The Livingston County War Museum teaches about the wars that the people of Livingston County have participated in. There are many uniforms on display that have been donated to the museum. There is also a display of musical instruments used in the war effort. You can also see what a typical home in the 1940s looked like. If you're going to visit, check the hours to make sure that they'll be open when you go. read more

See all

It's interesting to see all the uniforms from past wars. Soldiers stories and uniforms on display with various medals also. Very old building the wooden floors are a reminder of days past. Plan to walk and climb stairs. Free entry a donation is appreciated. read more

Part of the Route 66 Museum Complex, this museum shows many uniforms from different branches of the military, as well as a small "Stage door canteen" that in non-Covid times looks like it might host live music? The docent downstairs says there is a veteran volunteer, but we didn't see anyone when we were here (perhaps it was the older gentleman in the lobby with her when we came back down, not wearing a mask?) Overall, this place would be of particular interest to veterans or military families; I wish I could have brought my late grandfathers, both WWII vets. As it is, I have a place to bring a friend who is a vet from the Navy the next time he visits Chicago! read more

See all

This is one of the three museums in the main building that covers three floors and I think that it was on the second floor. It has tons of military related items from model planes, model ships, pictures, uniforms, medals etc etc. I found all the mannequins in uniforms that were stacked everywhere kind of creepy because it's was like a prank waiting to happen like one was going to suddenly jump out at me and scared the sh#t out of me. It's neat and it's free but it's a small museum that would like a donation for looking at it. read more

See all

We stopped in Pontiac on our Route 66 trip. The visitor center recommended the museum and told us "the vets have a passion for it" - she wasn't kidding. Upon entering the museum, I was struck by the amount of items available to see and touch both rooms bursting at the seams. By far the best part is the vets that greet you and take you through the exhibits sharing stories and pointing out items they have contributed. It is such an honor to be able to learn from these fine men and women and they share everything in the space with such enthusiasm you can't help but get caught up in the experience. Each of the several uniforms in the museum has a tag with information about the owner including a picture when possible and they have marked the tags with stars to signify those we have lost. The museum offers information from all conflicts they can get info on, but has a particularly large amount of WWI and WWII section and is gathering an impressive amount of memorabilia from the current war as well. read more

Livingston County War Museum - Museums Near Me - Pontiac, Illinois

See all

What a powerful display. Well done with informed volunteers. I was overwhelmed. It is history in your face and undeniable. Free, there was a donation box. In same building as Route 66 Museum and a hop-on hop-off trolley leaves from back parking lot. All were free. read more

Wha...!? No one's reviewed this little gem yet!? A travesty! My wife and I travelled down Route 66 and only stopped in Pontiac to visit the IL Route 66 Hall Of Fame (which s in the same building). Having a penchant for war museums myself, I figured 'What the heck?' and walked upstairs to look around...WOW! My wife and I were greeted immediately upon entering by one of the docents, who was himself a WW2 vet of the Pacific theatre, who showed us around the entire time and shared a lot of personal stories about his (and the other veteran docents who weren't there) experiences. Unlike a lot of museums, the LC War Museum has mannequins set up all around the room attired in the uniforms of actual veterans from the county (and beyond), usually with a picture of the vet and a small biography card. Unbelievably, there were so many uniforms that not all of them could be displayed in this way! What a unique honor! In addition to the uniforms, there are exhibits from each of the major wars of the 20th century to today. many cases hold various items the soldiers used and more than a few have captured items from the enemies of the time. This was first place I have ever seen an actual MP40 machine gun, a captured Rising Sun flag, and a lot more. My wife and I were very honored to attend this veteran-owned and operated museum and to get a personal tour by a veteran who was quite friendly and open with us. if you're in the area, please so yourself a favor and stop by. You won't experience anything else like it. read more

Like other reviewers, we stopped here today while on a drive on Old Route 66. What I really loved about this museum was that unlike many other military museums we have been to over the years, this one reflected the people more than the machinery and hardware. If you want to get a feel for the troops ranging from WWI to present day, this is a great place to visit. You realize very quickly that behind each uniform you see, there is a real person who wore it in the service of their country. One could spend days here exploring and learning. We will absolutely be back. read more

For those who are traveling on Route 66 or are in the area of Pontiac, this is a must see. The museum focuses mostly on those from Livingston County and my guided tour was wonderful. These men and women fought for our country and need to be valued more and younger generations need to understand why these men and women did what they did and this museum does a wonderful job with it. read more

I've been here twice now and both times have been amazing! You could spend a full day here and probably still wouldn't see or read everything. God bless our troops! read more

A truly one of a kind museum. I have yet to visit a place like this. Being able to spending hours going from room to room examining items donated by our amazing Veterans and their families is mind-boggling, in a good way of course! They also have actual Veterans who have donated their uniforms and time to share their stories with those who walk though the doors. It is a touching experience for those young and old. Being able to learn, first hand, what these amazing men went through for our freedom was a wide awaking yet warmed my heart. The fact that they want to share their stories is priceless, and I feel it is somewhat therapeutic for them as well. I love this place and try to visit every time I am in town. I love the men in here not only for fighting for our country but for their warm hearts and kind smiles as well. read more

It's quite interesting to see close up the memorabilia from current and historic military operations. It's good for those who love history and I think good for children of a certain age who are studying American history. The docents are engaging and well-informed. A nice town too. read more