Mission
To preserve, share and celebrate the stories of the Peoria area.
Vision
To be the community resource and advocate for historical preservation and research on the Peoria area, its organizations, and its people.
Henri de Tonti Award Celebration
Each year, the Historical Society honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding community leadership. This year we plan to honor Linda Daley with a dinner gala. Tickets will be available at the PHS office.
History Tours
Throughout spring, summer and fall, our certified Historical Society guides lead “History on the Move Historic Bus Tours,” providing a unique opportunity to view many historic homes and venues in the Peoria area. Guides provide fascinating stories and information. Tickets for tours will be available at 309Tix.com.
Custom “step-on” tours with a PHS-certified guide can also be arranged for organizations that provide their own private transportation or want a private group on our bus. A customized historic tour can also be combined with a tour of one or both historic house museums.
56th Annual Rennick Art Show
The Peoria Historical Society presents the 56th annual Rennick History Thru Art Show at the Peoria Riverfront Museum from May 8-29, 2021. All artwork is done by local artists and has historical significance to Peoria. Artists can find submission information on our website. View the art show in person or virtually.
Museum Houses
Plan a visit or schedule your event at our museum houses. The John C. Flanagan House Museum at 942 NE Glen Oak Avenue was built in 1837 on Peoria’s east bluff by John C. Flanagan and is the oldest standing house in Peoria.
The Pettengill-Morron House Museum at 1212 W. Moss Avenue was built in 1868 for Moses Pettengill (1802-1883) in the Second Empire architectural style. Check our website for open house tour dates or plan a private tour or event by calling the office.
Holiday Home Tours
Enjoy our annual tour of historic homes that have been decorated for the holidays, along with special displays and activities. The event falls on the first Saturday and Sunday each December. Enjoy this year’s tour virtually. Watch the Peoria Historical Society’s website for details.
How to Help
Visit us online at peoriahistoricalsociety.org, become a member, and like us on Facebook: @PeoriaHistoricalSociety.
Tour our historic house museums, attend our various events, and enjoy the guided history tours. Become a volunteer. Call the office for more information.
Peoria Historical Society
611 SW Washington Street
Peoria, IL 61602
(309) 674-1921
peoriahistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
[email protected]
Facebook: @PeoriaHistoricalSociety
Colleen O. Johnson, Executive Director
Maureen Naughtin, Curator
Janet Gysin, Office Manager
