Step back in time and discover Sycamore's treasures while visiting "Lost Sycamore". This exhibit features Olympic torches, trophies from Sycamore's semi-professional baseball team, and reproduction items that were commonly available to be purchased in 1894 Sycamore. Don't forget to look at the items highlighted in "Hidden Sycamore". You are invited to examine photos of places that appear lost, but reveal their past when you take a closer look.
The museum also has an archive and presents programs on local history. Call for more information.
Please contact Michelle Donahoe if you have items that you would like to donate to the Sycamore History Museum’s collection. All items must have a connection to Sycamore's history.
Class reunion, family reunion, entertaining out of town guests?
The Sycamore History Museum offers a variety of engaging presentations about Sycamore History. Call the Museum
to schedule an appointment.
Interested in Sycamore's history? Like talking to people? Don’t like talking to people, but like looking at artifacts, photographs and letters? Volunteer at the Sycamore History Museum! Volunteers serve in a variety of roles the Sycamore History Museum, and play a vital job in helping the Museum achieve its mission.
The mission of the Sycamore History Museum in operating its museum and archives is to collect, preserve, interpret, and exhibit significant materials relating to Sycamore and the surrounding area, and to provide related educational services for the purpose of increasing and enriching public knowledge of Sycamore for its members, supporters, visitors, students and researchers. The act of acquisition, accession, and deaccession shall reflect these stated purposes.
The Sycamore History Museum was founded in 1999. With the generosity of many people's time, talents and financial contributions the Society opened their first museum at 215 W. Elm Street
in 2000.
In June 2009, the Museum opened at it permanent location, 1730 N. Main Street with "Journey Stories" a traveling Smithsonian exhibit provided by the Museum on Main Street. Over 2000 people from throughout the region
visited and attended programs.
The Museum houses a significant artifact collection which reflects daily life and special events in Sycamore history. Highlights include textiles, sports memorabilia – including the 1984 Olympic torch, marketing materials from local businesses, agricultural and Pumpkin Fest items. Only a portion of the collection is on display in exhibits.
The Sycamore History Museum has a large archival collection. Most requested resources include genealogical materials, information about property, general business records, but there is much more. Please email or call with specific research questions. Appointments recommended.
Business, church, school, and service club records, along with maps, photographs,and reference books.
The museum offers a variety of educational programs for children, families, adults,scouts and groups. Exhibits change on an annual basis. Check our website for details.
The museum is governed by a board of directors. We are a private-non-profit museum
Access: General Public
Appointment required: False
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