Settled in the northwestern corner of Illinois, only a half an hour from Platteville, Wisconsin is Galena, Illinois. Even in 2018, the town resembles a historic setting from the 19th century. Interestingly enough, 85 percent of Galena’s buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Galena was established in 1826 during a time of economic boom. Galena was actually named after the mineral, Galena, which was found in this area and brought in a large number of people in the 1850’s, reaching a peak population of 14,000 people. The town was so large that it was registered as a city in 1841. Because of Galena’s prime spot on the Mississippi River, it was great for industry and politics. Most notably, Abe Lincoln is noted for talking on the steps of DeSoto House Hotel.

Along with many of notable figures visiting Galena, was the soon to be President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. Grant moved to Galena in 1861 to help out with his father’s leather store. Being a graduate of West Point, he was looking for a career in the military.

Through connections made in Galena, he was appointed to be a general in the U.S. Military during the Civil War. Upon arrival back in Galena after a triumphant victory for the Union, under the leadership of Grant, he was given a home, fully furnished as thanks. Three years later he ran for U.S. President and won, making him the 18th President of the United States of America.

Fast-forward to this day and age, the city’s population has declined to around 3,600 people, but has still somehow managed to preserve the history, landscape and spirit that was present in the 1800’s. Galena is known as the “town that time forgot” according to the city’s website.

One of the more notable features of the city is its two-mile downtown Main Street. This street is popular for tourists in the summertime and includes numerous old-fashioned candy shops, bookstores, antique shops, a collectible toy and prank store, unique restaurants, a haunted ghost tour and more than you could ever fit into a day.

Galena is a walking museum full of many attractions. One main place beside downtown that people visit is the home of the Grant family. The home includes projection hologram-like figures of Grant and his wife, there is also a park that celebrates all veterans.

The Old Market House was built in 1846 and still stands today. In the olden times, it was used for as a place for vendors and shoppers to gather and discuss business. It is now used as a gathering place for social events and exhibits.

As discussed earlier, the DeSoto House Hotel is very historic, it is actually Illinois’ oldest operating hotel. Stephen A. Douglas and Abe Lincoln are both noted for speaking on the balcony there. There have been many issues with the hotel dealing with explosions and expansion, but it stands tall today on Main Street.

The Old Blacksmith Shop is from 1897 and has working tools inside. Today, blacksmiths there still make gifts that are sold on the street of Galena. You can also go watch them create something as well.

With numerous old places to visit, you tend to forget what century you're truly in when you step into Galena. For any history buff, people who like to shop or someone who admires simpler times, I would highly recommend this city.