The Western Illinois Museum and the McDonough County Genealogical Society invite the public to an Open House Ice Cream Social on Saturday, June 20, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Western Illinois Museum, 201 South Lafayette Street in downtown Macomb. The afternoon will celebrate the organizations’ ongoing collaboration and shared commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of McDonough County and the surrounding region. Guests can enjoy ice cream, hear live music from guitarist Dan Eilers, explore local history resources, tour the building, meet volunteers and staff, and learn more about the many ways the two organizations collaborate to make local history accessible and engaging for the community. A suggested $5 donation will be accepted at the door. 

The two organizations are housed in a 100-year-old building that has been shaped by change and holds a history of its own. Originally home to a carriage business and later an automobile showroom designed to display the innovative Ford Model T, it is now a place for showcasing the forward-thinking work of the McDonough County Genealogical Society and WIM.

Working side by side, the Genealogical Society and WIM bring together family history research, regional archives, exhibitions, educational programs, and public conversations that connect personal stories to larger historical narratives. While each organization has a distinct mission, both share a belief that preserving and sharing local history strengthens community understanding and creates meaningful connections across generations.

Visitors to the open house will have the opportunity to explore the organization’s extensive historical resources, learn about research services, volunteer opportunities, exhibits, educational programming, and the many ways this building serves as a welcoming downtown gathering place.