Learning + Experiencing = Connecting
Be a part of the transformation
Renovate to Innovate
Learning + Experiencing = Connecting
The Western Illinois Museum is a captivating and inspiring place that illuminates the stories of those who, just like us, made their lives in rural Illinois. Each phase of our renovation breathes new life into this community hub, creating a place to connect with our history and each other.
Visiting the Museum is more than just an educational experience; it's an encounter with others that offers fresh perspectives and deep insights. This is an invitation to play a crucial role in our innovative approach to running a Museum. By contributing and investing in this transformation, you help create a space for authentic connections and meaningful experiences.
Look what we've accomplished
Our well-loved old garage now has:
- New windows throughout
- An entirely new floor with in-ground electrical service
- Additional galleries in the west building
- A new open collection area
- A new Our Front Porch in the east building
NEXT: Add HVAC to the east building
Cost: $277,000
Timeline: Early 2025
How you can help
Here’s how you can make a three-year pledge or one-time donation:
Set up an automatic payment with a credit card online.
- Just click on the "Donate" button above.
- Send us a check and make it out to and mail it to Western Illinois Museum at 201 S. Lafayette St, Macomb, IL 61455
- Donate stock
Questions? Give us a call at 309.837.2750.
Here are a few suggested pledge amounts:
| Monthly Gift/ | Annual Gift/ | Total three-year Gift |
| $15 | $180 | $540 |
| $25 | $300 | $900 |
| $40 | $500 | $1,500 |
| $75 | $900 | $2,700 |
| $55 | $2,000 | $6,000 |
| $140 | $5,000 | $15,000 |
What we will be able to do
MORE Exhibits
The new floor plan creates additional exhibit spaces and moves the main gallery to the east side of the building, where the larger artifacts can be displayed. It will feature rotating thematic exhibits from the collection. Three smaller galleries will be curated to reflect the community’s interests, such as:
Gallery 1: The Military Tract and Life on the Prairie
Gallery 2: Our Community and Change
Gallery 3: Agricultural History and Culture
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MORE Programs
- Small group workshops to share traditions like learning how to make Grandma’s pie or how to pickle… anything.
- More live music and other arts programming from both local and regional artists.
- Expanded film screenings and an annual short film festival.
- Hands-on programs for families with weekly drop-in Saturday morning activities.
- Our Front Porch will welcome more authors, historians, and artists for conversations