The First African American Musuem in Joliet

575 E. Jackson Street

Welcome to the Historic Casseday House – a cornerstone of Joliet's rich past, believed to be the city's oldest structure and a rare inhabitable gem in Will County. Built in 1851 with locally quarried limestone, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to Joliet's bygone era.

Commissioned by visionary George Casseday, the house's construction was fueled by speculation on the potential rise in land value with the advent of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Casseday's foresight paid dividends when he sold a substantial portion of his land to facilitate the construction of the iconic Old Joliet Prison.

In 2020, the Casseday House faced imminent demolition when Thorntons LLC sought to acquire the land it occupied. Recognizing its historical significance, preservationists rallied to declare it a historic landmark, successfully averting its demise. Thorntons, in a noble gesture, not only refrained from destroying the house but also covered the costs of relocating it.

The Will County Historical Society, taking ownership, partnered with the city of Joliet, which generously donated the land for the Casseday House's new home. Unfortunately, the ambitious transformation plans hit a roadblock with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the pandemic-induced hiatus, the Will County Historical Society faced constraints in providing the necessary resources for the project.

In a remarkable turn of events, the torch passed to History on Wheels in 2023. We seized the opportunity to breathe new life into the Casseday House, envisioning its transformation into the African Descendants Military and Historical Museum.

To mark the commencement of this transformative journey, we invite you to join us for a groundbreaking ceremony on June 19, 2024 – a date steeped in historical significance as we celebrate Juneteenth. Together, let us embark on this monumental endeavor to preserve history and create a space that honors the profound contributions of African Americans. The Casseday House stands as a symbol of resilience, and with your support, its legacy will endure for generations to come.