Attractions

Dickson Mounds Museum

? 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Rd, Lewistown, IL
☎️ 309-547-3721
? Visit Website

Dickson Mounds Museum is one of the premier on-site archaeological museums in the United States, offering a deep dive into Native American history spanning over 12,000 years. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, reconstructed dwellings, and burial sites that provide insight into the lives of the Mississippian culture. The museum also hosts educational programs and interactive exhibits for all ages.

Hours: Open year-round from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on select holidays)
Admission: Free

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge & Emiquon Preserve

? Nature Conservancy Rd, Lewistown, IL
? Visit Website

Located along the Illinois River, Emiquon is a restored wetland that serves as a haven for wildlife, birdwatchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of the largest floodplain restoration projects in the Midwest, offering opportunities for fishing, hiking, and kayaking. The refuge is home to an array of migratory birds, making it a prime location for photography and nature observation.

Activities:
✔️ Birdwatching
✔️ Canoeing & kayaking
✔️ Fishing (permit required)
✔️ Nature trails

Rasmussen Blacksmith Shop Museum

? 300 S Main St, Lewistown, IL 61542
☎️ 309-696-2284
? Visit Website

The Rasmussen Blacksmith Shop Museum, located on Main Street in Lewistown, is a rare historical gem, being one of the few blacksmith shops in the United States preserved in its original location. Established in the mid-1830s, the shop was purchased by Nels Rasmussen in 1880 and remained operational under the Rasmussen family until 1969. After its closure, the Lewistown Society for Historic Preservation acquired the building, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Highlights:

• Authentic Blacksmithing Demonstrations: Experience live demonstrations showcasing traditional blacksmithing techniques, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the past.
• Historical Exhibits: Explore a collection of original tools, equipment, and artifacts that tell the story of the blacksmith trade and its significance in Lewistown’s history.

Visiting Information:

• Hours: The museum is open by appointment. To schedule a visit, please call 309-696-2284.
• Admission: Free (Donations are appreciated to support ongoing preservation efforts).

The Rasmussen Blacksmith Shop Museum is a testament to Lewistown’s rich industrial heritage, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the art of blacksmithing as it was practiced over a century ago.

Lewistown Visitors Center & Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive

? Lewistown, IL
? Visit Website

The Lewistown Visitors Center provides historical insights into the town and its role in Fulton County’s history. It’s also a great starting point for exploring the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive, a seasonal event featuring craft fairs, food vendors, and historical tours in October. The drive showcases the beauty of the Spoon River countryside, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Key Highlights:
✔️ Historical exhibits on early settlers and Native American culture
✔️ Maps and brochures for exploring Fulton County
✔️ Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive events

Lewistown Carnegie Public Library

? 321 W Lincoln Ave, Lewistown, IL
☎️ 309-547-2690
? Visit Website

Built in 1905, the Lewistown Carnegie Library is a historic site that remains an active center for community learning. It houses a vast collection of books, archives, and local history materials, including works from Edgar Lee Masters, the famous poet from Lewistown known for Spoon River Anthology.

Events & Services:
✔️ Local history research resources
✔️ Children’s storytime and literacy programs
✔️ Public internet access

Oak Hill Cemetery & Civil War Memorial

? Oak Hill Rd, Lewistown, IL

Oak Hill Cemetery is not only the final resting place for many of Lewistown’s early settlers but also features a Civil War Memorial, recognizing soldiers who fought for the Union. Among the notable graves is a dedication to soldiers who fought in the Black Hawk War, a pivotal moment in Illinois history.

Historic Significance:
✔️ Civil War and Black Hawk War memorial sites
✔️ Graves of prominent Lewistown figures

Edgar Lee Masters Home & Park

? Lewistown, IL

Edgar Lee Masters, the renowned poet of Spoon River Anthology, spent much of his early life in Lewistown. While his former residence is a private home, a local park pays tribute to his literary legacy. Visitors can explore sites that inspired his famous collection of poems, which brought Lewistown’s history and people to life in literature.

Literary Connection:
✔️ Learn about the real stories behind Spoon River Anthology
✔️ Visit landmarks referenced in his poetry