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Event
Founder of the Year Ceremony: Israel Blackburn
May
04,
2024
11:30 am — 12:30 pm
Main Street Cemetery
5158 Main Street, Downers Grove
Free to the public.
DG Historical Society is pleased to announce Israel Larry Blackburn as the Founder of the Year for 2024.
Israel Larry Blackburn was born into slavery on a plantation in Kentucky in 1818. He lived there until 1865, when he joined the Union Army and was assigned to the 124th U.S. Colored Infantry. He earned the rank of sergeant before his discharge six months later.
Blackburn then moved his family north to Downers Grove.
To learn more, click here >
Members' Cost:
0 [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:
The Downers Grove Historical Society
info@downersgrovehistory.org
(630) 481-6164
Become a DG Historical Society member now and receive early notice of select Society events and exclusive discounts at local merchants!
Location:
Other Upcoming Society Events:
Apr
25
FoundersFest 2026!
Apr
25
2026 Pine Hollow Open Golf Tournament
Apr
29
Night at the Tivoli & Documentary Premiere
May
02
2026 Founder of the Year: Nathan Alonzo Belden
May
02
Country in the Park 2026
Community Events:
Want more upcoming event info?
Free to the public.
DG Historical Society is pleased to announce Israel Larry Blackburn as the Founder of the Year for 2024.
Israel Larry Blackburn was born into slavery on a plantation in Kentucky in 1818. He lived there until 1865, when he joined the Union Army and was assigned to the 124th U.S. Colored Infantry. He earned the rank of sergeant before his discharge six months later.
Blackburn then moved his family north to Downers Grove.
To learn more, click here >