Saturday, September 29, 2007

Southern Illinois Historic Sites

There are a number of historic sites in Southern Illinois, some operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency or the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, some by local organizations and others privately owned.

The following is an all-inclusive list.


  • Crenshaw House
    See Old Slave House

  • Fort de Chartres State Historic Site


  • Fort Kaskaskia


  • Fort Massac State Park


  • Franklin County Jail Museum
    Benton

  • Kincaid Mounds
    Brookport

  • Millstone Bluff


  • Old Slave House
    Reverse Underground Railroad site outside Equality, Illinois. Closed in 1996, but purchased by the state in 2000. Currently undergoing studies that will lead to its eventual reopening in two or three years. Best view today is at the intersection of Route 1 and Crenshaw Lane. It is not open to the public.

  • Pierre Menard Home
    Prairie du Rocher

  • Williamson County Jail Museum
    Marion

Genealogy Resource Sites in Southern Illinois

There are a number of resource sites in the region for folks researching family history. Many are located in various libraries and museums.

The following are some of the best sites around Williamson County and surrounding areas.

  • Genealogy Society of Southern Illinois - Their library is located in the back wing of the John A. Logan College Library in Carterville.
  • Jackson County Historical Society
  • Williamson County Jail Museum - Two rooms hold the Williamson County Historical Society's genealogical collection. Open Thursdays or by appointment.