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young men and women stand outside on concrete slab with musical instruments while older people listen to concert from lawn chairs.


Goldsmith Joins State Museum Board

(February 6, 2024) - John Goldsmith of Greenville, the founder and curator of the DeMoulin Museum, has been elected to the board of a state organization. Goldsmith was recently elected to a three-year term on the Illinois Association of Museums’ board of directors.
brown and green Illinois Association of Museums logo  The association’s mission is to provide advocacy, promote best practices, and foster the exchange of ideas for the museum community in Illinois. The IAM’s board consists of representatives from museum groups and historical groups across the State of Illinois.
 “I was honored to be asked to be a candidate for the board,” Goldsmith said. “I am equally honored to have been selected. I look forward to bringing the perspective of a small, volunteer-operated museum.”
 Citing the IAM’s philosophy of “Helping Museum People Be Better Museum People,” Goldsmith noted the importantce of learning from others. “There’s much we can share as a network of museums that can benefit each other.”
 For more information about the Illinois Association of Museums, visit their website at www.illinoismuseums.org.

DeMoulin Museum Has Record Year

(January 3, 2024) - To borrow from a classic Frank Sinatra song, “It Was a Very Good Year” at the DeMoulin Museum in 2023. Record attendance numbers were set with 1,327 people visiting the museum. This breaks the previous high of 1,315 set in 2015, when Greenville’s Bicentennial celebration attracted hundreds of people to the museum. According to John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator, they had visitors from 22 states plus the District of Columbia, 113 Illinois towns, and two foreign countries.
 “It was an incredible year by all accounts,” Goldsmith said. “We had almost thirty tour groups, which is an extraordinarily large number for us.”
 Along with big attendance, there were numerous other highlights including the release of the DeMoulin Museum’s coloring book in January, a program by former Fox2 traffic reporter Amelia Mugavero in February, the unveiling of new displays in June, a series of well received free concerts, and the airing of the “Small Town Big Deal” episode that was filmed in 2022.
 “The Small Town Big Deal” program ran three times throughout the year, each time attracting folks to the DeMoulin Museum,” Goldsmith noted.
 The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, tells the story of the founders, employees and products of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., the community’s first industry, and one of the oldest and most successful marching band uniform manufacturers in the United States.
 The museum’s first event of the year is the 2nd Annual Kids Day on Saturday, February 3 from 10 to noon, featuring a variety of free activities.

We’re Rockin’ Halloween Weekend!

(October 4, 2023) - The DeMoulin Museum in Greenville, known for its tricks, has a full weekend of Halloween activities planned for later this month. The annual Chili and Soup Supper is Friday, October 27 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The menu includes chili, vegetable soup, and potato soup, with a hot dog, dessert and drink. Cost is $8 for adults, $4 for children 5 to 12, with those under 5 eating for free. Carryouts and indoor dining will be available.
  On Saturday, October 28, the DeMoulin Museum is hosting Escape from the Museum, an escape room for teams of up to 8 people. Teams will have one hour to solve clues to escape from the fraternal lodge side of the museum. Cost is $100 per team. A 10:00 p.m. slot still remains. If there is interest, the museum will add 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. slots on Sunday, October 29. For more information about Escape from the Museum, call the museum at 618-664-4115.
  The tradition of showing classic movies returns to the DeMoulin Museum on Sunday, October 29 with Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein being the spotlighted film. This year marks the 75th anniversary of this comedy classic. As an added attraction, Chris Costello, daughter of the late Lou Costello, will do a Q & A session via Zoom beginning at 1:30 p.m. The movie will begin immediately after. The movie and refreshments are offered free of charge.
  We’re wrapping up our Halloween fun with a Candy Trail at the Museum on October 31 from 6 to 8pm for kids 12 and under. Families can walk through the museum to see our Halloween decorations while making candy stops. There will be Halloween-themed goodie bags for the first 35 kids. Plus a chance to win a Kahuna’s gift card.
  The museum will be decorated throughout the month for Halloween in a fun, spooky motif. Regular hours are Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Special tours for groups of 6 or more may be arranged for anytime by calling 618-664-4115 or emailing goatmuseum@gmail.com The DeMoulin Museum, which tells the story of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., is located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville.

Museum Hosts 2nd Sewing Workshop

(October 1, 2023) - The DeMoulin Museum hosted its 2nd Annual Sewing Workshop in conjunction with Bond County 4H Sunday, October 1, 2023. Eight youngsters, seven girls and one boy, attended the session, during which they made pillow covers—each with a pocket to hold a book. The kids were also given DeMoulin Museum coloring books. A HUGE thank you to our volunteer instructors: Grace Haynes, Carin Hilpert, Ashleigh Peacock, Carol Steinkamp, Melissa Steinkamp, Paige Todd, and Marcia Walker, all of whom are past or present employees of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. This workshop would not happen without their expertise! We also thank Cheralee Vohlken with the Bond County University of Illinois Extension office for helping coordinate the event.

