History & Heritage

Great Places to Go

County Courthouse

Our courthouse at 301 North Main Street in Mount Carroll dates from 1843 and is featured on the National Register of Historic places. Be sure and see the unmatched Civil War monument on the courthouse grounds. Designed by Lorado Taft, the monument was dedicated in 1891 to commemorate the 1,284 Carroll County men who lost their lives in the Civil War.

Downtown Mount Carroll, National Register Historic District

On the brick streets of this special historic district, you’ll find classic architecture and more than 30 different historic sites.

Monument Park

This small area off Main Street in Savanna was established to commemorate early settlement in the area, and hosts the monument honoring the Aaron Pierce family, the first settlers of Savanna.

Oakville Complex

Found on Timberlake Road in Mount Carroll, this historical complex includes an 1888 schoolhouse, two log cabins, a blacksmith shop, and a granary.

Owen P. Miles Museum

This lovely Italianate home in Mount Carroll was built in 1873. Today it depicts life in the late 1800’s.

Savanna Museum and Cultural Center

A local museum featuring authentic Civil War uniforms, memorabilia related to famous big-band musician (and native son) Wayne King memorabilia, and an active railroad model of early Savanna.

Savanna Train Car Museum

Perfect for railfans! The Hiawatha train car is filled with numerous railroad mementos and collectible due to the generosity of numerous former and present Savanna residents. Hiawatha Passenger Car #541 was in general use from about 1950 to 1971 when all passenger service was discontinued on the Milwaukee Road.

Thomson Depot Museum

Built in the late 1800’s, this authentic train depot is filled with exhibits, including period photographs, newspapers, land grants, railroad memorabilia, furniture, & clothing.