The Knox County Museum, located in the Old Knox County Courthouse,
opened its doors in 1961. It contains over 2,000 artifacts donated
by individuals, families and businesses of the area.
Indian artifacts represent the county's first inhabitants. Uniforms, guns and other military items used by county residents represent their participation in national wars and conflicts. Antique household, agricultural and building tools reflect everyday life in the 1800's. Churches, schools and businesses no longer in existence can be remembered through pictures, books and artifacts.
Stephen A. Douglas held court in the building when he was a district
judge from 1841-1843. His desk and a top hat he wore are included in
the museum's holding. Abraham Lincoln spent the night in Knoxville on
Oct. 6, 1858, staying at the Hebard House. The next day, a procession
of local citizens escorted Lincoln to Galesburg for the Oct. 7, 1858
Lincoln-Douglas debate. Visitors may view memorabilia
from Lincoln and the great debate.
Private tours of the museum may be arranged by calling 1-309-289-6919 or the Knoxville City Hall, 1-309-289-2814. There is no admission fee but donations are accepted to help maintain the building and artifacts.
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Brown Corn-Planter The Brown Corn-Planter was patented by George W. Brown, a local farmer and carpenter, in 1853. By 1878, his company in Galesburg was manufacturing over 8,000 machines per year. |
| The Illinois State Flag This is the prototype for the Illinois State Flag, designed in 1914 by the winner of a state-wide DAR contest and currently found in the Henry Knox Room as part of the museum. |
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Lincoln Buggy This linchpin buggy was made by hand in Warren, Ohio in 1828. Abraham Lincoln first used it on Oct. 22, 1858 while traveling from Plymouth to Carthage, IL. during his campaign for the Senate. |
| Tire Shrinking Tool This model from the U. S. Patent Office is one of a collection of inventions created by Knox County residents. |
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knoxhistory@yahoo.com