701 Main Street, Racine, Wisconsin 53403, United States
Details
Description: Housed in a 1903 Carnegie library building, this museum is the keeper of Racine County’s stories. Its signature exhibit, “This Train Is Bound For Glory,” tells the story of Racine’s Underground Railroad—including artifacts found beneath First Presbyterian Church. The museum earned National Park Service designation as a Network to Freedom facility in 2001.
🏛️Revolutionary Connection: The museum’s Underground Railroad exhibit shows how Racine citizens risked everything to live up to the Declaration’s promise of equality. Artifacts include items from the First Presbyterian Church crawl space, documents from Joshua Glover’s rescue, and stories of the abolitionists who made it happen. Admission is FREE.
Beacons You Might Find at a Museum or Historical Society
Historical Documents
Historical societies preserve letters, diaries, land deeds, maps, business records, military records, and government documents. These are primary sources that tell authentic stories about your community’s past.
Historical Artifacts
Expect to find tools, household items, clothing, furniture, farming equipment, military items, and objects from daily life in different eras. Each artifact represents how people lived and worked in your area.
Historical Photos
Historical societies often have extensive photo archives showing buildings that no longer exist, street scenes, family portraits, local events, and changes in the landscape over time.
Historical Art
Look for paintings, drawings, or sculptures depicting local historical scenes, portraits of notable community members, or artwork that reflects the cultural heritage of your area.
Historical Markers
Many historical societies maintain information about markers throughout the community or have plaques on their own building explaining its significance.
Monuments
Some historical societies are located near or maintain information about local monuments, memorials, or commemorative structures in the area.
Historical Figures
Historical societies specialize in documenting people who shaped local history – founders, veterans, activists, business leaders, and ordinary citizens whose stories matter.
Where to Look
- Main exhibit areas and rotating displays
- Permanent collections and archives (may need to ask to view)
- Building exterior for historical markers
- Historical society website: online exhibits, digital archives, research databases
- Published materials: local history books, newsletters, research guides
Tips for Finding Beacons
- Call ahead or check hours – many historical societies have limited visiting times
- Ask staff about current exhibits and what’s available in the archives
- Many societies have online databases you can search from anywhere
- Look for walking tour maps or guides they’ve created
- Check if they have a newsletter or blog with featured stories
CONTACT
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