Society of Architectural Historians [IL]

Description

"The Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) is an international not-for-profit membership organization that promotes the study and preservation of the built environment worldwide." SAH publishes several works, including a series of guidebooks, a newsletter, and a journal. In addition, SAH offers more than 40 fellowships annually, with topics ranging from research to preservation.

The site offers general information about the society, an events calendar, an online store with all works published by the society, membership information, and information regarding the SAHARA archive.

Jubilee College State Historic Site [IL]

Description

Note: As of January 2011, site is closed due to short staffing. Check site for status.
The Jubilee College State Historic Site preserves the remnants of Jubilee College, which was founded in 1839 by Philander Chase, the first Episcopal Bishop of Illinois. The school included a theological seminary, a college, a classical preparatory school for boys, a seminary for girls, and some small farming operations. Now, visitors can tour the school, which has been partially restored to its 19th century state. In particular, visitors are offered a guided tour of the recreated chapel/schoolroom/dormitory wing and the recreated library and schoolmaster's office.

The site is part of the greater Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA) website, and so only offers minimal visitor information regarding Jubilee College, but does offer links to the greater resources of the IHPA and other historic sites in Illinois, including Abraham Lincoln's presidential library.

Jarrot Mansion State Historic Site [IL]

Description

Nicholas Jarrot was a French born entrepreneur and land speculator who also served as a local judge and militia officer. Jarrot began construction of his mansion in 1807, and was one of the earliest buildings built with brick in the state of Illinois. In addition, the home is notable for its use of the American Federal architecture style, not the more common French Colonial style prevalent in the midwest during the time period. Currently, the house is under restoration and is only opened periodically to the public for special events.

The site provides visitors with historical information regarding the house, current information on the restoration projects, a photo gallery featuring nine historical and present photographs of the mansion, a calendar of events, and links to local historical sites and organizations.

Ridge Historical Society [IL]

Description

The Ridge Historical Society is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1971 in order to preserve and promote the history of the Chicago neighborhoods of Beverly Hills, Morgan Park, and Washington Heights. The Ridge Historic District is one of the largest urban districts on the National Register of Historic Places. The Society is especially focused on preserving the architectural history of the area along with personal history of area residents.

The site offers historical information in the form of feature stories that explore one area of history in depth. In addition, the site offers information about upcoming and past events, as well as general information about the Society.

Illinois State Fire Museum [IL] Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 01/08/2008 - 13:28
Description

The Illinois State Fire Museum is located in Springfield, Illinois, was opened in 1994 and is owned and operated by the State Fire Marshal. The Fire Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of patches, with patches from throughout Illinois, the United States and even Europe. The museum also holds several pieces of antique firefighting gear, along with a children's interactive, educational computer room. Here, children can learn about fire safety. The museum is available to the public by appointment.

The site offers links to the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshall with information about fire safety. No information beyond a general overview is available on the museum.

A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum [IL]

Description

The A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum promotes, honors, and celebrates the legacy of A. Philip Randolph and contributions made by African Americans to America's labor history. The Museum facility educates the public about the legacy and contributions of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters. The permanent collection displays exhibits which are pertinent to the study of the Pullman Historic District, the Great Migration, American labor history, A. Philip Randolph, the Pullman Porters, and the American Civil Rights Movement.

The museum offers exhibits.

Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois

Description

The Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois has been dedicated to preserving historic structures throughout the state of Illinois since 1971. Landmarks Illinois focuses on advocating succesfully for the preservation of historical structures across the state, and has been instrumental in both stalling efforts to demolish historic buildings as well as pushing for new legislation that favors preservation.

The site offers a wealth of information about preservation projects undertaken by the society, both past and present, as well as resources for users looking to aid in the preservation of structures important to them.

Naper Settlement [IL]

Description

The Naper Settlement's living history museum tells the story of daily life in Naperville as it changed from a simple frontier outpost to a bustling turn-of-the-century community.

The settlement offers exhibits, tours, demonstrations, research library access, educational programs, and recreational and educational events (including living history events). The website offers information about the history of Naper settlement as well as current information for visitors.

Stephen A. Douglas Tomb

Description

This scenic park south of downtown Chicago is the burial place of distinguished statesman Stephen Arnold Douglas (1813–1861). The Douglas Monument Association was organized in 1861 to build a suitable memorial at the gravesite. In 1864 the Association adopted the design of Illinois sculptor Leonard W. Volk. During operating hours visitors may enter the Tomb and view the sarcophagus containing the Senator’s remains. Staff are available to provide information concerning Douglas and aspects of the Tomb’s history.

The tomb offers interpretative staff available to answer questions and occasional commemorative events.