County, State Museum Partner on 1908 Exhibit

The Sangamon County Board has approved a resolution authorizing the Illinois State Museum to contract with Display Dynamics, Inc. for the design of a major exhibit memorializing the 1908 Springfield Race Riot. The exhibit will be a centerpiece of the planned Sangamon County Transportation Hub, located near the historic site where the riot occurred more than a century ago.

Artifacts from the 1908 Race Riot were unearthed during archaeological excavations as part of the rail relocation project. Following community discussions, local leaders reached a consensus that a dedicated exhibit within the new transportation hub would be a vital element of both historical preservation and public education.

The State Museum will serve as the permanent repository for the artifacts and will oversee their care and display. Founded in 1952, the organization supports educational and research initiatives that promote stewardship and understanding of Illinois’ history. As part of its role, the State Museum will subcontract with Display Dynamics, Inc., a firm specializing in museum and exhibit design, to create and fabricate the display.

“The museum has been a phenomenal partner in developing the exhibit for the race riot artifacts that were discovered in the process of constructing the 10th Street rail program,” said Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter. “It's an extremely sensitive subject, and they’ve just handled it so well, and we are lucky to have them as a partner in this project that's gotten great reviews from everyone involved in it.”

The County Board’s resolution authorizes the State Museum to move forward with these efforts and requires that the final exhibit design be presented to the county for review and approval upon completion. Once complete, the exhibit will stand as a permanent reminder of the events of 1908 and the community’s continued commitment to remembrance, education, and unity.