| Page Views: 2,592 Last Visit to Galena: May, 2007 | Second Most Visited City in the State of Illinois by deecat - last update: Jun 12, 2007 |
The term Galena is Latin for "lead sulfide", which is appropriate for the name of this city since all the wealth that was here came from the mining of lead. The Native Americans called Galena and the area around it "Manitoomie" meaning "Sacred Ground" or "God's Country". I can certainly see why.
Because of the mineral treasure found in the late 1600s, fortunes were amassed and "architectural masterpieces sprang up in Galena". About this time, it was one of the busiest Mississippi River ports between St. Louis and St. Paul! It was not long-lived. The town's fortunes declined, and progress bypassed Galena.
Then, in the 1960's, Galena was rediscovered, and most of its 19th-century buildings were restored. That is fortunate for all of us who love beautiful architecture. Preservation is still strong in Galena; hopefully, the beauty will be maintained.
Galena is the county seat for Jo Daviess Count and second only to Chicago as the most visited city in the state of Illinois.
The antique shops that used to abound are no longer here. The shops over the last 20 years have changed with the times, and it is not a good thing, in my eyes. I hope this conscientious community does not let commercialism get out of hand. It's the rich heritage stretching back many centuries that is really important rather than Chinese-made items sold in many of the 100 plus shops. |
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| Pros: | "Historic, Great Architecture, Wonderful Restaurants" | | Cons: | "Crowded on weekends, especially in summer" | | In A Nutshell: | "A Lovely Old Town With Historic Buildings" |
deecat's Galena Travel Tips
 Comments for deecat about Galena | | | | |
sourbugger Wed Nov 11, 2009 13:49 UTC
lovely page - how close is grant to hero worhip, i wonder ? | misterrabbit Thu Oct 15, 2009 19:47 UTC
What a sensational town to visit if you love history. However, it seems to offer much more with lovely architecture, great shopping, and excellent food. | jillzi Tue Jun 9, 2009 20:50 UTC
Didn't you and Jill stay in Galena on your last trip together. How sad. But how great that you have your lovely memories of this great old town. | Yaqui Wed Apr 29, 2009 18:03 UTC
The Belvedere House & Gardens, wine tasting and Old Market House look marvelous! Love that historical marker! I wish people would take more time to seek them out or just read them when they see them. Thanks for the lovely tour! |
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