Embark on a Research Adventure with Us!

Welcome, history enthusiasts! Today, I am thrilled to invite you on a captivating journey through time and space with the McHenry County Historical Society's Research Area. As a dedicated research librarian, I'm delighted to share the treasure trove of digital online resources waiting to be explored, as well as our exciting foray into the realm of social media for historical sleuthing. First and foremost, let's dive into the wealth of knowledge awaiting you in our digital archives. With just a click, you can access a plethora of historical gems through our Research Library.

Whether you're delving into the rich tapestry of McHenry County's past or unraveling the intricacies of local genealogy, our digital resources provide a gateway to a bygone era. From digitized newspapers to oral histories, there's something to pique the curiosity of every history aficionado. But our exploration doesn't stop there. 

We've embarked on a groundbreaking journey into social media by launching our #ResearchAdventure initiative on Facebook and Instagram. Gone are the days of solely using social media for event updates and closures; we're harnessing the power of these platforms to engage our community in uncovering the missing pieces of McHenry County's history. 

For instance, we recently embarked on a quest to uncover the story behind a mysterious figure identified as "Thomas Madden" in a photograph nestled within a pile of obituaries. Through the collective efforts of our online community, we shed light on this enigmatic individual and the role he played in our county's past. 

Additionally, we're aiding local historians like Rommy Lopat, author of the Montelona Farm book available in our Museum Store, by using our Collective Memory and unraveling the secrets of Richmond Cemetery's Civil War monument. Unknown to even our Civil War enthusiasts. By tapping into our community's collective wisdom, we aim to breathe new life into these historical landmarks and preserve their significance for future generations. 

But our mission doesn't end with historical mysteries. We also leverage social media to build our collection through community archiving initiatives. From documenting the awe-inspiring Solar Eclipse of 2024 to chronicling the phenomenon of Cicada Mania, we're inviting our community to share their photos and stories, ensuring that these pivotal moments are preserved for posterity. 

In conclusion, history is not just a relic of the past—it's a living, breathing entity that evolves with each passing moment. You're invited to embark on a thrilling Research Adventure with the McHenry County Historical Society as your guide. So join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of McHenry County's past, one hashtag at a time. Together, let's make history come alive.