Albert Krans Livery Stable Museum
Updated: Jul 30
Address: Intersection of Erickson and Christina Streets, Bishop Hill, IL 61419
Operating Hours: The museum is seasonal (April-October), open weekdays 10 AM to 4 PM and on weekends during special events
Admission: Free (donations to the BH Heritage Association are welcome).
Website: bishophillheritage.org
The Albert Krans Livery Stable, a historic post-colony structure, is operated and preserved by the Bishop Hill Heritage Association (BHHA) as a stand-alone museum dedicated to early 20th-century transportation history.
Key Facts and History
Origin: Built in 1908, the stable was originally operated by Peter Albert Krans, who was the nephew of the famous Swedish-American folk painter Olof Krans. Olof painted the original sign that hung above the entrance.
Historical Purpose: Because a massive 200-horse stable sat nearby, historians believe this specific building was primarily used to store the carriages, tack, saddles, and reins of Bishop Hill rather than boarding the horses themselves.
Restoration: The BHHA restored the structure in 2015 and converted it into a public museum.