Welcome to the Bureau County History Center

Explore the history of Bureau County with two museums and a research library!

A Bridge For the Ages

We are thrilled to collaborate with the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce and give everyone an intimate look at our beloved Red Covered Bridge. All photos have been voluntary submitted for publication through our social media platform, Facebook, through electronic mail or other methods for this commemorative publication.

Portraits Exhibit

The Bureau County History Center invites the public to attend its first exhibit of 2025: Portraits! Curator Jessica Gray has opened the archives and chosen images and portraits that have rarely been seen, or in many cases, have never been on display.

About Us

We operate three museum buildings and a research library on our campus–The Clark Norris Museum, the Newell Bryant Museum and the Sash Stalter Matson Building. Available Resources include: Birth, wedding, anniversary files, family histories, military histories of Bureau County residents, local history books, The  H.W. Immke Photography Collection 1868-1923, Bill Lamb Collection 1937-2013

Tours Available

Reservations for tours are encouraged. Friday and Saturday tours are at 2:00 p.m and 4:00 p.m. Please call 815-875-2184 or use our Contact Form for a private tour or research request. Staff is also available to assist you by phone or email.

Become a Member

Benefits of becoming a member include:

  • Free quarterly newsletter
  • Free admission to the museum
  • Advance notice of special programs
  • Invitation to Member only events

Hours of Operation

Museum Hours:
Friday & Saturday-Noon through 5:00pm. Last available tour is at 4:00pm both days. We also will give tours by appointment on other days of the week.

Research Room & Business Office Hours:
Tuesday through Friday-Noon through 5:00pm

Our Mission

The primary mission of the Bureau County Historical Society and History Center in operating its museums is to educate the public on the history of Bureau County and the surrounding area through the collection, preservation, interpretation and exhibit of artifacts and related materials.