Find Your Patriot, a three‑session genealogy research program designed to help local residents uncover and document their Revolutionary War ancestors was concluded May 2. Led by professional genealogist Dann Norton, with assistance from trained members of the Historical Society, this hands‑on workshop guided participants through the process of tracing lineage, locating military records, and identifying ancestors who contributed to America’s fight for independence 250 years ag

Centuries before Columbus arrived, a powerful culture rose up in the Mississippi Valley. These people built a sophisticated civilization that became the largest north of Mexico. Up to 20,000 people populated Cahokia which made it larger than London in 1250 AD. These people influenced cultures from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. They made significant advances in astronomy, agriculture, and economics. And then they disappeared. The Mississippian period began 1100 year

We regularly receive historic artifacts from donors who are committed to preserving Lawrence County history, and we are grateful for their generosity. Last week, we welcomed this item into our collection; it originally came from the Martin Funeral Home in St. Francisville. This fireplace cover, often referred to as a “summer cover,” was used to seal fireplace openings during the warmer months when the fireplace was not in use. Made of durable, heat-resistant cast iron, it lik

Sears Catalog Collage Visit the History Center on the Lawrenceville Square to see the shoes worn by the Ladies of Lawrence, showcased alongside our dress exhibit. To schedule a visit, call 908-208-2372. Admission is free; donations are welcome.

Laced and Layered : The History of Lingerie 1850–1950 Presented by the Lawrence County Historical Society Lawrenceville, Illinois — The Lawrence County Historical Society invites the public to slip into something historically comfortable with “Layered and Laced: The History of Lingerie 1850–1950.” This lively program will be held Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the History Center on the Square in Lawrenceville. This event marks the third installment in the Society’s

Two great things happening today Plan to attend the program “The Little Town with a Big Heart” on February 21, 2026, at 1:30pm at at Sumner’s new City Hall, 224 S. Christy Ave. Free admittance and refreshment courtesy of the city of Sumner. Presentation by George Zwilling. AND The Lawrence County Illinois Historical Society proudly announces the TV premiere of its documentary, "An Eagle on his Button." This film highlights the remarkable stories of African Americans fro

From our membership committee: It is that time again! Our letters to renew your membership are in the mail! We had a very exciting 2025! We had many successful programs that we are very proud of! Our program on Harold Washington, first black Mayor of Chicago, was very well-received in Pinkstaff. Our program on the Pinkstaff tornado brought in many residents and relatives of residents that had experienced the tornado. The program was a big hit! So much so, that we decid

Sumner’s origins trace back to Benjamin Sumner, one of the first permanent settlers in Christy Township. He arrived in 1817, building a round‑log cabin and establishing the family presence that would later give the town its name. The O & M railroad was built through Lawrence County in 1854-55 running through what would eventually become the town of Sumner. The first lots sold were on February 3, 1854. The town itself was incorporated in 1858- 59 but the state of Illinois did

The annual Lawrence County Historical Society Meeting previously scheduled for Monday Night January 26, 2026 is CANCELLED. In addition, the Research Library will NOT be open on Monday January 26, 2026.