Research
Oral Histories
Collections
Nine Generals
Galena History
Genealogic & Property Research
History of Jo Daviess County
Bio Sketches of Famous Galenians
Civil War
Resources for Your Research Project
Resources for your Research Project
Are you working on family genealogy or writing a book on Galena, Jo Daviess County, or related history? The Galena-Jo Daviess County Historical Society and Museum has thousands of artifacts and archive materials available for research. For those looking to conduct research in the collection are required to make an appointment 72 hours in advance and at the availability of the staff. For those unable to visit the museum, limited research may be done on a topic (at the availability of the staff).
High Resolution Images of the collection are available for reproduction.
Research and reproduction costs may apply. Contact staff for more information.
Researching Jo Daviess County Ancestors and Historic Properties
Search through the museum’s collection of literally thousands of artifacts-many of which have never been on display-using our new Historical Research Station. Everyone from the student researcher to the casual genealogist can discover something new at the Galena History Museum. Stop in daily between 9:00am – 4:30pm. It’s free and easy!
We have compiled a list of online resources with links to their websites. We also have some general guidelines on how to get started on your project – with the links provided you have a wealth of information readily available.
These printable sheet provides some practical starting points:
Researching Jo Daviess County Ancestors (PDF)
Researching Jo Daviess County Property (PDF)
One of the most frequent inquiries the Historical Society receives are questions relating to family histories or a recently purchased historic property. A wealth of information exists, but where to go and how to get started are usually the obstacles. Here is a summary of the resources available for genealogical and property research.
• Historical Society’s Research Center
• Galena Public Library Historical Collections Room
• Jo Daviess County Courthouse
• Jo Daviess County Illinois GenWeb site
• RuskinARC – This project maps and identifies properties within the Galena National Register Historic District. This project is the result of work supported by The Galena Foundation.
• Archive.org – Like a paper library, they provide free access to researchers, historians, scholars, the print disabled, and the general public. There are some wonderful Galena resources available here.