The celebration will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors are invited to take a tour of the apartment where the Reagans lived and discover more of Tampico’s history.
The first 20 kids to attend (with an adult) and take a guided tour of the Birthplace and museum will receive a goodie bag. In addition, any students in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade will receive a free Junior Historian Club Membership Card for 2026 in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.
As America turns 250 years old in 2026, the Tampico Area Historical Society is doing its part by honoring a native whose legacy led him to Hollywood, a gubernatorial seat in California, and the White House.
In addition, those unfamiliar with Tampico’s rich history are encouraged to attend and learn more about Admiral Joseph Mason Reeves, inventor of the modern-day football helmet as well as the Father of Carrier Aviation, and John Shaheen, an OSS agent who led serious operations during World War II alongside the likes of catcher Moe Berg and Julia Child. Shaheen was also the brother-in-law of Hugh Downs, who was married to his sister, Ruth Downs. The Shaheen family owned and operated a grocery store while living in Tampico, Illinois.
The Tampico Area Historical Society can be found on Facebook and TikTok.
The Tampico Area Historical Society is part of the Time Traveler’s Network, and members receive discounts at any museum in the network. Those interested in membership may contact the society by email at tampicoareahistory@gmail.com.