2nd Annual DeMoulin Employee Picnic

(September 25, 2023) - The smiles and memories were flowing Sunday afternoon, September 24, 2023, at the DeMoulin Museum during our 2nd Annual DeMoulin Employee Picnic. Current and former employees covering the past 60 years gathered for lunch and fellowship. Those attending represented several departments including the cap and gown division, which was sold in 1982. It’s an honor for us to host this event. We’re already looking forward to the next reunion in September 2024! Thanks to DeMoulin Museum volunteers Kent Alexander and Gina Goldsmith for coordinating the food, and Barb Weise, Grace Haynes, and Pam Tompkins for providing desserts.

people of all ages eating lunch at long tables outside, renewing friendships and sharing memories.
three rows of people in casual attire outside a white museum building
white haired older woman looks thorugh photo scrapbook with younger blonde woman
GHS Marching Comets’ Day at Museum

(September 25, 2023) - We had a jolly good time Friday afternoon, September 22, 2023, hosting the Marching Comets for a barbecue lunch, a concert on the grounds, and tour of the museum. The band is under the direction of Megan McPeak, while the flags are under the direction of Joni Barth. Around 40 people attended the concert. A big thank you to DeMoulin Museum board member Tom Dawdy for doing the grilling! Concert photos courtesy of Walker Photography: find more on our Facebook Page. Plus, here’s a glimpse at the shenanigans that went on during the tour. Disclaimer: No band members were harmed during the making of these photos.

high school students from Greenville High School marching band perform a concert and flag show on the museum grounds
museum curator explains how the knife board works while a female high school student is strapped to it fearfully
Museum Introducing New Displays

(June 25, 2023) - UPDATE: Saturday was a special day at the DeMoulin Museum as we unveiled our new outdoor display, Tools of the Seamstress, in memory of DeMoulin employees Frances Ulmer and Patsy Koonce. Among those speaking at the program was Kaylee Garrison, granddaughter of Patsy. Our emcee for the unveiling was Amelia Mugavero from Fox 2 in St. Louis. Photo credit to Bill Walker. The display was made by Johnson Signs & Designs of Greenville.
  A second unveiling was held Saturday for the new display spotlighting the 2012 Super Bowl Halftime Show marching band uniforms made by DeMoulin. The factory made uniforms for a 100-piece drumline that performed with Madonna and CeeLo Green. Josh Torres, band director at Center Grove HS in Indianapolis, directed the drumline. He provided the uniform and photos for the display and participated in the unveiling and roundtable discussion that also included curator John Goldsmith and DeMoulin retiree Marcia Walker who was a supervisor on the Super Bowl Halftime uniform project. Amelia Mugavero of Fox 2 in St. Louis was the emcee. Photo credit to Bill Walker.

New outdoor display, Tools of the Seamstress, in memory of DeMoulin employees Frances Ulmer and Patsy Koonce.
Josh Torres directed the drumline, provided the uniform and photos for the display and participated in the unveiling and roundtable discussion that also included curator John Goldsmith and DeMoulin retiree Marcia Walker who was a supervisor on the Super Bowl Halftime uniform project.


(June 15, 2023) - The DeMoulin Museum will hold two special dedication ceremonies on Saturday, June 24 to unveil new displays. Both will be emceed by Amelia Mugavero from Fox2 in St. Louis.
  The first unveiling is at 10:00 a.m. for a permanent outdoor display honoring the late Frances Ulmer and Patsy Koonce, both of whom were DeMoulin employees. The families of both ladies had designated the DeMoulin Museum for memorial contributions. The display is entitled “Tools of the Seamstress” and features a large spool of thread and needle.
  “In recent years, tourists have been attracted to oversized things in Casey, Illinois and other communities,” explained John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator. “Museum board member Jeff Leidel had suggested we add an outdoor display to our grounds, and we had the memorial money from Frances and Patsy but no project. All of these factors came together, leading us to what we’ll be unveiling.”
  A short program will be held prior to the unveiling. All family members, friends, and co-workers of Frances Ulmer and Patsy Koonce are invited.
  The second dedication ceremony will begin at approximately 10:20 a.m. A new indoor display spotlighting the 2012 Super Bowl half-time show band uniforms made by DeMoulin Bros. & Co. will be unveiled. The Super Bowl was held that year in Indianapolis and the half-time program was led by Madonna with an appearance by CeeLo Green. Toward the end of the performance, a 100-piece drumline joined in. DeMoulin made the marching band uniforms exclusively for this show.
  Don Adamski, DeMoulin president, remembered, “This entire project had to be kept secret even to our own personnel due to contract requirements, and had to be rushed through in six weeks through the November and December months, in which we are normally closed for the holiday season. So, you can imagine how difficult and stressful it was, as the date of the Super Bowl does not get changed. In typical DeMoulin fashion, the order was delivered on time and looked and performed great on stage.”
  Josh Torres, an Indianapolis high school music teacher who directed the drumline, has loaned one of the original uniforms and several photos for the display. There will be a short program to discuss the background on the project prior to the unveiling. DeMoulin employees who worked on these band uniforms are encouraged to attend. The public is also welcome.
  The morning will conclude with free refreshments. The DeMoulin Museum is located at 205 South Prairie Street in Greenville. For more information, call 618-664-4115.

