Special Notice
As of June 26, 2026, the City of Freeport will be working on Carroll Avenue and there may be days when the driveway to the museum will be blocked. Please check the Stephenson County Historical Society facebook page for closures that will effect when the museum will be open. This is expected to last through most of the summer.
We apologize for any inconvenience.
2026 Summer Hours
Thursday 11 AM-3 PM
Friday 11 AM-3 PM
Saturday Noon- 4 PM
Sunday Noon- 4 PM
Group tours available by appointment
72nd Annual Ice Cream Social
Join the Stephenson County Historical Society on Saturday, August 29, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at the Lena Area Historical Museum for our annual Ice Cream Social. This year’s event will help support the Lena Area Historical Society as they continue recovering from the April tornado. Admission, ice cream, and museum tours are free. Donations are welcome, and all profits from Ghost Towns of Stephenson County book sales during the event will benefit the
Lena Area Historical Society.
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Volunteer Orientation
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Have you ever thought about volunteering at the Stephenson County Historical Society?
Whether you’re interested in greeting visitors, leading tours, helping with events, gardening, or working behind the scenes, we’d love to meet you! Join us for a Volunteer Orientation to learn about the many ways you can get involved and help preserve Stephenson County’s history.
A morning and afternoon session are available to fit your schedule.
Please RSVP by completing the form below.
[Volunteer Orientation RSVP Form]
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We look forward to welcoming new volunteers to our museum family!
Ghost Towns of Stephenson County
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Explore the forgotten communities that helped shape Stephenson County through more than 300 pages of historic photographs, maps, and fascinating stories.
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Order Online
-Paperback: $35
Taxes, shipping, and fees will be added at checkout.
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Available in the Museum Gift Shop
-Paperback: $40
-Hardcover: $60
Gift shop prices include taxes and credit card processing fees.
Thank you for supporting the Stephenson County Historical Society and helping us preserve our local history.
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