Museum  Holiday/Winter Schedule
November through February
Museum tours by appointment
 We will attempt to accommodate travelers, family groups home for the holidays.
Also, during  this period, the  "OPEN" sign will be out on the days
that we are in the building working on the displays.
 
​Please text 833.228.8603, or email to schedule a visit.
​121 S Macoupin St Gillespie, IL 62033
Recently at the Museum
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The 'Suitcase Charlie'  update generated enough interest and comments to be able to develop an interesting display.
Let's try again!
The museum has acquired the Doctor's  Bag and 'pharmacy' used by doctor E. R. Hobson. Please send stories and comments .  Also, where may we find/obtain pill vials?  
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The Coal Museum, Coal Country , and I have lost a wonderful friend. The passing of Chuck Voyles will leave  sadness and a void that will not be filled, but his legacy, his memorabilia and stories are displayed throughout the  museum.  Although I will miss you, every museum visitor will know of you.
Dave    
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'Suitcase Charlie' was a traveler of the rails who made frequent visits to Gillespie. Over 50 years ago, just before his passing, Charlie gave his suitcase to Jerry Dolliger, who has passed it on the the museum. Please send us any memories and 'Suitcase Charlie' stories to help in making another very interesting display.
The practice pipes used by Major Fullerton Fulton have been added to our immigration display.
The years end saw the completion of another phase of building improvements. There was ceiling repairs and painting, an upgrade to the lighting, and  HVAC ducting. Now the restoring of many displays begins. 
Continuing with a busy week , Jim Marcacci poses in front of his new display featuring The Coliseum Ballroom and #5 Mine/Prohibition Era/Benld.  This 'must see' display was installed a mere 24 hours before its debut before a group of Route 66 'Miles of Possibilities' conference attendees. Jim previewed  his upcoming documentary  on the Coliseum and also the soon to be published 'The Wickedest Town in America' by John Ubben. The presentation enthralled the travelers with the stories of our piece of 'The Mother Road'.
click collage to enlarge
No maps were damaged
​by careless pinning
October 24th. the museum hosted VFW Post 4547 and the Ladies Auxiliary to an evening tour of the coal museum and dinner commemorating their over 70 years of service to the community. 
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​Don't like local history or
not a fan of fossil fuels?
Stop by the museum for
a cup of coffee anyway!
The museum has received two generous donations
Several years ago Adam Tallman,  the Farmers Insurance agent in Gillespie, started a charity golf tournament and through his efforts, thousands of dollars have been awarded to local organizations. This year the Coal Museum is a grateful recipient  - Thank You Adam!

On a sad note, the  Kenneth E. Donaldson VFW Post 4547 of Gillespie informed the museum of their final meeting. In keeping with the tradition of service to their community, the Post has made their final donations and has included the museum.  When visiting the Coal Museum, please spend a few minutes at our VFW display and recall some of the memories made over 70 years of dedication and service. ​