Museum Celebrating Photography Month

(May 3, 2023) - In honor of National Photography Month, the DeMoulin Museum is hosting a special program and showcasing a new display on Thursday, May 11 at 7:00 p.m.
  Ed DeMoulin, founder of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., moved to Greenville in 1887 to open a photo studio on the west side of the downtown square. For the next 12 years, DeMoulin, and later his wife Anna, took photos of the people and places of the community. Perhaps his most ambitious project was an 1892 photo album spotlighting dozens of pictures of businesses, churches, schools, and homes in Greenville.
  Curator John Goldsmith will do a brief program on the history of the DeMoulin Photo Studio. This will be followed by a panel discussion featuring local photographers Bryson Buehrer, Jason Gray, Joe Richardson, and Bill Walker. Each has selected five of their own photos that they’ll discuss, along with sharing insight on how they approach their craft.
  Anyone with an interest in local history and photography is encouraged to attend this free program.
  The special display will feature nearly 200 DeMoulin Studio cabinet card photographs from museum curator John Goldsmith’s personal collection. These are photos of children, couples, families, and groups, most of whom are unidentified. Those attending the program are encouraged to help the museum identify the people in the images. The cabinet cards will remain on display through the end of May.
  National Photography Month was established in 1987 at the urging of the American Photographers Association. The DeMoulin Museum is located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville.

sepia photographs on cabinet cards, full length poses of men, weomen, children wearing dress typical of late 19th, early 20th centuries
DeMoulin Museum Wins State Award

(April 25, 2023) - The DeMoulin Museum is very proud to announce that for the first time in their 13-year history, they’ve been selected for an award from the Illinois Association of Museums (IAM). The official announcement was made Friday, April 21, at the conclusion of the IAM’s annual conference.
  The Award of Merit is for Community Partnership with the DeMoulin Museum being selected for its Sewing Workshops held last year in conjunction with the Bond County U of I Extension and Bond County 4-H. Casey’s General Store provided a small grant to cover the cost of supplies and the DeMoulin factory donated material.
  There are many people to thank. That list begins with Lauren McDade who suggested the idea. She is DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith’s niece and he is proud of her for making the suggestion.
  Eight girls participated in the two sessions, during which they made draw-string bags for their sewing supplies, and table runners.
  The key to the success of this project was the volunteer instructors: Grace Haynes, Caren Hilpert, Donna Powell, Carol Steinkamp, Michelle Krieg, and Patsy Koonce. All six of these ladies brought years of DeMoulin experience to the workshops. It was truly wonderful watching them interact with the kids. This award comes with sadness as museum friend Patsy passed away on Thursday, April 20; this award is dedicated in her memory.
  The museum hopes to offer other events like this in the future. Goldsmith called the workshops magical: “To watch the kids interact with the seasoned professionals was one of the the greatest moments in the museum’s hisstory.”
  On behalf of everyone involved in last year’s workshops, the DeMoulin Museum is incredibly proud of this honor.

three mature women at a table of three white sewing machines green ribbon and gray circle website badge recognizing Illinois Association of Museum's 2023 Award of Merit for Community Partnership

Grace Haynes, Patsy Koonce, and Michelle Krieg test the sewing machines prior to the May 2022 4-H Sewing Workshop hosted by the DeMoulin Museum. The project earned the museum a Community Partnership award from the Illinois Association of Museums. The award is being dedicated in the memory of Koonce, who passed away recently.

Eagle Scout Project Benefits DeMoulin Museum

(April 7, 2023) - Bradley Larson, a member of Greenville Boy Scout Troop #8057, needed an Eagle Scout project and the DeMoulin Museum also had a need. The end result was a new storage shed behind the museum.
  A ceremony was held Saturday, April 1, allowing museum board members Tom Dawdy, Grace Haynes, and Jeff Leidel a chance to recognize Bradley for his work.
  Last year Larson asked the museum if they had a need he might fulfill for his extensive Eagle service project. The museum had had a storage shed on its wish list and quickly told Larson about it.   For outdoor concerts, dinners, and events, they needed a building for tables, chairs, and non-artifacts.
  Larson went to work. He estimates that he spent 90 hours and had 18 volunteers to help. A local business donated materials.
  Museum Director and curator John Goldsmith said while the shed isn’t related to DeMoulin history or artifacts, the new shed is an important addition as it will help the museum function. He said officials thought they had enough storage space when they moved into their current location, they’ve needed more.
  Goldsmith said the shed will eventually be painted.

gray haired main in winter coat shakes hand of young man with red beard wearing tan scouting shirt in front of golden wood lumber shed door

Board secretary Tom Dawdy congratulates Bradley Larson on his Eagle Scout project. Also present were board members Grace Haynes and Jeff Leidel, who is board vice president.

“Small Town Big Deal” To Air Musuem Episode

(March 1, 2023) - UPDATE: The Small Town Big Deal episode on the DeMoulin factory and museum is now available for streaming on the show’s YouTube channel. Thanks again to Rodney, Jann and their crew for a memorable visit. They were at the museum last June and spent five hours capturing the roughly 10 minutes of museum footage you’ll see. A great experience!

