Zion Historical Society

We, as a people, preserve our history in order to communicate its lessons for the benefit of both present and future generations. The City of Zion has a most unique heritage—one that is worth preserving. An important part of that heritage is Shiloh House. The Zion Historical Society is charged with maintaining Shiloh House, a monument to Zion’s heritage, in honor of those who came before us and for the benefit of those who will carry us into the future.

The Zion Historical Society was established in 1967 by its first president, Wesley Ashland, a successful Zion jeweler. It consists of a general membership and is governed by a twelve-member Board of Directors. The Society’s main focus is maintaining Shiloh House, the home of Zion’s founder, Dr. John Alexander Dowie. The Society maintains a museum collection in Shiloh House. Artifacts of the period, many the personal property of the late Dr. and Mrs. Dowie, are on display. The Society continues to build on its collection through donations of photographs, documents, and artifacts by both past and present Zion residents. The Zion Historical Society is headquartered in Shiloh House. The Board of Directors meets there on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:00 p.m. The public is always welcome.

Support Us

The Society is a not-for-profit membership organization. If you have an interest in Zion’s History, become a member and support our activities. Members receive an informative quarterly newsletter. If you’d like to become a member, print the application below and mail it with your check, made payable to the Zion Historical Society, to Zion Historical Society, 1300 Shiloh Blvd., Zion, IL 60099.

Volunteer your time. Help with tours, landscaping, general cleaning, special projects and fundraising events is always needed.

The Society is eager to receive donations to help complete our research collections. All donations are tax deductible.