The Saline Creek Pioneer Village and Museum are run by the Saline County Historical Society.
These grounds were originally part of the Saline County Pauper Farm. The original 175 acres of farmland was purchased by the county in 1863 during the Civil War. Today 3.5 acres remain as part of the museum.
The large brick building in the center of the grounds was once the "pauper house" where residents of the grounds lived together and worked the farm. The Pauper House was built in 1877 and now serves as a museum.
On grounds you will find a cell from the original Saline County Jail, the Chenault School House, a General Store, the Davenport Cabin, a Blockhouse, a Mystery Cabin, a Blacksmith Shop, the Aydolette Barn, the Aydolette Cabin, and the Cain Church.
You are welcome to visit the grounds and do a self-guided tour at your own pace, reading the signs outside each building.
In the News
Illinois Humanities Award
July 30, 2026, in commemoration of the country's 250th anniversary, the Illinois Humanities announced gifts totaling $250,000 to 50 history, heritage, archival and cultural organizations that create, preserve and amplify Illinois history and community stories. Saline County Historical Society was one of the recipients of this award. Click on the button below to see the full story.
HistoriCorps
HistoriCorps, a nonprofit organization that aims to engage volunteers in historic preservation training, is scheduled for a preservation project on the Saline County Poor House September 7 - 25, 2026. The Poor House was established in 1839 and served the county's poor until its closure in the 1950s. To learn more about HistoriCorps click on the button below.
Monthly Meetings
Monthly Meeting
Saline Creek Pioneer Village & Museum 1600 S. Feazel Street Harrisburg, IL 62946
This is a time to share information, plan workdays, project and event planning. If you are curious about what we do or are interested in volunteering join us!
