Since 1834, our town has been home to generations of people who have shared an appreciation for Glen Ellyn’s beautiful setting and strong sense of community. The Glen Ellyn Historical Society — through its mission to research, collect, preserve and present the history of this region — educates and engages the community in understanding the effect of its heritage on the present and future.

Founded in 1969, the Glen Ellyn Historical Society works to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the people who pioneered this region. Educational programs, special events, exhibits, publications, first-person portrayals, and student outreach programs augment and enhance school curricula.

The Historical Society operates Stacy’s Tavern Museum as a learning and tourist center. The first building in DuPage County to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is the only fully restored stagecoach inn on its original foundation in the state.

Historical Society publications include “Glen Ellyn: A Village Remembers,” an expansive history of the area, and a history of Community Consolidated School District 89, “The Question: How Old? The Answer: 1843.” Both works won an award for excellence from the Illinois Association of Museums. Also, the Historical Society recently published “Stories from Glen Ellyn’s Past Volume I: Tales of Murder, Mayhem, Infidelity, Pranks and Other Intriguing Tidbits of Glen Ellyn History.”
Plans for the future include development of a history park on the north side of Glen Ellyn. The History Park Capital Campaign, launched in 2000, has raised more than $3 million in pledges and donations from individuals, businesses and organizations. The society hopes to raise an additional $3.2 million for land acquisitions, development and endowment.

The History Park will feature period gardens and open space; a stagecoach presentation area; new retail store; visitors center; and a reproduction of the Mineral Springs pavilion, a unique architectural feature of early Glen Ellyn. When completed, the park will provide first-hand experiences in a broad cross-section of local and period history; expand archive and research facilities, add exhibit space and interactive displays; provide proper storage for artifacts and collections; improve walkways, parking and traffic patterns; and beautify the north entrance to Glen Ellyn. Visitors will generate an economic boost to the area.

For more information on the Glen Ellyn Historical Society: info@gehs.org, www.gehs.org, (630) 858-8696.