Learn history behind Elgin observatory
The Elgin Area Historical Society offers "Elgin Observatory & Beyond" at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 24, at the Old Main Museum, 360 Park St.
The Elgin National Watch Company Observatory is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2010. Spend an evening with the stars and learn about those who were involved with various aspects of the observatory and about the timekeeping, weather station, radio broadcasting and a connection to Admiral Byrd, the Antarctic explorer.
The museum is housed in an 1856 landmark building known as Old Main that was once part of the Elgin Academy. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Through permanent and changing exhibits, the museum brings to life Elgin's rich heritage. Permanent exhibits include Elgin National Watch Company, the E. Maude and Carl Parlasca Native American Collection, and Elgin Road Race memorabilia.
For details, contact elginhistory@foxvalley.net, (847) 742-4248 or visit elginhistory.org.