Despite state sites closing, Bishop Hill remains open

    All Bishop Hill museums, shops, dining and lodging accommodations continue to be open as usual and will continue to be open throughout this year.

    Bishop Hill is a tourist attraction that will delight family members young and old alike. 

    Many exciting festivals and events take place throughout the year in Bishop Hill.

    Unique shops, fine food, interesting tours, exciting museums, and more await you!

    Demonstrations by local artisans and crafters, walking tours, a scenic park, excellent shops, an outstanding bakery, mouth-watering dining, quaint and cozy accommodations, and historical buildings await you in the scenic village of Bishop Hill.

    All shops are open during the months April  to December, with many shops now also open during the winter months of January to March. Vasa Archives, Henry County Museum, and the Heritage Steeple building museum are maintaining their normal hours with tours available throughout the year.

    The Bishop Hill State Historic Site is keeping its regular hours of Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., until its closing Oct. 1, 2008.

Bishop Hill State Historic Museum, the Bjorklund Hotel, and the Colony Church are the only buildings affected by the Governor cutting the budget of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.

    All Bishop Hill businesses and three other museums located in Bishop Hill will continue to remain open the rest of this year, with most Bishop Hill businesses open Wednesday to Sunday during the winter months as well.

    Upcoming events include the following:

    • Sept. 13: Old Settler's Day: Celebration of the 162nd anniversary of the Bishop Hill Colony and the 112th year of the Old Settlers’ Association. 11:30 a.m. Traditional Chicken Dinner; 12:30 p.m. High Society Band Concert; 1:30 p.m.  Program featuring Bishop Hill Colony Descendants Bishop Hill Old Settlers’ Association.

    • Sept. 14: Colony School Reunion of students and teachers from the Bishop Hill Colony School and area country schools. Bishop Hill Old Settlers’ Association, 2–4 p.m.

Sherry Linscott, Bishop Hill