Native American & Lead Mine District Tour

Along the way, explore the rich history of the region through engaging stories and remarkable landscapes. Learn about the lifeways of the Native American and Métis communities and their relationships with the U.S. government and incoming settlers. Discover the history of lead mining and smelting and see how this important industry shaped the landscape. Explore the influential roles of the district’s early churches and gain insight into the many diverse groups of people who settled in the region between 1700 and 1900, leaving a lasting mark on its cultural heritage.

Purchase Tickets: Native American & Lead Mine District Tour

Please find the following summary of events*:

9:45 AM: Board Bus at Green St. Plaza (101 Green St, Galena)

10:00 AM: Departure

• Apple River Fort & Museum (Elizabeth, Illinois)
  • Guided tour with historical interpreters
  • Learn about frontier life and the significance of the fort
• Council Hill Station (Council Hill, Illinois)
  • Enjoy box lunch in the historic dance barn
  • Learn about the area’s mills, railroad history, and community development
  • View the historic mill, barn, and East Fork of the Galena River
• Along the Way we will travel through New Diggings and pass the historic St. Augustine’s Church (1844)
• Mazzuchelli Rectory Museum (Benton, Wisconsin)
  • Tour the home of missionary priest Samuel Mazzuchelli and learn about his influence on the region
• The Red Church
  • Discover the history of the Primitive Methodist movement in the Lead Mine District

3:00 PM: Back at Green St. Plaza in Galena

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Standard Cancellation Policy: A refund of 50% of the registration fee will be granted for cancellations received on or before August 27, 2026. All registration fees are fully non-refundable for cancellations received on or after August 28, 2026.

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to info@galenahistorymuseum.org. Refunds will be processed back to the original method of payment used at the time of registration.

*All times provided in this description are subject to change.  Any changes will be communicated to attendees prior to the event.

*Event runs rain or shine.