Experience The Rich
History of Crystal Lake

Perhaps you were born and raised in Crystal Lake. Or perhaps you've recently moved here. Maybe your ancestors helped settle the area. Regardless, we welcome you to The Crystal Lake Historical Society website, and hope you will learn more about our Society and our community's rich history.

Highlights

Events

Jan

Mon

2024

A Century of Education: Crystal Lake Community High School @ Colonel Palmer House

A Century of Education: Crystal Lake Community High School @ Colonel Palmer House

What we know today as Crystal Lake Central High School is 100 years old! This exhibit covers the history of the building, student life, sports, arts, and much more. The Senior Class of 1924 is featured with in depth biographies of all the graduates. Stop by and learn about how – and why – it all began!

The Colonel Palmer House is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 11-5 and Saturdays from 10-4. Please note that the facility is sometimes closed on Saturdays for special events, so double check before you go.

Our Miss Knox Exhibit @ Colonel Palmer House

Our Miss Knox Exhibit @ Colonel Palmer House

Florence Knox was an elementary school teacher in Crystal Lake for more than fifty years. Beginning her career in rural one-room schoolhouses, then transitioning to School District 47, Miss Knox taught fourth grade to hundreds of children during her career. The new exhibit explores her career and features class photos and memories from former students. Stop by to get acquainted (or reacquainted) with this Crystal Lake gem!

The Colonel Palmer House is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 11-5 and Saturdays from 10-4. Note: the facility is closed some Saturdays for special functions so check before you go!