From Friday, May 15, through Sunday, May 17, 2026, join us in the heart of Galena for the Galena History Symposium, hosted at the historic DeSoto House Hotel in downtown Galena, Illinois. Whether you’re a scholar, student, preservationist, or curious traveler, this gathering offers a deep dive into the rich, layered history of our region.

Times will vary depending on day and event – see website for more details!

What to expect:

• Papers, panel discussions, and performances covering topics such as the mound-builder cultures, Native nations’ land rights, the booming 19th-century lead mining trade, Galena’s role as a busy Mississippi River port, and the hometown story of Ulysses S. Grant and his ally Elihu Washburne.
• A chance to engage with professional historians, avocational researchers, and preservationists. An immersive experience for both academic and traveler audiences.
• Networking and exploration of Galena’s architectural legacy: the 19th-century commercial buildings, homes, and the historic fabric that draws visitors to our town year-round.