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Event
The Story of Israel Blackburn at the DuPage County Genealogical Society
November
18,
2026
7:00 pm — 8:30 pm
Wheaton Public Library
225 N. Cross St., Wheaton
We have been invited to tell the life story of Israel Blackburn for the monthly meeting of the DuPage County Genealogical Society. The presentation will be held at the Wheaton Public Library.
Israel was born into slavery in 1818 in Kentucky. In 1865, during the Civil War, he performed garrison duty with the 124th U.S. Colored Infantry in Kentucky. Blackburn moved his family north to DuPage County, Illinois, and settled in Downers Grove shortly after the war. He became a respected member of the community and, within a few years, in 1873, was one of the 38 founding signers of the Incorporation Papers for the new Village of Downers Grove.
In this presentation, genealogist, local historian, and Downers Grove Historical Society President Marty Acks, will tell Israel’s story by following the large trove of archival material that documents many aspects of his unique life.
Registration details will follow. There is no charge for this presentation.
Members' Cost:
Free
Non-Members:
Free
Important note:
You can pay for tickets using your personal credit card. When checking out in Yapsody, simply select the “Credit Card” option [immediately below the “PayPal” option].
This event is presented by:
DuPage County Genealogical Society
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Location:
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2026 Pine Hollow Open Golf Tournament
Apr
29
Night at the Tivoli & Documentary Premiere
May
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2026 Founder of the Year: Nathan Alonzo Belden
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Community Events:
Want more upcoming event info?
We have been invited to tell the life story of Israel Blackburn for the monthly meeting of the DuPage County Genealogical Society. The presentation will be held at the Wheaton Public Library.
Israel was born into slavery in 1818 in Kentucky. In 1865, during the Civil War, he performed garrison duty with the 124th U.S. Colored Infantry in Kentucky. Blackburn moved his family north to DuPage County, Illinois, and settled in Downers Grove shortly after the war. He became a respected member of the community and, within a few years, in 1873, was one of the 38 founding signers of the Incorporation Papers for the new Village of Downers Grove.
In this presentation, genealogist, local historian, and Downers Grove Historical Society President Marty Acks, will tell Israel’s story by following the large trove of archival material that documents many aspects of his unique life.
Registration details will follow. There is no charge for this presentation.