National Register of Historic Places listings in Henry County, Illinois facts for kids
Welcome to Henry County, Illinois! Did you know that this county is home to many special places that are officially recognized for their history? These places are listed on something called the National Register of Historic Places. Think of it like a special hall of fame for buildings, sites, and objects that tell important stories about America's past.
There are 15 of these amazing places in Henry County. One of them is even more special and is called a National Historic Landmark! This means it's super important to the history of the entire country. Let's explore some of these cool spots!
Contents
- Exploring Henry County's Historic Treasures
- What is the National Register?
- Amazing Places in Henry County
- Andover Chapter House
- Annawan Chapter House
- Atkinson Hall
- Bishop Hill Historic District
- Frederick Francis Woodland Palace
- Galva Opera House
- Henry County Courthouse
- Olof Johnson House
- Kewanee Hotel
- Kewanee Public Library
- Jenny Lind Chapel
- Music Pavilion
- Ryan Round Barn
- South Side School
- West Water Tower and Ground Storage Tank
Exploring Henry County's Historic Treasures
What is the National Register?
The National Register of Historic Places is an official list kept by the United States government. It helps to identify, honor, and protect places that are important in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. When a place is added to this list, it means it has a unique story to tell and is worth preserving for future generations, like you!
Amazing Places in Henry County
Henry County has a rich history, and these listed places help us remember and learn about it. From old meeting houses to grand opera houses, each spot has its own tale.
Andover Chapter House
This building, located on Locust Street in Andover, was added to the National Register on November 28, 1980. Chapter houses were often meeting places for local groups or organizations, playing a role in the community's social life.
Annawan Chapter House
You can find this historic chapter house at 206 S. Depot Street in Annawan. It was also listed on the National Register on November 28, 1980. Like the Andover Chapter House, it likely served as an important community gathering spot.
Atkinson Hall
Located at 108 W. Main Street in Geneseo, Atkinson Hall joined the list on November 28, 2003. This building is a significant part of Geneseo's history, possibly serving as a public hall or a place for education and events.
Bishop Hill Historic District
This entire historic area, found off U.S. Route 34 in Bishop Hill, is very special! It became a National Historic Landmark on April 17, 1970. Bishop Hill was founded by Swedish immigrants in the mid-1800s as a religious community. Walking through it is like stepping back in time to see how early settlers lived and worked together.
Frederick Francis Woodland Palace
About 2.5 miles northeast of Kewanee on U.S. Route 34, this unique home was listed on April 14, 1975. It's known for its interesting design and the story of its builder, Frederick Francis, who created a truly special "woodland palace."
Galva Opera House
The Galva Opera House, located at 334-348 Front Street in Galva, was added to the Register on February 11, 1982. Opera houses were once popular places for entertainment, including plays, concerts, and community gatherings, making this building a hub of cultural activity in its day.
Henry County Courthouse
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You can find the Henry County Courthouse at 307 W. Center Street in Cambridge. It was listed on August 20, 2004. Courthouses are important buildings where local government and legal matters take place, and this one has served the county for many years.
Olof Johnson House
This historic home, located at 408 NW. 4th Street in Galva, was recognized on February 11, 1982. The Olof Johnson House is a great example of the architecture and lifestyle of its time.
Kewanee Hotel
The Kewanee Hotel, at 125 N. Chestnut in Kewanee, joined the National Register on February 1, 2006. Hotels like this were once central to town life, providing lodging for travelers and often hosting important events.
Kewanee Public Library
Located at 102 S. Tremont in Kewanee, the Kewanee Public Library was listed on May 31, 2006. Libraries are vital community centers, offering books, learning resources, and a quiet place for everyone to explore new ideas.
Jenny Lind Chapel
This beautiful chapel is found at the southwestern corner of the junction of 6th and Oak Streets in Andover. It was added to the Register on April 1, 1975. The chapel is named after Jenny Lind, a famous Swedish singer, and holds a special place in the history of Swedish immigration to the area.
Music Pavilion
The Music Pavilion, at 1208 5th Street in Orion, was listed on May 22, 2002. Pavilions like this were often used for outdoor concerts and community events, bringing people together through music and performances.
Ryan Round Barn
About 6 miles north of Kewanee, you'll find the unique Ryan Round Barn, which was recognized on December 31, 1974. Round barns are quite rare and were built for efficiency in farming. This one is a great example of this special type of architecture.
South Side School
The South Side School, located at 209 S. College Avenue in Geneseo, was listed on May 6, 1975. Old school buildings like this one remind us of how education has changed over the years and the importance of learning in every community.
West Water Tower and Ground Storage Tank
This interesting structure, at 310 11th Avenue in Orion, was added to the National Register on February 5, 2003. Water towers are important for providing clean water to a town, and this one represents a key part of Orion's infrastructure history.
