2026.02.06 The Muse

The Bishop Hill Heritage Association (BHHA) was established in 1962 to preserve the historic remnants of the Bishop Hill Colony, a communal settlement founded by Swedish immigrants in the mid-19th century. Located in Bishop Hill, Illinois, the BHHA is committed to maintaining the town's unique Swedish cultural heritage and historical architecture. Among its key sites are the 1854 Steeple Building, originally intended as a hotel but utilized for various purposes over the years, now serving as the main museum and administrative office, and the 1908 Albert Krans Livery Stable, which showcases horse-related artifacts from the early 1900s. Both museums operate on a free-will donation basis, inviting visitors to explore the rich history and cultural legacy of this "Utopia on the Prairie."

The BHHA offers a diverse array of programs and events aimed at engaging the community and preserving its historical narrative. These initiatives include guided tours, family research services, and the organization of major festivals such as the Christmas Market, Lucia Nights, the Doodle Folk Music Festival, and the Chautauqua . Additionally, the association conducts workshops on Swedish folk arts and crafts and regularly features demonstrators in traditional skills like weaving and broom making. The BHHA also plays a pivotal role in maintaining Bishop Hill as a vibrant living community by facilitating cultural exchanges and supporting the restoration of historic properties.

Says Todd DeDecker, BHHA Administrator, "IAC funding is a vital part of BHHA educational programs. Because of their support, we are able to bring in musicians and other artists to our area that we normally could not afford. Due to IAC assistance, the Heritage is able to provide a variety of educational and artistic opportunities through concerts, workshops, and presentations that expand the knowledge and skills of our western Illinois audience."