Discover Millburn’s Rich History at Lake Villa District Library

A black and white historical photograph of an early 20th-century general store. A man with a mustache, wearing a suit and hat, stands behind a wooden counter filled with various goods. Shelves behind him are stocked with bottles, tins, and other merchandise. The store is cluttered with wooden crates, barrels, and sacks. The ceiling is made of wood, and light streams in from a window or door on the right side.

If you’re interested in learning what Lake County life was like in the early days, visit Lake Villa District Library (LVDL) and explore the Millburn Historic District Exhibit. In partnership with the Historic Millburn Community Association, the exhibit features artifacts and stories that bring the past to life. 

Millburn was founded in 1883 by Scottish immigrants who first claimed Lake County land along a flowing stream, or “burn,” that reminded them of home. With sawmills and gristmills soon established along the water, the settlement became known as Millburn, attracting more settlers and creating a thriving community of farmers and tradesmen. 

 “We’re proud to shine a light on this aspect of our local history,” said library director Mick Jacobsen. “LVDL is committed to fostering a sense of community pride and one way we do that is by celebrating our unique, local history.” 

Items featured in the exhibit depict “Who We Were”, “How We Worked”, “How We Played” and “What We Wore”. The exhibit also features information on Millburn’s involvement in the underground railroad. 

The Millburn Historic District Exhibit will be on display throughout the month of April, during library hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm; Friday 9am – 6pm; Saturday 9am -5pm; Sunday 1-5pm. 

Representatives from the Historic Millburn Community Association will present a program on Friday, April 11 at 1pm. Visit lvdl.org or call 847.245.5115 for more information. 

Lake Villa District Library enriches life by connecting people with resources, services, spaces and each other.  The library is located at 140 N. Munn Road, Lindenhurst, Illinois. 

Photo Credit: Martin's Gen'L Store interior and Mr. Pantall, 1905 by Bruce Pessink for Historic Nomination.