(February 21, 2023) - We’ve finally confirmed air dates for the episode taped last year!
  The episode of the syndicated television program Small Town Big Deal featuring the DeMoulin Museum and DeMoulin factory is scheduled to air locally on Sunday, February 26. There will be one airing in the St. Louis market that day: at 4:30 a.m. on KTVI. The show will also appear on RFD Network, a nationally available channel, on Wednesday, March 1 at 6:00 p.m. and Thursday, March 2 at 1:00 a.m. Small Town Big Deal, a 30-minute program, is carried by local affiliates in 45 states.
  Hosts Rodney Miller and Jann Carl visited the DeMoulin Museum and DeMoulin Bros. factory in early June 2022.

AV tech man points video camera at blond woman strapping belts on neck and wrists of white haired man onto tall green fraternal initiation board device
Tv Reporter Featured Guest At Museum

(March 1, 2023) - UPDATE: Amelia Mugavero of Fox 2 put together a story and video package from her visit to the DeMoulin Museum last week! It aired Wednesday (March 1st) on Fox 2 in the Morning at 6:30am and 8:30am. Thanks, Amelia, for a wonderful story on the DeMoulin Museum and DeMoulin factory! The museum is fortunate to have a great friend like you!

(January 12, 2023) - Amelia Mugavero, morning traffic anchor for Fox2 Now in St. Louis, will be sharing her story at a special program Monday, February 20 at the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville. Mugavero, a University of Illinois graduate, has a unique connection to DeMoulin Bros. & Co. She is a world champion baton twirler and held the prestigious position of Featured Twirler for the Marching Illini. There she twirled for all home games, as well as performed at Chicago Bears games, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland. DeMoulin has been manufacturing Marching Illini uniforms for over 100 years, one of which is on display at the museum.
  Amelia was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, but left the Lone Star State for the Midwest in 2015 to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism. Her earliest experiences were as an intern for Fox and CBS TV affiliates in Texas and Illinois. In 2019, she joined the news team for Oklahoma CBS affiliate, KOTV News on 6, where she covered stories ranging from flooding to the COVID-19 pandemic to features on Native American tribes. Mugavero has been with KTVI Fox 2 since November 2021.
  She holds two other interesting distinctions. Amelia competed in the Miss Illinois pageant and was first runner-up to Miss Illinois 2016. Amelia and her mom were contestants on the Price is Right in March 2019. Those attending the program can expect to hear some memorable stories.
  Doors will open at 12:45 p.m. with the program to begin at 1:00 p.m. on February 20. This is a free event. Tickets are not required, but seating will be first come, first serve. The DeMoulin Museum is located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville. For more information, call (618) 664-4115 or email goatmuseum@gmail.com.

brunette woman in yellow dress
athletic young woman wearing orange and blue collegiate twirling uniform on green football field
Museum Celebrating New Kids Coloring Book

(January 6, 2023) - The DeMoulin Museum is hosting a special Kids Day on Saturday, January 21 from 10 to noon. The event will include the release of the museum’s first coloring and activity book for kids. A grant from Southwestern Electric Cooperative’s Operation RoundUp funded the creation and printing of the book, which will be provided for free to children visiting the museum. Other activities that day include a performance by Professor Longhair’s Magic Show at 10:30, face painting, an area where kids can try on vintage DeMoulin-made marching band uniforms, and refreshments. Everything is free of charge.

yellow wooly goat in front of white museum building exterior.
Museum Curator Selected For Roads Scholar Program

(December 19, 2022) - The curator of the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville is among 30 people selected by the Illinois Humanities Council for its Illinois Roads Scholar program. John Goldsmith is one of 11 new speakers added to the Illinois Roads Scholar roster for the 2023-2024 cycle. The program, launched in 1997, connects Illinois writers, storytellers, historians, folklorists, musicians, and living history actors, with local nonprofit organizations—including libraries, museums, arts councils, historical societies, civic groups, and many others. These organizations can book speakers through the Illinois Humanities Council, at no cost. The Council covers the speaker’s fee, lodging and mileage.
red and blue Illinois Humanities logo   Goldsmith has been doing his program, Three Frenchmen and a Goat: The DeMoulin Bros. Story, for many years, having made appearances as far away as California and New York. However, Goldsmith says being included in the Illinois Roads Scholar program opens up opportunities to share the story across the State.
  “Being chosen a Roads Scholar is an incredible honor. There were over 50 speakers who applied, so making the final cut is very humbling. I’m excited about telling the DeMoulin story and promoting the DeMoulin Museum to parts of Illinois I’ve never visited.”
  The Illinois Humanities Council describes Goldsmith’s program as “the story of three enterprising young men who founded a fraternal supply company in 1892 that today is one of the biggest manufacturers of marching band uniforms. It’s an entertaining tale of trick chairs, strength testers, graduation caps and gowns, and band uniforms.”
  For more information about the Illinois Roads Scholar Program, visit the Illinois Humanities Council’s website at www.ilhumanities.org.

Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland Coming To Museum

(November 13, 2022) - Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland was a huge hit tonight (Saturday, November 26, 2022) at the DeMoulin Museum. Over 200 people attended (our biggest crowd ever for a night event!) Thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and visitors for making it a special evening!

(ORIGINAL STORY) - The DeMoulin Museum will be converted to Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland on Saturday, November 26, in conjunction with Greenville’s Come Home For Christmas celebration. The highlight of the evening will be a live reindeer from Morning Star Reindeer. The museum and grounds will be adorned with decorations inspired by the classic 1964 animated version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Children can make their own Christmas ornament. The first 50 children who visit the museum that evening will receive a Rudolph goodie bag. Kids can also register to win a Rudolph gift basket. The museum will also be serving eggnog from the Milk House. The museum will be open from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with the reindeer arriving around 5:30 p.m. The reindeer appearance is courtesy of Bond County Realtors, the Goldsmith Family, The Milk House, Thacker Insurance Service, 3 Point Ink, TNT RV & Generator Services, and Walker Photography. All activities at the museum are free.

brown baby reindeer with red nose, white furred yeti says Mmmmm Egg Nog., and small boy elf in blue coat and blue hat and pointed shoes.
Demoulin Museum Reunion A Success

(September 23, 2022) - The DeMoulin Museum hosted its first DeMoulin Bros factory employee reunion on Sunday, September 18. Museum curator John Goldsmith said the reunion was enjoyed by everyone. Especially for the first year, it was a great turnout, with around 30 current, former, and retired employees covering various departments and eras. The group enjoyed lunch outside the museum, the toured the inside of the museum. Goldsmith said there were alot of memories and stories shared. Some hadn’t seen the museum before. Based on the interest in the event and feedback, Goldsmith believes this will become an annual event. Hear sound bytes from curator John Goldsmith at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News.

three rows of people in casual attire outside a white museum building
blond woman takes a phone selfie with a woman wearing sunglasses

Photos by Kimberly Lovatto, museum photographer. We’ll do it again in September 2023!

Museum Hosting Special Picnic

(August 1, 2022) - The DeMoulin Museum is hosting its first reunion picnic for current, former, and retired employees of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. in Greenville, IL. Founded in 1892, DeMoulin is one of the area’s longest running industries and is one of the few marching band uniform manufacturers remaining in the United States. The picnic is Sunday, September 18 from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. at the museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville. Those attending are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and photos to share.
  The day will include a free lunch of hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, drinks, and homemade desserts. Those attending will have a chance to tour the museum, reminisce, and share their memories. The event is open to all former and current DeMoulin employees from all departments, no matter the length of time worked.
  The reunion is being coordinated by DeMoulin retirees Barb Weise and Grace Haynes, who now serve on the museum’s board of directors. The museum hopes this will become an annual event.
  For more information, contact the DeMoulin Museum at 618-664-4115 or goatmuseum@gmail.com. An RSVP is required by 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 13.

Local Woman is 11,000th Visitor to DeMoulin Museum

(June 6, 2022) - Sue Wade of Greenville holds the distinction of being the DeMoulin Museum’s 11,000th visitor since opening in March 2010. Wade was attending the Celebration barbershop quartet concert at the museum Sunday, June 5 when she became the landmark visitor. She received a complimentary DeMoulin Museum t-shirt, coffee mug, and keychain.

Smiling woman with white hair and eyeglasses holds white mug and green tee shirt
DeMoulin Museum Hosts Sewing Class

(May 14, 2022) - The DeMoulin Museum and the University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H program held a sewing workshop for kids Thursday, May 12 at the museum. Eight girls learned the basics of using a sewing machine, then made a drawstring bag they could take home. The instructors were current and former DeMoulin Bros. & Co. employees, who collectively have over 125 years of experience. The teachers were Grace Haynes, Caren Hilpert, Patsy Koonce, Michelle Krieg, Donna Powell, and Carol Steinkamp.
  The workshop was the idea of Lauren McDade, niece of DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith. “It was a fantastic idea and felt like a natural extension of what we do at the museum,” Goldsmith commented.
  Vicki Enloe, 4-H/Youth Program Coordinator, described the class as “a very unique experience for the youth of Bond County.” Enloe also praised the evening’s instructors. “The ladies did an amazing job teaching the basics of sewing. It was certainly a wonderful partnership and I look forward to working with the museum and volunteers in the future.”
  The museum received a grant from Casey’s General Store to pay for some of the supplies the girls needed. DeMoulin Bros. & Co. donated material. A second workshop for the same group of youngsters will be scheduled in the near future.
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, is open Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Group tours may be arranged for any time. Admission is by donation.

Carol Steinkamp works with one of the girls who attended the 4-H Sewing Workshop hosted by the DeMoulin Museum.

Carol Steinkamp works with one of the girls who attended the 4-H Sewing Workshop hosted by the DeMoulin Museum.

