Galesburg, Illinois

Galesburg, Illinois' total size may measure less than 20 square miles, but the city is brimming with history. The city came into existence in the 1820s, as the site for Knox College, and quickly began making a name for itself within American history. In 1837, only a year after the first 25 settlers have arrived, Galesburg became a stop on the Underground Railroad, a clandestine network that helped tens of thousands escape from slavery. It was also the fifth, and most famous, stop of the historic Lincoln-Douglas debates. The debate was held at the Old Main building of Knox College, which still stands in its original full glory. Designed in the style of the day – Collegiate Gothic – and designated as a National Historic Landmark, not least because it is the only remaining site of the debates, the building had been greatly admired since its completion in 1857 and continues to remain an rchitectural marvel.

The city is also connected with the history of America's railroads. It was one of the few cities with multiple railroads and railroad depots, becoming the shipping center of the region. Though trains may have gone out of fashion these days, the city has not forgotten its past. Every year in June Railroad Days takes place. A multi-day family festival whose many attractions will delight even the most discriminating railroad connoisseur. Those who simply can not wait a whole year to get their railroad fill, can visit the Galesburg Railroad Museum, a hotspot for railroad memorabilia.

Galesburg also contributed to the culture of America. It is the birthplace of Carl Sandburg a highly accomplished historian and poet who won two Pulitzers for his biography on Lincoln and his own collection of poetry. The city pays homage to this homegrown legend every year with the Sandburg Days Festival, which highlight Sandburg's many artistic achievements through readings, plays, writers' workshops, and live music. Of course one needs not to wait a whole year to find out more about Mr. Sandburg. The poet's home has been lovingly preserved by dedicated Carl Sandburg Historic Site Association and turned into a museum, where visitors can learn more about Carl's formative years. Attached to the house is humble theater that is the stage for many frequent live performances.

Speaking of the performing arts, the Orpheum Theatre deserves a mention as well. Originally opened in 1916, it was a luxurious theater house that played host to such American legends as Houdini, Al Jolson, George Burns, and the Marx Brothers. Forced to close due to financial difficulties in 1982, the theater has undergone extensive rnovations and now is once again open all the public in its original bedazzlement, attracting stars from all over the world.

Of course this is only a small sampling of what lies in store for you. It's up to you to make your own history.

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