Illinois Bicentennial Celebration

Before Illinois became a state, it was known as the Illinois Territory; the word "Illinois" comes from the French word meaning Illini or Land of Illini, which in turn references an Algonquin word meaning "men" or "warriors." In early 1818, the General Assembly of the Illinois Territory sent a petition to the United States Congress asking to be admitted into the Union, which occurred on December 3, 1818.

On Monday, April 30, join us as the Union League Club of Chicago presents a special afternoon program celebrating our state's 200th birthday, reflecting upon its rich history, the path that led to statehood, and what the future holds.

In addition to a presentation by Illinois State Historian, Dr. Samuel Wheeler, and remarks by Alan Lowe, Director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, our program features former Governor Jim Edgar (who served as Illinois' 38th Governor as well as Illinois Secretary of State) and ULCC member Alderman Edward Burke (Dean of the Chicago City Council, Chairman of the City Council Committee on Finance, and Chicago historian). Our conversation with Gov. Edgar and Ald. Burke will be moderated by legendary broadcast journalist Bill Kurtis.

Our celebration opens with a reception at 4:30 p.m. where guests will enjoy food and refreshments, including samples of Illinois' Official Bicentennial Beer (1818 Prairie State Farmhouse Ale)! The program begins promptly at 5:00 p.m. and will adjourn by 6:30 p.m.

Please register today for this special event celebrating Illinois' Bicentennial, which the Club is proud to present in partnership with the Illinois Bicentennial Commission (https://illinois200.com); the ULCC also gratefully acknowledges Wintrust for its support of this special program.

Although this event is offered on a complimentary basis, advance registration is required and space is limited. Also, please note that the Union League Club of Chicago maintains a "business casual" dress code (i.e., no jeans/denim or athletic wear, please).

For more information, please call the Public Affairs office at 312.435.5946.