Illinois State Museum

One of the two lead partners in the Illinois Collections Preservation Network, the Illinois State Museum promotes discovery, learning, and an appreciation of Illinois’ natural, cultural, and artistic heritage.  The Museum’s extensive collections and research activities provide the foundation for exhibitions and public programs that tell the story of the land, life, people, and art of Illinois. The Illinois State Museum is headquartered in Springfield with branch facilities throughout the state. 

The Illinois State Museum, founded in 1877, inspires the public to discover and appreciate Illinois' rich natural and cultural heritage.  The Museum System is comprised of the ISM-Springfield, the headquarters; Research and Collections Center, Springfield; Dickson Mounds Museum, Lewistown; Chicago Gallery, Chicago; Lockport Gallery, Lockport; and the Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, Whittington.  The original research and authentic collections of the Museum provide a firm foundation for innovative exhibitions, public programs, and publications that are focused on our mission and the public interest. The Illinois State Museum has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 1972.

Illinois State Museum News/Press Room