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
Ghost Towns of Stephenson County
After nearly five years of research and writing, Ghost Towns of Stephenson County: The History of Forgotten Rural Communities During Their First 100 Years is now available through the Stephenson County Historical Society.
This 300-page book chronicles the history of more than 75 communities that once existed throughout Stephenson County. Filled with over 550 historic photographs, maps, and illustrations, the book brings to life the people, businesses, schools, churches, and stories that helped shape our county's earliest years.
The book debuted at the Stephenson County Historical Society Annual Dinner in April 2026 and has been met with tremendous community interest.
Copies are for sale now at the museum gift shop:
• Paperback Edition – $40
• Hardcover Edition – $60
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Books can also be shipped via usps media mail for $8 per book.
Thank you to everyone who has supported this project. We are excited to share this important piece of Stephenson County history with the community and future generations.
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