HR0980 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0980 LRB104 20744 LAW 34248 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to recognize the City of Galena on the occasion of its bicentennial in tandem with America 250 in 2026; and

WHEREAS, Galena is a popular, small-town tourist destination in the unglaciated area of Northwest Illinois near the banks of the Mississippi River known for its picturesque rolling hills and natural amenities, historic Main Street filled with beautiful 19th century architecture, rich storied past, and more; and

WHEREAS, Galena was established in 1826, adopting the name Galena to honor the lead ore that brought prosperity and growth to this historic Illinois town; and

WHEREAS, For a time, Galena was also home to former President Ulysses S. Grant, whose family moved to the city in 1860, where they operated a leather goods store; and

WHEREAS, President Grant left Galena to serve in the Civil War in 1861, eventually becoming a general and a war hero; and

WHEREAS, Upon his return to Galena after the war, then-General Grant was presented by Galena citizens with a handsome furnished house on Bouthillier Street, which today is managed by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places; and

WHEREAS, Galena is also along the path of U.S. Route 20, the longest highway in the United States, stretching over 3,300 miles from Boston, Massachusetts to Newport, Oregon, which is celebrating its centennial in 2026; the highway passes through the heart of the city, known as Spring Street; and

WHEREAS, In 2026, Galena plans to honor 200 years of its history concurrently as communities and travelers from coast to coast intend to celebrate key anniversaries in American heritage, exploration, and connectivity to mark the United States' semiquincentennial; and

WHEREAS, Galena aims to inspire fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation; and

WHEREAS, Galena believes America 250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, and honor the enduring strength and celebrate the resiliency of the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, Galena's citizens and visitors alike will commemorate such an important year in local and American history with various events spread throughout the year in honor of the city's and the country's unique and shared stories; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize the City of Galena on celebrating its bicentennial in tandem with America 250 in 2026; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to City of Galena as an expression of our esteem and respect.