Museum Day to be the G.O.A.T. at Demoulin Museum

(May 2, 2022) - The DeMoulin Museum is participating in Greenville’s 2nd Annual Museum Day May 7.
  We will be open with extended hours (9a to 3p) with some special activities including Professor Longhair’s Magic Show from 10 to 10:30; a goat petting zoo from 10 to 12; balloon animals from 10:30 to 11:00; and face painting by Miss Bond County Bri Ulmer from 10:30 to 11:30.
  All activities are FREE!
  Pick up a “Museum Day Passport” and map at any of the 9 stops. Most locations will include special features for Museum Day.

Demoulin Museum Launches Membership Club

(January 20, 2022) - The DeMoulin Museum is offering a chance for its fans to become more involved. Goat Riders, Friends of the DeMoulin Museum, is a new club open to the public. Membership levels are $15 for individuals and $20 for families. Perks for joining include a membership card, quarterly newsletter (via email or regular mail), email alerts on museum happenings, and discounts on museum brick purchases, some merchandise, and tickets to the annual biscuit and gravy breakfast or soup supper.
  “The museum’s board has been thinking about creating a fan club for several years,” explained John Goldsmith, the museum’s curator. “We have museum friends from coast to coast, and this seems like a great way to bring everyone together.”
  This March will mark the museum’s 12th anniversary. Over 10,000 visitors from around the world have made the trip to Greenville to see the unique items made by DeMoulin Bros. & Co.
  Details may be found on the museum’s website at www.demoulinmuseum.org or Facebook page. You may also call the museum at (618) 664-4115.
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, is open Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Group tours may be arranged for any time. Admission is by donation.

DeMoulin Museum Reflects On 2021

(January 10, 2022) - Following a year in which COVID-19 restrictions led to only 205 people walking through its doors, the DeMoulin Museum bounced back in 2021 with 729 visitors coming from 18 states. In May, the museum participated in Greenville’s Museum Day celebration, and welcomed its 10,000th visitor that same day, Deb Glisson of Pocahontas. A goat petting zoo, caricature artist, and food truck were other highlights of Museum Day at the DeMoulin Museum.
  In March, the museum held a reception honoring DeMoulin employee Grace Haynes on the 60th anniversary of when she began working for the company. Haynes retired later that year and is now one of the museum’s volunteers.
  Due to the pandemic, the museum’s 10th anniversary banquet was pushed back a year to August 2021. Speakers included Greenville mayor George Barber, Greenville tourism director Jes Adam, and museum volunteer Olivia Balkenbush, and a performance by the Ragged Blade Band from St. Louis.
  October saw the DeMoulin Museum and Bond County Museum co-hosting a 150th birthday celebration for Ulysses S. DeMoulin, one of the original brothers who launched the company in the 1890s.
  Along with its mission to tell the story of the founders, unique products, and employees of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., the museum also seeks opportunities to present cultural activities for the community. In 2021, the museum hosted concerts by the Greenville Municipal Band and the Greenville University Marching Band, and showcased classic 1930s comedies during its Sunday Shorts film festival.
  Special visitors during the year included representatives from the Detroit Masonic Temple Library Archive and Research Center; Heath White from New London, Ohio, who gave a program on the C.E. Ward Supply Company, an early 20th century competitor of DeMoulin Bros. & Co.; and group tours by the American Association of Railroaders of St. Louis and the Lake St. Louis History Club. In September, square dancers from Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana gathered in front of the museum for Squarefest, followed by a tour.
  Museum curator John Goldsmith was a guest in February on Modern Goat Riders, a Canadian-based podcast focusing on fraternal history. Goldsmith also spoke at the Centralia Area Historical Museum in July.
  Several DeMoulin-made artifacts were obtained in 2021 including three initiation devices−the Trick Chair, the Surprise Chair, and Royal Bumper Goat−and a robe made in 1979 for then Bond County Circuit Judge John DeLaurenti. The museum is always looking for items related to the factory’s history.
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, is open Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Group tours may be arranged for any time. Admission is by donation.

Our Final Fundraiser of 2021 Is A Sweet One! + Meet Snoopy

(November 19, 2021) - The DeMoulin Museum’s annual Cookie Walk returns Saturday, December 4 with a Bake Sale added. Hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the museum. Our amazing volunteers will be preparing some incredible baked goodies for your holiday season! Also, due to a scheduling conflict Snoopy was unable to be with us at Come Home for Christmas but WILL be at our Cookie Walk Saturday morning from 11 to noon!

red and green text, cookies in cut out shapes of white snowman, green fir tree, brown and red gingerbread man
white and black dog illustration eating brown cookies out of a purple box
Full Night of Activities at DeMoulin Museum

(November 4, 2021) - The DeMoulin Museum will once again be participating in Greenville’s annual Come Home for Christmas celebration. The museum will be open from 5:00 to 8:00 pm on Saturday, November 27 with several free activities. From 5:00 to 7:00 pm kids can make their own Christmas photo ornament, one ornament per child, all materials provided free, while supplies last. Peanuts Christmas goodie bags will be handed out to the first 50 kids who visit the museum. Beginning at 7:00 pm Snoopy will be posing for photos (parents, bring your own cameras), followed by a showing of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” at 7:30pm.
  The museum is located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville. Along with the free kids’ activities, the public is welcome to tour the museum.
  For more information, call the DeMoulin Museum at (618) 664-4115.

