Historic House Plaque Program

The Galena Living History Alliance (GLHA) invites homeowners to celebrate and share the history of their homes through our Historic House Plaque Program. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Galena’s architectural heritage, GLHA helps connect today’s residents and visitors with the stories that make our community unique.

Owning a historic home is an important link to Galena’s past. A Historic House Plaque recognizes your home’s place in that history and allows you to share its story with neighbors and visitors for generations to come.

Homes built before 1930 are eligible for a plaque. There is no limit to the number of plaques awarded, and participation places no restrictions on future changes or use of your property.

Plaques are installed in a convenient location near the sidewalk—on a wall, fence, or signpost if needed—so they can be easily read without visitors approaching your home. GLHA provides installation at no cost. Homeowners pay only for the plaque ($135) and, if needed, an installation kit ($40), which includes a post, concrete, and fasteners.

Authentic and Locally Crafted

Each Historic House Plaque is designed to reflect Galena’s nineteenth-century character. After researching historic towns across the country, GLHA selected a simple, period-appropriate design. The plaques are cast locally by Nohr Casting in Galena and made to last.

Each 10″ x 14″ cast-iron plaque is coated with a rust inhibitor, painted black, and hand-lettered. The plaque includes:
*The year the home was built
*The name of the original homeowner
*The original homeowner’s occupation

If a significant addition has been made, the plaque can also include the year of the addition along with the owner’s name and occupation.

A Historic House Plaque is a lasting way to honor your home’s history while helping preserve the story of Galena for future generations.