Arts & History

Arts & History

A Remarkable Past

In 1920, a businessman by the name of Jack Reagan moved his family into a home at 816 S. Hennepin Ave. in Dixon. His youngest son, Ronald, became a star of both the gridiron and the stage at Dixon High School, with the latter carrying him to a storied and illustrious career in Hollywood. But his ambitions would carry him even higher, and in 1980, the young boy from Dixon was elected the 40th president of the United States.

Dixon’s place in American history is undoubtedly cemented through the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, where visitors from around the country can walk in the former president’s footsteps in the community that shaped him. Destinations like the iconic arch honoring World War I veterans and our Smithsonian-affiliated museum tell the remarkable history of our community, but the stories of Dixon are more than just historical sites. They’re represented in the fabulous artistic expressions that have captivated hearts in minds throughout our community for generations, from our nonprofit fine arts center to our cabaret-style theater to our annual festival honoring Dixon’s youngest artists. Like Reagan himself, young artists are provided ample outlets to express themselves and further contribute to the legendary history of our community.

Featured Listing
Dixon Stage Left
Address
105 South Peoria Ave.
Dixon, IL
1-815-440-2999
Featured Listing
Franklin Creek Conservation Association
Address
1893 Twist Rd.
Franklin Grove IL 61031
815-440-4016
Featured Listing
John Deere Historic Site
Address
8334 S. Clinton St.
Dixon IL 61021
563-508-6089
Featured Listing
Loveland Community House & Museum
Address
513 W. 2nd St.
Dixon IL 61021
815-284-2741
Featured Listing
NTHC Logo
Short Description
Housed in the Boyhood School of President Ronald Reagan; The Northwest Territory Historic Center (NTHC) is a modern museum with local history and much to discover for everyone.
Address
205 West 5th Street
P.O. Box 345
Dixon IL 61021
815-288-5508
Hours
9AM-4PM Tuesday-Friday, 8AM-12PM on Saturdays, CLOSED SUNDAY & MONDAY
Featured Listing
Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home
Short Description
Visit the boyhood home of one of America’s most influential and beloved presidents.
Address
810 S. Hennepin Ave.
Dixon, IL 61021
815-288-5176
Hours
Thurs.-Sat., 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Featured Listing
The Dixon Historic Theatre
Address
114 S. Galena Ave.
Dixon IL 61021
779-250-9951
Featured Listing
The Next Picture Show
Address
113 W. 1st St.
Dixon IL 61021
815-285-4924
Dixon Telegraph Museum
Address
113 S Peoria Ave
(815) 284-2224
Heritage Crossing/Dixon Riverfront
Address
S Hennepin Ave
(815) 973-0931
Veteran’s Memorial Park
Address
668 II Rte 2
(815) 288-1911