Belleville Historical Society

Our mission is to promote awareness and appreciation of the history, customs, artifacts, architecture and people of the city of Belleville, Illinois.

Image: Postcard depicting the southwest corner of the Belleville Public Square circa 1895. On the left is the St. Clair County Courthouse constructed in 1861. It was demolished in 1972. Open image in new tab »

How you can help

Your support will help us discover and share Belleville’s history.

Updates from the Belleville Historical Society

2024 calendars now available »

Our latest newsletter »

Of what use is an old building »
Commentary by BHS historian Robert D. Brunkow and Belleville-News Democrat series by journalist Teri Maddox

Old Hotel Belleville / Lofts on the Square win 2022 Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award for “exceptional preservation efforts”

Midcentury Modern Belleville

Midcentury modern architect Charles E. King practiced in Belleville from 1947 to 1961, contributing significantly to the city’s – and the region’s – MCM landscape.

Tours are available by appointment. Please call Margaret at (618) 920-3261 for further information.

Midcentury Modern Architecture Museum of Belleville »

Watch the KING documentary on YouTube »

Upcoming Events

Dec. 7: Midcentury Modern Holiday Party, 7 – 9 p.m.

Dec. 14: Old Belleville Luminary Walk, 5 – 9 p.m.

Save the date!

March 1, 2025
Trivia Night
Union United Methodist Church, McKinley Hall