Date: 06/11/2003 |
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Day Trips - Historic Galena |
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by Gregory C. Johnson |
gregor@beetcafe.com |
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The picturesque city of Galena, located just over 80 miles west on Route 20, offers something for everyone. Galena delights visitors with a several Historic sites and attractions, a wide variety of specialty shops, fine dining, and lodging.
In the 1830's and 40's, the Mississippi River port city of Galena was a major center for mining, smelting, and steam boats. During the 1850's, the city's port facilities became one of the busiest on the Mississippi north of St. Louis. Galena's most famous resident, President Ulysses S. Grant, came to Galena in 1860 to work in his father's store before he left to serve with the Union Army in the Civil War. With the advent of railroad transport, Galena importance as a commercial hub declined and it became a quaint backwater town. The city saw a resurgence in the 1960's as groups moved to restore the cities beautiful old buildings to their original magnificence. Renovation of many buildings is still in process around the town.
Places of interest:
Ulysses S Grant Home State Historic Site 500 Bouthillier St.
Washburn House State Historic Site 908 Third St.
Old Market State Historic Site 123 N. Commerce St.
Dowling House 220 Diagonal St.
The Belvedere 1008 Park Ave.
Old Stockade on Cobblestone Street 208 Perry St.
Main Street Shops Antiques, clothing, food and more
Walking/Trolley tours are available.
For more information: 1-877-GO-GALENA or www.galena.com |
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