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Museum Displays

Our Museum Display Cases

In addition to the genealogy collection and the Illinois Room, the Genealogy & Local History Library houses nine museum display cases highlighting the Alton area’s rich history. The displays are changed periodically, so make sure to check for new ones next time you’re in the library! Current display topics include Hayner Library History, Haskell Playhouse, Alton Railroad History, Elijah P. Lovejoy, Western Military Academy, the artwork of Agnes Millen Richmond, Monticello Seminary, Illinois Glass Company, and Alton postcards.

All displays can be seen at the Genealogy & Local History Library.

Contact Information:

Genealogy & Local History Library
401 State Street
Alton, IL 62002-6137
618-462-0677, option 3
genealogy@haynerlibrary.org

Current Hours:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Closed Sundays

Inside of a library seating area

Inside the Genealogy & Local History Library

Donations of artifacts and ephemera related to local history are appreciated. If you would like to donate materials that we might be able to use in displays, please call
618-462-0677, ext. 2883 to discuss your donation.

Hayner Library History Display Case

We’re always thinking about possible future displays!

Do you have artifacts related to any of these topics that you might be willing to loan or donate?

  • The Jacoby building
  • The Alton Women’s Home
  • The Underground Railroad
  • Ghost stories and local legends
  • Prohibition in Alton
  • Frederick Oakes Sylvester
  • 1856 Illinois State Fair in Alton
  • The Clark Bridge
  • The Dinky Bus

If so, please contact Lacy McDonald at
618-462-0677, ext. 2859 or Lacy.McDonald@haynerlibrary.org

Hayner Display Case