The Western Illinois Museum invites the community to the next program in the History Belongs to All of Us conversation series on Thursday, May 28, featuring a discussion centered on the Museum’s War of 1812 Land Grant issued to Nicholas Welch.

This community conversation explores how paying soldiers with land helped catalyze American population expansion and shaped patterns of migration, land ownership, and settlement in the early United States. Using the original land grant document as a primary source, participants will reflect on how national policies influenced local development and family histories in McDonough County.

Following the conversation, guests will have an opportunity to tour the McDonough County Genealogical Society’s research center and learn about the resources available to help trace family histories and connections to the region.

Programs in the History Belongs to All of Us series are held at the Western Illinois Museum on Thursdays, beginning with Larry A’s Pizza from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by conversation and dessert at 6:30 p.m. A suggested $5 donation will be accepted at the door.

History Belongs to All of Us is a statewide initiative created and supported by Illinois Humanities to encourage residents to explore how local history connects to the national story and to see themselves reflected in the broader history of the country.