The most Unique historic community in Central Illinois.
Jacksonville was a beacon of education and service in the early history of the United States, and that shining history still exists in our community today. The beautiful federal-style structure is the perfect location to showcase our ever-growing collection to tell our community’s compelling stories.
The Museum is also the home of the MacMurray College archive collection, which is on long-term loan from the MacMurray Foundation for preservation, display and interpretation.
Visit the Jacksonville Area Museum on Facebook.
The Museum is undertaking a major expansion and remodeling through early 2027.
The musuem will remain open during construction, but some exhibits
and galleries may close or change with short notice.
Accessibility may be limited during this time.
PLEASE CALL (217) 408-1197 with any questions.
RECENT & ONGOING HIGHLIGHTS
Journey To Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad
April 11, 2026 thru August 1, 2026
The museum is pleased to host, Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad. The courageous stories of freedom seekers, and the multi-racial conductors who assisted them, are highlighted in this new exhibit about the Underground Railroad in Illinois. Learn about the network of people, who often at great risk to themselves, collaborated to assist those searching for freedom and dignity. This exhibit is provided by the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area, and accompanied by supportive programs and events. Check out our EVENTS page for more information about the programs.
Transforming Lives – MacMurray College
The Jacksonville Area Museum is proud to be a partner with the MacMurray Foundation and Alumni Association. The archives and collections from the College’s history is archived within our building displayed in “Mac Hall.” We encourage Mac alumni and the public to come learn about the history of this long-standing institution that graced our community for generations.
1975 Time Capsule Display
In 1975, Jacksonville created a time capsule for the inhabitants of Jacksonville in 2025 for the city’s 200th Anniversary. The museum is proud to host a rotating display of these items in our main lobby during this 200th Anniversary season.
THIS WON’T HURT A BIT – Jacksonville’s Dr. Greene Vardiman Black
Jacksonville’s Dr. Greene Vardiman Black was a curious inventor, scientist, and teacher who changed the way dentists care for patients. Through his discoveries, inventions, and dedication to education, Dr. Black helped transform dentistry into the modern profession we know today.
Illinois State Hospital
The history of Jacksonville and West-Central Illinois is intertwined with the many institutions that contributed to the character and development of our communities. The Illinois State Hospital was one the leading institutions, and existed as a ‘city within a city’ on the southern border of Jacksonville. This new exhibit explores the places, people, and new approach to caring for people in our state. This exhibit is currently on display on an open-ended run at the museum.
NEWS
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Calling All Jacksonville Area Creatives!
The Jacksonville Area Museum is looking for 100 participants of all ages to combine their talents into one large collective interpretation of Jacksonville on a large scale. 100 canvases are waiting to be adopted by local artists. Each comes with a small square photo of a larger work, which we are asking YOU to interpret
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“Walk With Heroes” Underground Railroad cemetery tour
“Walk With Heroes,” a guided cemetery tour of Underground Railroad conductor grave sites, will be held Saturday, July 11 at 6 p.m. at Diamond Grove Cemetery, 1601 Lincoln Road in Jacksonville. The event, which is free and open to the public, is being held in conjunction with the Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad exhibit
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Juneteenth panel discussion, June 19
The process, excitement and challenges of making stories like the Underground Railroad come alive during the Social Media Age will be the focus of a panel discussion to be held on Juneteenth, Friday, June 19 at 6 p.m. at Centenary United Methodist Church at 331 E. State Street in Jacksonville. The event, which is free