WATCH FOR THESE ANNUAL EVENTS

Peoria Historical Society Exhibits at the Peoria Public Library

The Historical Society has an annual exhibit at the Peoria Public Library Main Branch – Gallery Space. The 2025 show will feature artwork and artifacts from our collection. Look for upcoming information for more exhibits.

4th of July at Pettengill-Morron House Museum

The Moss Bradley Residential Association hosts a community gathering on the afternoon of July 4th. Join us at Pettengill-Morron House Museum to celebrate.

4th of July at Flanagan House Museum

Enjoy a wonderful view of the magnificent Peoria fireworks on the Illinois riverfront as you relax in the shade of the Flanagan House yard. Refreshments are available or pack your picnic. Museum House tours are also available!

Henri De Tonti Award Celebration

Each year the Historical Society honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding community leadership. Previous recipients have included Caterpillar Inc., State Senator Dave Koehler, Art and Judy Oakford, and Ray LaHood, former congressman and U.S. Secretary of Transportation.

Holiday Home Tours

A Holiday Home tour is being planned for the first weekend in December 2024. Peoria is home to some wonderful historic homes that are beautifully decorated for the holidays, along with special displays and activities. More details about the homes are coming soon. Tickets will be available in the office the first week of November, at our museum houses and through 309tix.com.

John C. Flanagan House Museum

Private Tours are available by appointment for small groups. Open House Dates are every 1st and 3rd Sunday from 1:00-4:00 PM. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and $3 for children.
For questions, private tours and special event rentals please contact the Peoria Historical Society Office at 309-674-1921.

The John C. Flanagan House Museum was built in 1837 on Peoria’s east bluff by Judge John C. Flanagan and is the oldest standing house in Peoria. This American Federalist-style house offers a spectacular view of the Illinois River Valley. Collections of antique glass, china, furniture, toys, quilts and vintage clothing are displayed. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places and is owned by the Peoria Historical Society.

Pettengill-Morron House Museum

Every Thursday Open House from 10AM – 2PM. Private Tours are available for small groups by appointment. For questions, private tours and special event rentals contact the Peoria Historical Society Office at 309-674-1921.

The Pettengill-Morron House has celebrated 150 years! When you visit learn about all of the owners, stories of abolitionists and the underground railroad, what famous actor was married in the home and other stories of Peoria’s past along with a unique collection of pieces. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places and is owned by the Peoria Historical Society.

Peoria was settled as a French fur trading outpost in 1691 under the direction of the French explorer Henri de Tonti. The first Americans settled here in 1819. The village was first officially incorporated as a town on July 18, 1835. At that time, the settlement looked much like this view which was originally drawn in August 1831 by John M. Roberts. This colored reproduction was created later by Charles Overall.