Welcome to the Bureau County History Center

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

Military Appreciation Exhibit

The Bureau County Historical Society has reimagined its Veterans Exhibit with a new display of artifacts, uniforms and stories as part of National Military Appreciation Month in May. The month-long celebration will feature a new exhibit at the Newell Bryant Museum and programs at the Princeton Public Library.

Getting to Know Grace Exhibit

The Bureau County Historical Society Museum announces a revealing exhibit on Grace Clark Norris and her family. We invite you to travel back in time to learn the history of this prominent Bureau County family – from the early days of the Civil War to post-WWII, from Dover to LaMoille to Princeton.

Meet Princeton's First Female Mail Carrier

Women were not eligible to take the Civil Service examination for rural carrier at this time. Despite this, the Bureau County Tribune reported in November 1917, that “(Edith’s) service has been highly satisfactory to the patrons of Route 6 and the order to dismiss her has caused the protest of 234 of these patrons who eagerly signed the petition.”

About Us

We operate two museum buildings and a research library. 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. Last tour of any weekday starts at 4:00 p.m. 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:
Wednesday through Saturday-Noon through 5:00pm

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