Elgin Historical Society offers programs for preservation month

For National Preservation Month in May, the Elgin Area Historical Society will offer three programs.

On Friday, May 1, tour the Elgin National Watch Factory's Observatory built in 1910. Gary Kutina will share information about the Meridian Transit telescope and the observatory's role in Watch Factory development from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 312 Watch St. The free program is sponsored by the Elgin Historical Society and ARCHES.

On Saturday, May 2, celebrate the centennial of the Civil War cannon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Old Main museum, 360 Park St. Costumed re-enators will present a memorial program to commemorate 100 years of the Elgin Academy Civil War Monument. Refreshments will be served in the museum after the program.

On Thursday, May 21, enjoy International Museum Day from noon to 1 p.m. at the museum.

Bring your lunch as volunteers from the Elgin Police Department History Collection and the Elgin Fire Barn Museum talk about the history of these important government services. In addition, behind-the-scenes tours at the Elgin History Museum will be offered from 1 to 3 p.m. Admission is free.

For details, call (847) 742-4248.