Peoria Historical Society

05/28/2026

The Power of Song in Democracy, a musical presentation by Chris Vallilo, brings American history to life through music from the Revolutionary War to protest songs of the 1950s and 60s.

Sunday, June 28 | 3:30–5:00 p.m.
John C. Flanagan House Museum, 942 NE Glen Oak Ave, Peoria
Free public event

Bring a lawn chair or blanket. RSVP: 309-674-1921 or [email protected]

Sponsored by Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau

05/27/2026

05/26/2026

✨ SAVE THE DATE ✨

Join the Peoria Historical Society for the 2026 Henri de Tonti Award Celebration honoring Bradley University and James E. Shadid for outstanding community leadership.

September 17, 2026 | 5:30 p.m.
The Warehouse on State

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we honor and reflect on the many stories that shaped our nation’s history including this rare 39-star American flag preserved in the Peoria Historical Society collection. Donated by the Peoria Junior League, the flag was created in anticipation of the Dakota Territory entering the Union as a single state. Instead, North and South Dakota were admitted separately, making the 39-star flag obsolete before it ever became official. Carefully framed for preservation, this unique artifact represents a fascinating moment in America’s past.

05/23/2026

Jackson Gulley, and IB student at Richwoods high school, helped spread mulch with the P-M House Manager. Corey Curtis, our Underground Railroad expert, is Jackson's teacher. Corey continues to recruit volunteers to help at the House, which is very much appreciated!

05/22/2026

- Outgoing board members: Ed Barry, Susie Papenhause, Doug Hamilton

- 2026-27 Executive Committee: Abby Ihrke, Jarrod Martis, Jim Johnson, Branden Martin

- New board members: John Wiggins-Redmon, Abby Ihrke, Daniel McCloud, Ean Albers, Anthony Corso, Harry Croton

Here’s to a strong year ahead.

05/21/2026

Don’t miss Central Illinois Heroes Who Answered the Call — a powerful exhibit honoring the patriotism and sacrifice of those who served our country. 🇺🇸

Now through June 6 at the Peoria Public Library Main Library, Lower Level 1 Gallery.
The gallery is open Monday–Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM and admission is free to the public.

Take time to explore the stories of Central Illinois heroes who helped shape our nation’s history.

05/20/2026

We will be open Thursday for tours from 10-2.

On May 30, 2025, an Italian themed rehearsal dinner was held on the P-M back lawn. Do you have a theme in mind for your next special event
at our museum? Please call PHS at
309-674-1921 for more information.

05/17/2026

The Pettengill-Morron House Museum will be open for tours today from 1-4.
Photo opportunities await you in our historic mansion and on the grounds of P-M House Museum! Please contact the Peoria Historical Society office at 309-674-1921.

05/17/2026

Congratulations to the winners and honorable mentions of the 62nd Annual Rennick Art Exhibition! 🎨✨

We are proud to celebrate your talent, creativity, and achievement your work truly stood out. Thank you to all participating artists for making this year’s exhibition a success!

05/16/2026

Before moving to what would become known as Chicago, Jean Baptiste Point DuSable lived in an early French village here. A statue of him, created by Preston Jackson, stands in a small park at the corner of John H. Gwynn l, Jr. Ave. and Richard Pryor Place.

Calling artists interested in bringing to life a new Jean Baptiste Point DuSable statue to be unveiled at the forthcoming opening of the DuSable Park in 2027.

All artists are welcome, with priority given to Haitian artists or teams, particularly those with strong connections to the Chicago region. Deadline to submit is April 13, 2026. ⤵The full RFQ can be accessed in the link in comments.