text on white poster inside red and gold border, red holiday ribbons, gold bells, green evergreen sprigs
Museums Commemorating U.S. DeMoulin 150th

(September 20, 2021) - Two Greenville museums are celebrating the 150th anniversary of U.S. DeMoulin’s birth. DeMoulin was born October 3, 1871 in Jamestown, Illinois, and moved to Greenville in 1895 to join his brother Edmund’s fraternal supply business. Upon his brother’s retirement, U.S. became company president, a title he held until his death in 1955. Along with leading DeMoulin Bros. & Co., he was also co-founder of the Greenville Municipal Band, a member of the Greenville City Council, and donated the land that would later become the site of the hospital.
  On Sunday, September 26 at 1:30 p.m., the DeMoulin Museum and Bond County Museum will conduct a wreath-laying ceremony at U.S. DeMoulin’s gravesite in Montrose Cemetery.
  The two museums are hosting a 150th birthday party to honor U.S. DeMoulin on Sunday, October 3. Both museums will be open from 1 to 3 p.m. that day.
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie St., will have free hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and drinks while supplies last. A special display titled “U.S. DeMoulin In His Own Words”, featuring portions of his autobiography, will be unveiled that day.
  The Bond County Museum, located at 409 S. Fourth St., in the former U.S. DeMoulin home, will have free cake and punch. The museum features a display on DeMoulin.
  The public is welcome to the wreath-laying ceremony and the birthday celebration.

Demoulin Museum Showing Comedy Classics

(August 29, 2021) - The DeMoulin Museum will be hosting Sunday Shorts, a short film festival, on Sunday September 12 at 2:00 p.m. There will be four shorts from the 1930s featuring Porky Pig, the Three Stooges, Our Gang, and Laurel & Hardy. Based on the success of the silent film series the museum offered in 2019, the decision was made to focus on talking shorts starring some of the most beloved performers from that era. Each will be introduced with information about that particular feature.
  “We had a lot of fun two years ago with the silent movies,” explained John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator, “But we felt doing shorts from the 1930s might have a wider appeal.”
  Goldsmith said he and fellow film buffs John Coleman and Tom Varner selected the lineup. Goldsmith believes it will be a great afternoon of classic entertainment. “Sunday Shorts is an extension of the museum’s efforts to offer a variety of nostalgic entertainment. We believe we’ve selected some things everyone will enjoy.”
  Admission is free and complimentary soda and popcorn will be available. Seating will be first come, first serve. The DeMoulin Museum is located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville.

black and white film stills of 1930s male adult and child hollywood stars wearing bowler hats, bow ties, comic suits
DeMoulin Museum Hosting Program On Fraternal Companies

(July 16, 2021) - The DeMoulin Museum is hosting a free program Saturday, July 24 at 9:30 a.m. featuring Heath White whose late stepfather was the owner of Fraternal Supplies, a New London, Ohio business that was formerly known as C.E. Ward Company. Heath will share stories and photos of how DeMoulin Bros.’ competitors during the fraternal era eventually merged into C.E. Ward. He’ll also explain his stepfather’s efforts to save the company from closing in 1987.
  White says when his stepfather died in 2016 he left behind a “rapidly deteriorating factory building with a leaking roof and broken windows that contained the rusting, moldy, bug infested remains of Fraternal Supplies.” White stepped up to assist his mother with settling the estate but admitted, “At the time I knew nothing about the company other than they made swords and fraternal stuff. I couldn’t tell you what a fraternal organization was, didn’t know anything about swords, didn’t know what a stamping die was, and wasn’t at all familiar with military equipage or the regulations that specified how military goods needed to be made.”
  In his efforts to liquidate what was left behind, White began reading the history of fraternalism and the companies that merged into C.E. Ward Company. He soon discovered many sources were not accurate. “Realizing I couldn’t trust published information to be accurate about the companies or artifacts here I started doing my own research,” White explained. “I’ve been working on this for the past two years and am uncovering new clues and information on a regular basis that changes or adds to the story.”
  White’s program will include stories about his efforts to sell some of the artifacts and his desire to preserve others. According to White, “My degree is in Finance and I owned a company selling carved stone products to the garden industry. I retired when I was 45 and now work seven days a week either at my farm or in my office researching, cleaning, and documenting Fraternal Supplies artifacts. Or if you ask my 15-year-old daughter, I do absolutely nothing.”
  DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith is looking forward to White’s visit. “We’ve exchanged several emails over the past few months and I think everyone will be fascinated by this journey Heath is taking. We’re also excited to share the DeMoulin story with him. This is a rare opportunity to hear about DeMoulin’s competition during the fraternal era.”
  Following the program, White will take questions from the audience and spend time at the museum visiting with the crowd. There is no charge for the program or admission to the museum. Free refreshments will also be served. The museum’s doors will open at 9:15 a.m. The DeMoulin Museum is located 205 S. Prairie in Greenville. For more information, call (618) 664-4115 or email.

