Rural Heritage Museum Cuts Ribbon

Perry County residents and surrounding communities caught a glimpse of the history of American agriculture at the Illinois Rural Heritage Museum in Pinckneyville on August 16. The museum hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its signature red barn as a preview of the many exhibits to come.

The Illinois Rural Heritage Museum unveiled the rural life section that details the history of farming and the American rural lifestyle. The exhibit allows visitors to view historic items from a doctor’s office, antique dental equipment and a general store.

“The museum will tell the story of the progression of life in rural America,” said Charlie Greer, who, along with his wife Mary, is overseeing the museum’s development. “We will look at the history of agriculture, education, business, transportation and other aspects. Every exhibit will tell a story about the hard work and values that made rural life appealing.”

In addition, several exhibits – yet to be completed – will reveal the progression of American agriculture from horse-drawn equipment to steam-powered machinery. As part of the various displays to come will be Monsanto’s exhibit on agriculture sustainability, which will outline the importance American farmers played in the past and how vital their role is today.

“Along with the past, we need to show where we are going in the ag world,” explained Greer.  “We need to understand where we’ve been in order to truly celebrate where agriculture is headed.”