Kane County Board Establishes Position of Local Historian
The Kane County Board has voted to formally establish the position of Local Historian, recognizing the importance of preserving and promoting the rich history of Kane County for current and future generations.
The new position, created through an amendment to Chapter 2 of the Kane County Code, aligns with the Illinois Local Historian Act (50 ILCS 130/0.01 et seq.), which authorizes counties to appoint a local historian. The role is designed to strengthen the county’s efforts to collect, preserve, and interpret historical records, artifacts, and events that shape Kane County’s story.
“This is about ensuring our shared history is documented, accessible, and celebrated,” said Kane County Board Chair Corinne Pierog. “By establishing a Local Historian, we’re committing to the stewardship of our county’s past so it can continue to inspire and inform future generations.”
Under the ordinance, the Local Historian will be an appointed, honorary volunteer position — serving without salary to minimize financial impact.
The Local Historian’s responsibilities will include:
Research & Collection: Gathering historical documents, photographs, and artifacts related to Kane County’s development.
Preservation & Interpretation: Ensuring historical materials and sites are properly preserved and their stories effectively told.
Coordination: Collaborating with municipal historians, historical societies, and local museums to promote shared historical initiatives.
Public Education: Sharing Kane County’s history through publications, exhibits, tours, and educational programs.
The historian will operate under the guidance of the Kane County Board Chair with advice and consent from the full Board and is expected to be appointed in November.
