This site will look much better in a browser that supports web standards, but it is accessible to any browser or Internet device.

Resources

Raymond Library

The Society’s research collections are housed in the John L. Raymond Research Library, located on the second floor of Lilac Cottage. Named for the man who first appreciated the importance of collecting the photographic and archival history of Waukegan, the extensive collection of materials includes photographs, printed histories, directories, maps, newspapers, yearbooks, and other research materials.

Haines Museum

The Haines Museum is located in an 1843 farmhouse built for Lake County pioneer James Montgomery and purchased in 1857 by John C. Haines who became Mayor of the city of Chicago the following year. The building was restored to the late 1870s (when Mayor Haines took up permanent residence). Period furnishings, including many pieces from important Waukegan families, have transformed the house back to the high-Victorian opulence of the late 19th century. Additional rooms are used as exhibit spaces, showcasing items from the Society’s ever growing collection of Waukegan and Lake County memorabilia.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Ordinance for the City of Waukegan was adopted by the City Council on December 17, 2001. The ordinance provides a mechanism for the identification, designation and protection of buildings and other sites determined to be of historical or architectural significant to the City of Waukegan.

The Historic Preservation Commission is comprised of seven Waukegan residents who are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. Organized under the Department of Planning and Zoning, the Commission meets on the second Wednesday of each month at City Hall, and all meetings are open to the public. To learn more, download the Historic Preservation Ordinance brochure.

Landmark Nomination Forms for individual properties are also available (Microsoft Word format).

Links

Waukegan Park District, home of the Haines Musuem

Historic Millburn Community Association
Mount Prospect Historical Society and On-Line Resource
Des Plaines Historical Society
Lake County Discovery Museum
Illinois Association of Museums
Lake County Geneological Society
Zion Geneological Society
Waukegan Main Street
The Carnegie Preservation Project
Genesee Theatre
City of Waukegan