Peoria Historical Society

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Peoria Historical Society The Peoria Historical Society preserves, shares and celebrates Peoria History. BECOME A MEMBER TODAY! https://peoriahistoricalsociety.org/memberships/ The John C.

Flanagan House Museum was built in 1837 on Peoria’s east bluff by John C. Flanagan and is the oldest standing house in Peoria. This American Federal style house offers a spectacular view of the Illinois River Valley. John C. Flanagan, a young Philadelphia lawyer, came to settle his father's estate of 600 acres. John became entranced by the beauty of the Illinois River Valley and decided to settle, build and become a land developer. Designed in the Federal style, Peoria Historical Society acquired the house in 1962 and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. Exquisite Empire furnishings and period artifacts are displayed in room settings on two floors. 18th and 19th century Peoria area history exhibits and the story of the Peoria distillery industry are also featured. Special events are held throughout the year. Collections of antique glass, china, furniture, toys, quilts, tools, and vintage clothing are displayed. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places and is owned by the Peoria Historical Society. It is also the headquarters of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Peoria Chapter.

Our dear friends at the Central Illinois Landmarks Foundation are celebrating 50 years of their Markers Program! Join th...
10/18/2026

Our dear friends at the Central Illinois Landmarks Foundation are celebrating 50 years of their Markers Program! Join them for a special cocktail celebration on Thursday, October 29, from 6–8 p.m. at the River Station. Enjoy live jazz, hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and a celebration of more than 160 CILF-marked properties.

Tickets are $50 and include a one-year membership to Central Illinois Landmarks Foundation. CILF-marked property owners attend free. For more information or to RSVP, email [email protected] or call 309-857-6844.

From the Collection: JobethcoCoffee Tin- This one-pound coffee tin from Peoria’s Jobst Bethard Company features the Jobe...
10/17/2026

From the Collection: JobethcoCoffee Tin

- This one-pound coffee tin from Peoria’s Jobst Bethard Company features the Jobethco brand, a name created by combining Jo from Jobst, Beth from Bethard, and Co from Company.
- Founded in 1902, Jobst Bethard grew into one of Illinois’ largest wholesale grocery businesses before closing in 1935. Today, pieces like this coffee tin help preserve the story of Peoria’s early businesses and everyday life.
- Your support helps us preserve pieces of Peoria’s history. Donate today and be part of sharing preserving our community’s story.

Have you seen "Joseph Petarde: Maestro of Stone" yet?Stop by the Peoria Public Library Gallery to explore this special e...
10/16/2026

Have you seen "Joseph Petarde: Maestro of Stone" yet?

Stop by the Peoria Public Library Gallery to explore this special exhibition featuring new photographs of Petarde's work taken by his great-great grandson.

107 NE Monroe St., Lower Level 1
On display now through October 28

The John C. Flanagan House Museum will be open Sunday, October 18, from 1–4 p.m.See historic pieces like this antique se...
10/15/2026

The John C. Flanagan House Museum will be open Sunday, October 18, from 1–4 p.m.

See historic pieces like this antique sewing machine and explore the rooms of the Flanagan House, where everyday objects help bring Peoria’s history to life.

John C. Flanagan House Museum
942 NE Glen Oak Ave.
Sunday, October 18 | 1–4 p.m.

The Pettengill-Morron House Museum will be open Thursday 10-2
10/14/2026

The Pettengill-Morron House Museum will be open Thursday 10-2

Join us for an informal presentation about a recent visit to Prince Edward Island, featuring photos and facts about the ...
10/13/2026

Join us for an informal presentation about a recent visit to Prince Edward Island, featuring photos and facts about the life of author Lucy Maud Montgomery. Written in 1908, the beloved children’s book Anne of Green Gables takes place in life in the charming fictional village of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island. Any fan of Anne of Green Gables will enjoy attending this presentation.

* This book club usually meets at the John C. Flanagan House, but this special presentation will take place at the Peoria Public Library.

15 Things Your Peoria Historical Society Membership Supported Over the Past Year #4 Restoration Work at 1837 Flanagan Ho...
10/12/2026

15 Things Your Peoria Historical Society Membership Supported Over the Past Year
#4 Restoration Work at 1837 Flanagan House

Your membership helps support ongoing restoration work at the Flanagan House, the oldest standing house in Peoria. Your support helps us care for this historic place and preserve its stories, architecture, and history for future generations.

Become a part of our story by becoming a member today.
peoriahistoricalsociety.org | (309) 674-1921

The final three History on the Move tours of 2026 are here and they’re HAUNTED!Join us on October 17, October 24, or Oc...
10/11/2026

The final three History on the Move tours of 2026 are here and they’re HAUNTED!

Join us on October 17, October 24, or October 31 from 4–6 p.m. for a spooky ride through Peoria’s history.

Reservations are required at 309tix.com or 309-674-1921.

Which date will you choose?

UPDATE: We’ve added an additional hayrack ride!More spots are now available for our Tanners Behind-the-Scenes Tour on Th...
10/10/2026

UPDATE: We’ve added an additional hayrack ride!

More spots are now available for our Tanners Behind-the-Scenes Tour on Thursday, October 15, from 1–2:30 p.m.

Join us for a hayrack ride, apple picking, a behind-the-scenes look at the packing shed, and c***r and donut tastings!

Get your tickets at 309tix.com or call the Peoria Historical Society office at (309) 674-1921.

Something spooky is waiting at the Pettengill-Morron House...Join us Saturday, October 24, for a spine-tingling tour of ...
10/10/2026

Something spooky is waiting at the Pettengill-Morron House...

Join us Saturday, October 24, for a spine-tingling tour of one of Peoria’s most historic homes.

👻 Tours at 6:00 & 7:00 p.m.
📍 1212 W Moss Ave.
🎟 $20 per person

Tickets are available at 309tix.com. Come if you dare!

Address

611 SW Washington Street
Peoria, IL
61602

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

+13096741921

Website

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