History is not dead! It’s very much alive here in Byron. We invite you to visit, view our exhibits and participate in our events. This is only a partial list of what’s happening at the Museum; please call us at 815.234.5031 to learn more.

Albert Goodwill Spalding

Albert Goodwill Spalding, professional baseball player and famous sporting goods manufacturing founder, was born right here in Byron, Illinois in 1850. Come see our exhibit featuring 1850’s baseball uniforms, Spalding artifacts, and baseball lore.

Tours

The Museum offers scheduled tours and presentations to organizations, clubs, schools, businesses, and family groups - anyone who wants to learn more about local history! Tours can feature a general informational guide through the museum or focus on specific topics like the Underground Railroad. We also offer activities such as butter making and or crafts if scheduled in advance.

From Shackles to Freedom

Did you know the part that quilts may have played in the history of the Underground Railroad? Did you know that the original owners of the Read House were abolitionists and participated in the Underground Railroad? The Lucius Read House was constructed in the early 1840s. In spring 2002 the house was officially recognized by the NPS as a site in the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom program. Preserving this historic treasure and presenting local history is what we’re all about. Come visit us and learn some exciting new things about this historical treasure.

The Lucius Read House & the Read/Parsons Family

Historic photographs and stories about the original residents of this Nineteenth century brick structure. This is a permanent exhibit.

1910 Model of Byron

See what Byron looked like in the early 1900s. Learn about the devastating fire of 1877 which destroyed a good portion of downtown. An audio program provides visitors with the story of the importance of railroads in Byron’s history and growth. This is a permanent exhibit.

Old Time Farming

Take a walk back and view what farming was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s. More than 50 artifacts make up this collection, which is on long-term loan from an area resident.

Women’s Club Name Quilt

This quilt was made by local women in the 1950s and was made as a fundraiser for the women’s group of the United Church of Byron. For $1, area residents could add their names to the quilt. Over 760 names appear on this wonderful quilt.

Byron Schools

This exhibit features a photo display, artifacts and books. The exhibit tells the story of early schools in Byron and exemplifies the importance of education to residents then and now.

Byron Post Offices

This collection includes a block of Post Office Boxes and other items on permanent loan from the Byron Post Office. The exhibit demonstrates the changes in Byron’s postal service through the years.

Pit Toilet Digs

Ever wonder what you might find in an old outhouse pit? An exhibit of artifacts uncovered during several pit toilet digs includes broken chamber pots, toys, medicine bottles and some other surprises. Ever wonder what it would be like to dig an old outhouse pit? Find out by volunteering for our dig program and learn about “outhouse archeology” first hand.

The Hat Collection

The old red cabinet, which once held notions and such in Barrick’s store, now houses a lovely collection of hats dating from the 1920s to the 1960s. The collection is on long-term loan from a Museum staff member and her Grandmother.

Dolls, Dolls, Dolls

Byron resident Joy Strub, who is still known to her former second grade students as Mrs. Strub, graciously donated her marvelous collection of dolls and dollhouses to the museum. The collection includes international dolls, handcrafted folk dolls, paperdoll books, antiques and contemporary collectibles. Both adults and children will enjoy this grand display!

Gift Shop

The museum gift shop features books, collectible mugs, other items. New things are always being added, including museum mementos and children’s items.