The Franklin Grove Area Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving local, state, and national history through the protection and interpretation of historic structures. Many of our buildings date from the 1800s to early 1900s and were carefully relocated to this site to ensure their survival for future generations.
Over the past several years, the Society has focused on revitalization and preservation after the loss of longtime members. Through fundraising, generous donations, and partnerships with local organizations and colleges, significant progress has been made to stabilize and restore buildings while planning for long-term sustainability.
Our historic village features a diverse collection of structures that reflect early settlement, craftsmanship, education, and daily life in rural Illinois. Each building offers a glimpse into the past and contributes to a living-history environment used for tours, reenactments, and educational programs.
This working-style forge represents the essential role blacksmiths played in 19th-century communities, crafting tools, hardware, and repairs that kept farms and towns running.
Once a gathering place for travelers and locals, the roadhouse reflects early hospitality and commerce along rural travel routes.
A preserved example of early residential life, the Kelly House showcases domestic architecture and family living from the period.
This structure supports ongoing preservation efforts and reflects the behind-the-scenes work required to maintain a historic site.
Overlooking prairie and woodland, this area highlights the natural landscape that has always shaped life in Franklin Grove.
Known for its distinctive roofline, the Saltbox House represents practical early-American home design.
A simple log cabin illustrating the realities of frontier life and early settlement in the region.
This historic structure represents early local enterprise and craftsmanship, reflecting the businesses that supported daily life and economic growth in the Franklin Grove area.
Used during warmer months, this building shows how families managed cooking and daily chores before modern conveniences.
A traditional gathering space used today for events, music, and community activities.
This small but important structure reflects early local law enforcement and justice systems.
A large agricultural building that has hosted weddings and events, highlighting the area’s farming heritage.
A one-room schoolhouse that tells the story of early education and rural schooling in Illinois.
This small building was used as a cafe in Franklin Grove on the north and east side of the 100 block of South Elm Street. Mabel Henry ran and cooked for the patrons who came from miles around to eat. Mabel was especially known for her pies. The Historical Society members moved and refurbished the cafe.