Bartlett Historical Society of Illinois

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Bartlett Historical Society of Illinois BHS is an independent organization, incorporated in April 1973 and registered as a not-for-profit organization with the Illinois Secretary of State.

The Bartlett (IL) Historical Society (BHS) is a nonprofit organization comprised of members who are dedicated to fostering awareness & appreciation of Bartlett’s heritage by actively engaging community interest in the history of Bartlett through programs and other activities. BHS relies on membership dues and donations to fund its operations and activities. (BHS is not related to or a part of the Village of Bartlett Museums which are funded and managed by the Village of Bartlett and its staff.)

We had a great time sharing Bartlett history trivia with everyone who came out to Bartlett’s Picnic in the Park on Natio...
08/06/2026

We had a great time sharing Bartlett history trivia with everyone who came out to Bartlett’s Picnic in the Park on National Night Out. Many thanks to the Bartlett Police Department and all the other community organizations that make this a great community event!

Last month, some of our members enjoyed a tour of the recently re-opened Robert R. McCormick House at Cantigny Park. The...
07/09/2026

Last month, some of our members enjoyed a tour of the recently re-opened Robert R. McCormick House at Cantigny Park. The tour was led by our own Mary B. who was once a docent at the house. Have you been to Cantigny lately? In addition to the beautiful gardens and McCormick House, visitors can enjoy the First Division Museum and the Tank Park.

Yesterday we asked True or False? Bartlett was once home to a convent.It’s true!! Immaculata Convent and College was ded...
06/17/2026

Yesterday we asked True or False?
Bartlett was once home to a convent.

It’s true!! Immaculata Convent and College was dedicated in 1964. Located on West Bartlett Road, it was home to the provincial administration for the sisters of Saint Joseph. It was also home to retired and convalescing members, college personnel, and some junior members. The chapel and other parts of the convent still exist as part of Hearthwood Senior Living.

We are back with another true or false question for Tuesday Trivia! Here we go …True or False? Bartlett was once home to...
06/16/2026

We are back with another true or false question for Tuesday Trivia!
Here we go …
True or False?
Bartlett was once home to a convent.

“Like” this post if you think the statement is true. Select the laughing emoji if you think it is false.
We will post the answer on Wednesday morning.

At our June 8, 2026 meeting, longtime member Gary shared his stereopticon stereo picture viewer from the late 1800s. In ...
06/12/2026

At our June 8, 2026 meeting, longtime member Gary shared his stereopticon stereo picture viewer from the late 1800s. In addition to the viewer, he has an extensive collection of photo cards that have scenes from destinations around the world. Each card features two similar photographs that are just slightly different so when viewed through the viewer, the image appears to be three-dimensional.
The stereopticon was a marvel in its time. Other 3-D viewers followed including the Tru-Vue filmstrip viewer in 1932 and View-Master reels that were introduced at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. All used the same dual-image approach to present a three-dimensional image.

Yesterday we asked the cost of the Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department’s first piece of equipment, a hand pumper purchase...
06/10/2026

Yesterday we asked the cost of the Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department’s first piece of equipment, a hand pumper purchased in 1897. The answer? $720.
Today, the restored pumper is displayed at the Bartlett Fire District’s station on Oak Avenue.

Here’s this week’s Tuesday Trivia question. Place your answer in the comments and we’ll post the answer to our page on W...
06/09/2026

Here’s this week’s Tuesday Trivia question. Place your answer in the comments and we’ll post the answer to our page on Wednesday.

In 1897, the Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department purchased its first piece of equipment, a hand pumper. What was the cost of the hand pumper?
A. $260
B. $720
C. $340
D. $550

Yesterday we asked a question about the hourly rate of pay for Bartlett police officers in 1939. The correct answer was ...
06/03/2026

Yesterday we asked a question about the hourly rate of pay for Bartlett police officers in 1939. The correct answer was $0.50 per hour.
In 1939, the economy was still struggling to recover from the Great Depression. According to U.S. Census data, the median family wage or salary income in 1939 was $1,226. (For fun, we’ll post a 1939 grocery store advertisement in the comments for you to see what things cost.)

It’s Tuesday and we’ve got some Bartlett Trivia for you! Put your answer to this week’s question in the comments and com...
06/02/2026

It’s Tuesday and we’ve got some Bartlett Trivia for you! Put your answer to this week’s question in the comments and come back to the page tomorrow to find out the correct answer.
In 1939 the Village Marshall adopted an ordinance approving the appointment of policemen at what rate of pay?
a. $0.50 per hour for each hour on duty
b. $1.50 per hour for each hour on duty
c. $2.00 per hour for each hour on duty

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1S151 Winfield Rd
Wheaton, IL
60189

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