galena / jo daviess county historical society and museum

This quirky but wonderful little museum is housed in an old mansion off the main drag, but holds countless treasures and displays. Tries to portray many different facets of Jo Daviess county and Galena, from the drift less aspect (the glaciers passed Galena by and created the very hilly terrain), to the lead mining era, which made Galena more populous than Chicago for awhile, to the steamboat traffic that went up and down the river that runs through town, to artifacts from US Grant, a famous resident, and so on. There is even a back room where you can enter and look down on the lead mine that this particular mansion had in its back yard, as so many homes did in the mid 1800's. We go back time and time again and always find something new!

We enjoyed our tour of this museum and learned a lot about former President Grant. There was quite a bit of information available about both Grant and the town of Galena but one had to take the time to read through it. The holographic display on entering was entertaining but not particularly informative, However, the actual displays while less entertaining, were most informative.This is a small museum and will only take a bit over an hour (perhaps two) to tour, even reading most of the information. The old mine shaft is quite fascinating and is not to be missed (it easily could be). This is a real lead mine shaft from the days when Galena was the center of a vibrant lead mining industry.The cost is $8.00 per person.

Because I was using a walker the day we visited I was unable to take the stairs to see exhibits there; they graciously allowed us to deduct my admission price. Curator was knowledgeable, engaging and clearly (and deservedly) proud; gave us some personal attention which was unexpected and appreciated.

I think this museum has a lot of potential. There are some very interesting displays, but many of the descriptions are too hard to read, what with small print and poor lighting. There was also some renovation going on, which was a bit disruptive in terms of noise and displacement of some things.When we first entered the museum welcome room, the only gal there was too busy on her phone to welcome us and then she reminded us it would cost us $8 to visit the museum. But we were able to see a hologram welcome by Mr. and Mrs. Grant before deciding. That was very good. I just think there needs to be someone there more welcoming, as there was at Grants' home.I do recommend the museum, but only wish it were better presented. Great potential!

Enjoyed learning about the history of this area and Grant's ties to it. Includes an original mine shaft and hologram display of Grant and his wife sharing history too. Quite interesting for this small town!

You start out with a welcome introduction by actors playing General and Mrs. Grant. This is a museum about the civil war and the Galena Economy. It was a great way to understand the history of the town.

Much to see on a brief visit. Staff very helpful and tons of brochures to answer your own questions in detail.

This small museum is packed full of interesting historical artifacts from the area. Did you know that Abraham Lincoln stood on the balcony of the downtown hotel to give a speech. And the hotel is still operating today!

The mine shaft exhibit part of the museum was neat. I came to Galena on country Fair days. Too crowded at Grant Park so we went to the museum.Very neat museum with a lot of exhibits. I recommend to all people. All people.

I find history museums to be boring a lot of the time, but this one was not. There is quite a bit of reading involved but the content was written in an engaging and colorful manner. The stories evolve and carry the visitor through the various ebbs and flows of Galena history. I liked the collection of artifacts too, particularly the old bike, apothecary stuff, and mining equipment. The models and displays were helpful tools.

It was worth the small entrance fee to see this historical painting - $7.00 senior rate. Many interesting Civil War facts but not enough time to read it all. Well kept museum and shows the pride Galena has in the part their town played in the war.

Incredible Collection. Look for US Grant's cigar and the painting in the upper hallway. Fun lead mine to look into as well.

This is a small, home grown Museum with many interesting things about Galena and General Grant. We enjoyed it. We didn't know much about the history of the area and it gave us a good overview of it's early settling and General Grant's life. People are friendly and helpful. Price is very reasonable...$7. You can park nearby, then walk down to Main by the steps across the street. The architecture along Bench is also interesting. If you aren't mobile, this town may be difficult.

Nice collection of civil war items especially as related to service of Grant. Geological displays as well

This is a great little museum where you can learn about the history of Galena and US Grant. It will really make your visit much richer if you understand why this little town even exists. Great stop for history buffs!