Archives Updates
We're Back!
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The Archives are officially back to our pre-pandemic hours! We are keeping our appointment system if you would like to plan ahead. Book your appointment by calling 217-367-4025 or emailing archives@urbanafree.org. Walk-ins are welcome. Can't make it in? We can help you from afar!
10:00 am - 6:00 pm | Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
10:00 am - 9:00 pm | Wednesday
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm | Sunday
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Richard Hill was the first adoptee to identify his birth family through a genetic genealogy DNA test. His pioneering success opened the floodgates for adoptees to get around sealed adoption records and decades-old family secrets. Since 2008, Richard has been educating adoptees, genealogists, and others about the power of genetic genealogy to discover lost relatives and reunite families. Join Richard to learn about his story, today’s DNA testing environment, and surprise discoveries!
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When Americans reached the western frontier in the early 19th century and founded towns, they brought family, friends, culture, and new customs. Schools were built, churches erected, streets laid, and government buildings constructed to create an infrastructure akin to their former homes in the eastern U.S. As towns went up, populations grew and laws were implemented to maintain perceived societal norms. Breaking those laws meant you had to answer to local law enforcement.
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Ancestry Library Edition has once again extended access from home through September 30th for all library cardholders! Access Ancestry by following this link and logging in with your library card number.
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In 1896, Octave Chanute, namesake of Chanute Air Force Base, designed his famous biplane hang glider. This design became the standard for future gliders. To show appreciation for his influence on aeronautics, two 21-cent international airmail stamps were released depicting Octave Chanute and his biplane hang glider. These stamps were first sold on March 29, 1979 in Chanute, Kansas. Chanute served as the first day city (the city where a new stamp is first sold). The release of the stamps was accompanied by a ceremony in the city of Chanute.
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Did you know?
We want to hear your stories.
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We are collecting photographs, stories, art, reflections, and more from community members to document COVID-19 and Racial Justice in Champaign County. Click on the images below to learn more and share your experiences.
Go ahead, we're listening.
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Think You Know Champaign-Urbana?
Try our trivia quiz
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Q. When did the Sholem Aquatic Center open?
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Events at the Archives & Beyond |
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We Want To Hear From You! |
Put our Archivists to the test. Ask us your questions about local history and genealogy.
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Want to learn about more events at The Urbana Free Library?
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Champaign County Historical Archives | 217-367-4025 | E-mail | Website
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