Sharks Roadhouse

The Galena Historical Museum, housed in an 1858 mansion, was founded in the 1930s with the purpose of collecting and exhibiting artifacts that explore the events and people that shaped the history of the region. The largest of the museum's exhibits is dedicated to the nine Galena citizens that became Union Generals during the Civil War, including President Ulysses S. Grant; other collections include an assortment of 19th and 20th century clothes and quilts, as well as many items possessed by famous historic figures. It is located right in the center of town, near Grant's Park.

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During the Blackhawk War, the Apple River Fort's untrained settlers staved off nearly 200 Sauk and Fox warriors. Today, the historic building is home to an enlightening museum that features exhibits on subjects such as the histories of the Sauk and Fox tribes, and the causes that lead to the 16-week Blackhawk War. The fort is located near the Wisconsin border, in the tiny town center of Elizabeth.

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Used as a city marketplace from 1846 until 1910, the Old Market House acted as a central place of commerce and gathering in the town's formative years. Even after ceasing to act as a place of public commerce, the Greek Revival building served the community as a fire house and held the city council chambers. The building today contains exhibits on regional history and hosts various special seasonal community events. Located in the center of historical Galena, the Ulysses S. Grant Home and Elihu B. Washburne House are both within a mile of the building.

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The second residence occupied by 18th President of the United States in Galena, the Ulysses S. Grant Home was a gift to the Civil War General after he returned from accepting General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox, signaling the end of the war. Although Grant only occupied the Italianate house for a few years before heading to Washington, D.C. to assume the presidency, many pieces of furniture owned by the Grant family remain in the building, invoking the time that he spent living in the quaint town. The home is located near the eastern edge of town, near the historic Elihu B. Washburne House.

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