Pictured above is the GLHA information table at the event held at the DeSoto House on May 15, 16 and 17.

GLHA board members Mike and Milly Jones attended the recent Galena History Symposium. The symposium brought together historians, researchers and preservationists for a full weekend of activities including networking, presentations and tours of Galena and the surrounding lead mining area.

The symposium gave attendees an opportuntity to listen to panel discussions, and performances covering topics such as the mound-builder cultures, Native nations’ land rights, the booming 19th-century lead mining trade, Galena’s role as a busy Mississippi River port, and the hometown story of Ulysses S. Grant and his ally Elihu Washburne.

They also had a chance to engage with professional historians, avocational researchers, and preservationists. An immersive experience for both academic and traveler audiences.

Attendees also were able to explore Galena’s architectural legacy: the 19th-century commercial buildings, homes, and the historic fabric that draws visitors to our town year-round.

Mike Jones presented a session titled “John Henry Weber: Mountain Man Superintendent of Lead Mines.” In the presentation he discussed the role John Henry Weber played as Assistant Superintendent of Lead Mines, 1833-1836 and Superintendent of Lead Mines, 1836-1840 in Galena. Weber was a contemporary of the mountain men who lead expeditionary parties to map the west and find direct routes to California.

In addition, GLHA had a table where Mike and Milly Jones discussed the GLHA program with attendees. They received many positive comments about the GLHA work and fielded questions about the historic home plaque program.

A big thank you goes out to the organizers of the symposium for allowing us to be a part of this special event.