Echoes of Elgin: Timeless Tales from the Elgin History Museum

Stephen A. Douglas, candidate for Senate, passed through Elgin in 1858 after a debate in Freeport, IL against Abraham Lincoln.  If Douglas came through Elgin during his series of debates with Lincoln, does that mean Lincoln also came through Elgin? Let Abraham Lincoln SuperFan Mike Alft answer that question for you in this echo from February 12, 1984.

Earl Muntz was always one step ahead of the competition. His colorful personality and advertising methods made him "the master used car salesman of all time", according the Newsweek magazine.  Learn all about Madman Muntz in this echo from May 11, 1997.

When did Elgin see its first revolving door? When was the first television set purchased in Elgin?  Tune into this echo from October 20, 1996 to find out. 

The Elgin Academy Civil War monument was erected in 1909 and still stands outside the Elgin History Museum.  Learn its history, and some of the names it shows, in this echo from December 24, 2000.

Several famous people have passed through Elgin on their way other places.  Hear about a few, including 2 famous athletes, in this echo from July 24, 1988.

Learn about Elgin's first city jail in this echo from September 11, 1996.

This echo from May 5, 1985 gives a biography of James T. Gifford, Elgin's founder.

Working at the Elgin National Watch Company factory was a good job to have.  Listen to this echo from December 24, 2001 to hear some of the fringe benefits employees enjoyed.