Best of Illinois History Annual Awards

About this program

The Illinois State Historical Society administers the Best of Illinois History Annual Awards to recognize contributions that further the collection, preservation, and interpretation of Illinois history, with honors judged by an ISHS-appointed committee and presented at an awards luncheon. Awards (Award of Superior Achievement, Certification of Excellence, Award of Merit) cover publications, non‑book materials, special projects (including websites), collections/preservation, public programming, lifetime achievement, and the Russell Lewis Award for a full‑time museum professional under age 30. Any individual, group, or organization that completed qualifying work generally within the preceding calendar year may be nominated; individuals may be nominated in only one category per year. Nominations require four copies of the nomination form and supporting materials (letters, reviews, media, planning/budget/evaluation where applicable), must be postmarked by November 30 with a $50 entry fee, and one copy of nominated publications will be retained by the ISHS; the Russell Lewis Award carries a stipend to attend the Midwest Museums Conference.