About Us
We operate three museum buildings and a research library on our campus–The Clark Norris Museum, the Newell Bryant Museum and the Sash Stalter Matson Building. The Bureau County History Center offers tours featuring artifacts and stories from our county! Unless otherwise noted, all text and photos in the website are property of the Bureau County History Center. Available Resources include: Birth, wedding, anniversary files, family histories, military histories of Bureau County residents, local history books, The H.W. Immke Photography Collection 1868-1923, Bill Lamb Collection 1937-2013
Tours Available
Reservations for tours are encouraged. Friday and Saturday tours are at 2:00 p.m and 4:00 p.m. Please call 815-875-2184 or use our Contact Form for a private tour or research request. Staff is also available to assist you by phone or email.
Become a Member
Benefits of becoming a member include:
- Free quarterly newsletter
- Free admission to the museum
- Advance notice of special programs
- Invitation to Member only events
Hours of Operation
Museum Hours
Friday & Saturday-Noon through 5:00pm. Last available tour is at 4:00pm both days. We also will give tours by appointment on other days of the week.
Research Room & Business Office Hours:
Tuesday through Friday-Noon through 5:00 pm
Our Mission
The primary mission of the Bureau County Historical Society and History Center in operating its museums is to educate the public on the history of Bureau County and the surrounding area through the collection, preservation, interpretation and exhibit of artifacts and related materials.