By Tessa Flak, Executive Director
Just a week from awarding a construction contract to a local firm to build the new history museum, the Galena-Jo Daviess County Historical Society learned its $1.8 million federal grant has been frozen.
Since receiving the construction grant from U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) in 2022, the Society has worked tirelessly to raise the required matching funds for the $10.4 million project. The federal grant, along with its match, accounts for 35% of the total cost to build a modern, accessible museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Galena-Jo Daviess County’s rich history.
“We finally had all the funding in place to move forward with construction,” said Doug Hilgendorf, Board President of the Historical Society & Museum. “Groundbreaking was planned for this spring.”
According to economic impact studies by Northern Illinois and Iowa State University, the new Galena & U.S. Grant Museum would result in these benefits by 2030: 300% increase in museum attendance, local revenue driven by museum visitors up 2.5 times, total economic impact of $1.7 million from local visitor spending, support or creation of 65-70 jobs throughout the region, and visitor spending resulting in approximately $8.3M.
This museum isn’t just about preserving history; it’s also a critical driver of local economic growth, which is why it’s so important that we keep moving forward.
However, the legality of withholding pre-approved federal funds will likely be determined through the courts, a process that could cause further delays for the Galena project and other initiatives caught in the federal funding limbo.
“Every day of delay means rising construction costs, making the overall project even harder to complete,” said Jim Durrant, Board Treasurer.
Adding insult to injury, if the Society cannot move forward expeditiously with construction, two other approved grants are in jeopardy: a $576K matching grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and a $450K matching grant from the Illinois Economic Development tourism attractions program.
Despite these financial challenges, the museum’s staff and officials remain optimistic. They are exploring alternative funding options, working with the state, local and private partners to secure the resources needed.
Inspired by its hometown hero, Ulysses S. Grant, the Society is determined to push through these obstacles and secure a victorious outcome.
“But time is of the essence, states Durrant. “If we don’t act quickly, the funding we have worked so hard to secure could slip away, along with the opportunity to build a museum that will serve as a lasting legacy for Galena’s future.”
Society officials are encouraging the public to help in three ways: 1) Contact your elected officials and let them know how important this project is to our community, urging them to push for the release of the frozen federal funds; 2) Make a donation—whether large or small—it will help keep the momentum going; 3) Finally, consider volunteering your time and skills, as every bit of support can make a difference.
“This museum is more than just a building, said Hilgendorf. “It’s a symbol of what our community can achieve when we come together. We’re committed to opening the museum in 2026 and are actively seeking alternative funding solutions to keep the project alive. But we need the support of everyone who believes in our vision. Galena’s history deserves to be preserved, and its future deserves a cultural hub that will provide jobs, attract tourists, and bring the community together. Please take action today to help us make this dream a reality.”
Telegraph Herald: “Funding freeze confusion stalls Galena museum project” article