Illinois America 250

Illinois America 250 is an inclusive, statewide effort to bring together Illinoisans’ diverse perspectives about our history–and our future–as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.

As Illinois celebrates this landmark anniversary, communities and organizations are encouraged to become official Illinois America 250 partners. This partnership provides access to valuable resources and promotional support, inviting all Illinoisans to participate in the festivities, whether by engaging in local events, exploring historical sites, or contributing to creative projects.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the Illinois America 250 Commission’s community calendar at www.il250.org/events. 

The Illinois Arts Council (IAC), in partnership with the Office of the Governor JB Pritzker and Illinois Humanities, awarded more than $325,000 to twenty-two (22) public art projects throughout Illinois to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. These grants are part of a broader statewide effort led by the Illinois America 250 Commission to celebrate the nation's historic anniversary.

The awarded projects, selected in collaboration with local municipalities and nonprofit organizations, will serve as a public testament to Illinois’ creativity and values, celebrating the state's role in the nation's ongoing story. From Elgin to East St. Louis, Effingham to Anna, Marshall to Macomb, and Rock Island to Rockford, these artworks will stand as enduring markers of this historic moment. Read the IAC's official press release for more information on this collaborative effort, and stay tuned for the unveiling of finished projects throughout 2026. 

Arts Connection of Central IL - Effingham - $15,000

To commission a sculpture to be installed in the courtyard in front of the Effingham Performance Center.

ArtsPartners of Central Illinois, Inc. - Peoria - $15,000

To create a large-scale public mural located on West Main Street in Peoria.

Batavia Artists Association NFP Inc. - Batavia - $15,000

To develop a mural series on the City of Batavia's municipal building.

Chicago Public Art Group - Chicago - $15,000

In partnership with Gerald South Economic Development Collaborative will create a community-driven mural in historic Woodlawn.

City of Decatur dba Decatur Public Library Foundation - Decatur - $15,000

To commission a mural to commemorate 150 years of library history in Decatur.

City of Macomb - Macomb - $12,130

Local artist Professor Duke Oursler will create a life-size cement/bronze sculpture of Abraham Lincoln to be displayed on the McDonough County Courthouse Grounds.

City of Pontiac - Pontiac - $15,000

To create an America 250 Mural that has local roots to the City of Pontiac as a rural, prairie, farming, all-American Illinois city.

DeKalb County History Center - Sycamore - $15,000

Will focus on the Power of Place by having a large, shaded bench painted with agricultural themes connecting the former farmstead to today's ag-related innovations.

East St. Louis Historical Society - East St. Louis - $15,000

To work jointly with the Community Archive to create a mural depicting the impact of the signing of the declaration of independence on the community of East St. Louis, Illinois.

Freeport Arts Center - Freeport - $15,000

For the creation of United We Create, a community-driven mural project within the city's public plaza.

Jacksonville Main Street - Jacksonville - $15,000

To create a public mural that celebrates Jacksonville's unique involvement with the Underground Railroad.

Marshall Public Library - Marshall - $15,000

To partner with the Gaslight Art Colony to install a stained-glass window set in three arched storefront windows on the theme,"From Sea to Shining Sea."

Old Town School of Folk Music - Chicago - $15,000

In partnership with Chicago musician and visual artist John Langford, will create a mural celebrating John Prine's contribution to the Old Town School, Chicago, and the American folk music tradition.

Olney Arts Council of Illinois - Olney - $15,000

Accomplished local artist Robert Treece will create a mural commemorating Olney's celebration of the 250th anniversary to be unveiled on July 4, 2026.

Quad City Arts - Rock Island - $15,000

To create a mural honoring renowned local artists Gertrude Abercrombie and Doris Lee in Aledo, IL.

Quincy Society of Fine Arts - Quincy - $15,000

To create a public art installation celebrating Quincy's history as a home of the Underground Railroad and abolition movement. 

Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Charitable Fdn - Rockford - $15,000

For the installation of a permanent sculpture or large-scale mural within the downtown Rockford Corridor, celebrating community pride and remembering the events surrounding the 250th celebrations.

Shawnee Hills Arts Council - Anna - $15,000

For the creation of a mural with the theme "Ring the Bell for the Arts." 

Side Street Studio Arts NFP - Elgin - $15,000

To create a permanent public artwork celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 through a youth-centered, mentored public art process.

Village of Equality - Equality - $15,000

For the creation of 2 murals on public buildings featuring the historic heritage of our county, which has been settled since colonial times.

Visit Champaign County Foundation - Champaign - $15,000

For a mural in Rantoul, IL, commemorating the Tuskegee Airmen, tying in to the Champaign County African-American Heritage Trail and IL America 250.

Waukegan Park District - Waukegan - $15,000

To create a visual arts piece celebrating local history dating back to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.