Savanna Museum and Cultural Center

Details

Open Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. from the first weekend in May through the last weekend in October, or tours by appointment

The Savanna Museum & Cultural Center offers exciting and constantly changing events and traveling exhibits. The historic, 3-story building was renovated with over 50 volunteers contributing over 8,000 volunteer hours. In 2010, the society received the Illinois Governor’s Hometown Award for its efforts. 

Gallery of Civil War Soldiers
The Gallery of Civil War Soldiers tells a hundred short stories about the Civil War. This collection is the life’s work of local history teacher Professor Gene Wright, who has hand-made over 100 life-size mannequins, all dressed in authentic replicas of Civil War-era uniforms. Each mannequin has his or her own story. From a twelve-year-old drummer boy to the Greybeard Regiment to the woman who served as a man, each mannequin shines a light on a special historical moment.

HO Model Railroad
The “Workin’ on the Railroad” exhibit on the second floor includes a 1000-square-foot HO model railroad that tells the story of Savanna’s transcontinental railroad history. This meticulously crafted display is being developed through the artistry of five area-scale model club members, and model railroad buffs will not want to miss this world-class exhibit.

Wayne King
The Wayne King room contains a collection of memorabilia that celebrates the native son and famous big-band musician, Wayne King. Other displays include many railroad artifacts and items from the now-closed Savanna Ordnance Depot.

Helen Scott Hay
A daughter of Carroll County, Helen traveled the world, helping create a nursing profession. Come get acquainted with Helen, one of the most decorated and honored American nurses in history.