Art Association of Jacksonville, Illinois records

Organization founded in Jacksonville, Illinois, December 17, 1873 for the study and appreciation of fine arts by the formation of a public collection of art works. The association was organized largely through the efforts of Mrs. Ella O. Brown, art teacher at the Woman’s College (MacMurray College). The association was incorporated in March 1875. The association acquired the Strawn mansion, a gift of the Phoebe Gates Strawn estate, as its permanent home (1915), where they hold art exhibitions and classes. A collection of Lower Mississippi Valley mound pottery is an outstanding feature.

The records consist primarily of board of directors’ meeting minutes, committee reports, clippings and program announcements detailing the activities and concerns of the association.