On Community: A Crucial Issue, a Small Town, and a Writer's Experience
The Western Illinois Museum invites the community to join historian John Hallwas for a thought-provoking evening exploring themes from his book, 'On Community: A Crucial Issue, A Small Town, and a Writer's Experience,' on Thursday, Aug. 27. As part of the Museum's 'Thursdays On Our Front Porch,' guests are invited to enjoy a pizza supper beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program and discussion at 6:30 p.m. A suggested donation of $5 will be accepted at the door.
Join us for an engaging community conversation centered on John Hallwas's book, 'On Community,' a timely collection of essays exploring the importance of place, shared history, and civic life. Hallwas argues that 'we live in an unprecedented era, when community is under siege from a variety of forces, and the negative ramifications of that are continually mounting.' Drawing on local history, personal reflection, and literary insight, he invites us to rediscover the value of community and the stories that connect us.
Through biographical sketches of people from Macomb's past and reflections on influential writers and memorable small-town Illinois personalities, Hallwas demonstrates how local heritage can strengthen our communities today. This program encourages participants to share their own experiences, exchange ideas, and reflect together on the enduring role of community, why local history matters, and what each of us can do to foster a stronger sense of belonging.
Thanks to Hallwas’s generosity, guests will have the opportunity to purchase a copy of 'On Community' for the special price of $10 before and during the program.
'Thursdays On Our Front Porch' is an educational program series inspired by Mary Stipanowich and made possible through the generous support of her family in her memory. The series fosters a sense of belonging through informal conversations that bring shared histories, personal experiences, and community stories to life.
For more information, call 309-837-2750, text 309-8372613, or email [email protected].
The Museum is located at 201 S. Lafayette Street, one block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square. The building is fully accessible, and free accessible parking is available. More details and updates can be found on the Museum’s social media channels.
About John Hallwas
John Hallwas has written or edited 30 books, created several plays, and authored more than 600 journal, magazine, and newspaper articles related to Illinois, and he is one of the most well-published authors about our state's heritage in the 21st century. He has also spoken in well over 100 communities in Illinois, received more than two dozen awards for his teaching, writing, and social activism, been designated as the only Distinguished Professor Emeritus in WIU's history, and has been inducted into the Illinois Senior Citizen Hall of Fame for his decades of commitment to public causes. A former president of the Illinois State Historical Society, he also continues to interact with leaders in various counties.
