Blog

Arcada Prepares to 'Raise the Curtain' on Next Chapter

Arcada Prepares to 'Raise the Curtain' on Next Chapter

Earlier this year when COVID-19 put a halt to live music and shows of all kinds, the future of many theaters across the country was cast into doubt. Without being able to have shows, the halls of many venues across the country have fallen quiet, waiting for the days they can have visitors again. But that wasn't the case for the Arcada Theatre.

157 Years Later: The Battle of Gettysburg

157 Years Later: The Battle of Gettysburg

The circumstances leading up to the greatest battle ever fought in the western hemisphere made July 1st-3rd 1863 some of the most pivotal days in American history. The first shot of the Battle of Gettysburg is credited to Lt. Marcellous Jones, an 8th Illinois Cavalryman who mustered and trained here in St. Charles, IL at the site of Camp Kane (Langum Park today).

Lessons from 1918 Flu Pandemic Visible Today

Lessons from 1918 Flu Pandemic Visible Today

Over 100 years ago, the world lost approximately 6% of its total population. 100 million individuals were wiped out over the course of one year. The 1918 Influenza, the “Spanish Flu,” remains to this day one of the deadliest natural disasters in human history. The lessons learned from this historical event have helped guide us as we fight a new strain of virus.

Documenting History: COVID Community Journal

Documenting History: COVID Community Journal

As our community faces uncertain times during a worldwide pandemic, we have already seen many examples of generosity and selflessness all around St. Charles as the community works to rally and help each other during this trying time. Follow this live blog for updates as we write our collective history together.

A Grave Robbing, A Gunfight, and A Séance: The Story of The Richards' Riot of 1849

A Grave Robbing, A Gunfight, and A Séance: The Story of The Richards' Riot of 1849

On this date in 1849, the sleepy settlement of St. Charles was turned on its head by an angry mob of protesters who had descended on the town from nearby Sycamore in one of the most tragic, wild, and mysterious events in St. Charles’ history.

100 Years After Suffrage, A Look Back at Some of the Women Who Shaped St. Charles

100 Years After Suffrage, A Look Back at Some of the Women Who Shaped St. Charles

In celebration of this historic landmark year, the St. Charles History Museum will be celebrating the legacy of local women who fought for suffrage and helped to shape St. Charles into the city it is today in our fall temporary exhibit. In preparation of the exhibit and in honor of Women’s History Month, take a look at some of the most influential women in St. Charles history.