groundbreaking ceremony for an addition to Kankakee City Hall in June 1972. The group includes city officials, aldermen, and representives of various departments. Identified in the photo are: at left, in suit and hat, attorney William Taube; at left center, with shovel, Ald. Roosevelt Begnoche; center, in light suit and sunglasses, Mayor Thomas Ryan; at right,in uniform, Fire Chief John Marquart.

Spanish American War Veterans at dedication of the concrete flag monument at the Kankakee County Courthouse, 1918
06/10/2026


Spanish American War Veterans at dedication of the concrete flag monument at the Kankakee County Courthouse, 1918

🍪 Recipe Spotlight: Peanut Butter Oatmeal CookiesFrom the Commemorative Cookbook: 60th Anniversary, compiled by the Kan...
06/09/2026


🍪 Recipe Spotlight: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

From the Commemorative Cookbook: 60th Anniversary, compiled by the Kankakee County Homemakers Extension Association, these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are a classic homemade treat packed with peanut butter flavor and hearty oats. 💛

Take a look at the recipe and enjoy a taste of local culinary history!

🇺🇸 Meet another member of the Night at the Museum cast! 🇺🇸Straight from the Revolutionary War, this brave soldier helped...
06/08/2026

🇺🇸 Meet another member of the Night at the Museum cast! 🇺🇸

Straight from the Revolutionary War, this brave soldier helped fight for America's independence and is ready to share stories from the nation's earliest days. Wise, kind-hearted, and always armed with a good sense of humor, he's proof that not all heroes take themselves too seriously.

Be sure to stop by and say hello to Ken Lewellen as he brings this Revolutionary War soldier to life! Whether he's discussing patriotism, swapping stories with fellow soldiers from other eras, or sneaking in a joke or two, he's sure to make history come alive.

This is just one of the many fascinating characters you'll encounter during Night at the Museum. Keep an eye on our page as we continue introducing the cast in the weeks ahead!

Wanna make sure you get a spot? You can get your tickets now on our website or follow the link below!

https://www.kankakeecountymuseum.com/event-details/night-at-the-kankakee-county-museum-2026-06-20-18-00-1

🎩 Meet another one of the historic figures you'll encounter at this year's Night at the Museum! 🎩This Abraham Lincoln st...
06/06/2026

🎩 Meet another one of the historic figures you'll encounter at this year's Night at the Museum! 🎩

This Abraham Lincoln statue was sculpted by George Grey Barnard, an artist who greatly admired the 16th president. Though he may look serious standing tall and dignified, he's always happy to share a story or two from the past and remind visitors that great leaders come from humble beginnings.

Be sure to stop by and say hello during Night at the Museum. Unlike some of our statues, Mr. Lincoln may actually have a few words of wisdom to share!

This is just one of the many characters you'll meet throughout the evening. Keep an eye on our page as we continue introducing the cast in the weeks ahead!

This aerial view of Kankakee High School (at 240 Warren Avenue) and East Junior High was taken in June, 1961. Anyone no...
06/05/2026


This aerial view of Kankakee High School (at 240 Warren Avenue) and East Junior High was taken in June, 1961. Anyone notice any changes to the layout in the 65 years since?

Address

801 South 8th Avenue
Kankakee, IL
60901

Opening Hours

Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

(815) 932-5279

Website

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