DeMoulin Museum Celebration Rescheduled

(July 13, 2021) - The The DeMoulin Museum’s 10th anniversary banquet, postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19, will be held Saturday, August 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the Milk House in Greenville. The evening will include a meal, program, and live music from the Ragged Blade Band of St. Louis.
  Tickets previously sold for the celebration will be honored. Those unable to attend and are seeking a refund, may bring their tickets to the DeMoulin Museum on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. through August 7. Those wishing to purchase tickets, which are $15 per person or $25 per couple, $7 for children 12 and under, may contact the museum at (618) 664-4115.
  The DeMoulin Museum is dedicated to the founders, employees, and unique products of DeMoulin Bros. and Co. Known today as the nation’s leading maker of marching band uniforms, the factory got its start in 1892 as a manufacturer of initiation devices and regalia for fraternal lodges. The museum is located at 205 S. Prairie St. in Greenville.

Milestone Visitor For DeMoulin Museum

(May 19, 2021) - Congratulations to Deb Glisson of Pocahontas, Illinois! She is the DeMoulin Museum’s 10,000th visitor since our opening on March 20, 2010. She and her grandson Camren were visitors during Greenville’s Museum Day on Saturday, May 15. For being our 10,000th visitor, Deb was given a $25 VISA gift card courtesy of TNT RV and Generator, and a DeMoulin Museum shirt, coffee mug, and key chain. Thanks Deb for coming to see us!

Saturday, during Greenville Museum Day, the DeMoulin Museum welcomed its 10,000th visitor to sign the official guestbook: Deb Glisson of Pocahontas. Deb stopped at the museum with her grandson, Camren. They’re pictured above with DeMoulin Museum Curator John Goldsmith.

For being our 10,000th visitor, Deb Glisson was asked to ring the museum’s old church bell to commemorate the occasion. Deb is helped by her grandson, Camren. The DeMoulin Museum is located in a former Episcopal church built in the late 1880s.

DeMoulin Museum Expecting 10,000th Visitor Soon

(May 11, 2021) - The DeMoulin Museum, which opened in March 2010, will soon welcome its 10,000th visitor, a major milestone in the museum’s history. That person will receive a museum t-shirt, coffee mug, and keychain, along with a $25 Visa gift card courtesy of TNT RV and Generator Services.
  According to John Goldsmith, museum curator, the milestone would have happened last year, but COVID-19 led to extended closures and the loss of several scheduled tour groups. “We’ve had a great start to 2021, including the return of tour groups,” explained Goldsmith. “We’re around 90 visitors away from the 10,000 mark, so it’s possible we could see that person this Saturday during Greenville’s Museum Day.”
  Goldsmith said 10,000 visitors is an incredible accomplishment for a museum that is open on weekends or by appointment. “We’re proud of our museum becoming a destination for travelers, as we’ve hosted visitors from coast to coast and several foreign countries.”
  In celebration of Museum Day on Saturday, May 15, the DeMoulin Museum will have a live goat petting zoo on the grounds from 10:30 a.m. to noon; Wy’s Place food truck on the parking lot from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; and a caricature artist doing free drawings from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. inside the museum.

Congratulations Grace Haynes on Your Remarkable Milestone!

(March 14, 2021) - The DeMoulin Museum hosted a reception Sunday, March 14, 2021 to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Grace Haynes’ first day at DeMoulin Bros. & Co. (March 3, 1961). A nice crowd of family, co-workers (past and present), and friends gathered to honor Grace. The factory’s Coat Trim Department is an amazing place indeed with Grace at the sewing machine.

Man in green shirt and Woman in blue shirt stand together holding red and yellow museum sign.

In honor of the 60th Anniversary of Grace Haynes’ first day at DeMoulin Bros. & Co., the DeMoulin Museum has named the north wing in her honor. DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith made the announcement today (Sunday, March 14) during a reception celebrating Grace’s career. (Oh, by the way... it wasn’t a retirement party.)

Woman with short gray hair and wire rimmed glasses holds red clay brick engraved with three lines of text

Grace Haynes poses with one of the two bricks that have been purchased in her honor for the display in front of the DeMoulin Museum. This brick was purchased by several of her co-workers. Grace is one of five people who have recorded 60 years or more at the factory. Her tenure currently ties her with former company president U.S. DeMoulin, who also had 60 years.

Museum Opening Again with Bond County Moved to Tier 2 Covid Precautions

(January 22, 2021) - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) January 22 announced Region 4 (Bond, Clinton, Madison, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair, Washington) is moving to Tier 2 effective today. Which means... we’re OPEN again! We’ll see you at the DeMoulin Museum Saturday, Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Demoulin Museum Preparing For 2021

(December 29, 2020) - What promised to be a big year for the DeMoulin Museum fell short of those expectations due to COVID-19. The museum was closed twice this year due to COVID-19 restrictions implemented by the State of Illinois, from March 16 to June 5 and again from November 20 until further notice. These closures led to the postponement of the DeMoulin Museum’s 10th anniversary celebration in March, the cancellation of several group tours, and the loss of two fundraisers. The museum finished the year with 200 visitors, around 800 less than the yearly average.
  Although it was a disjointed year, it didn’t come without a few highlights. The first of these was a surprise visit in early March by actor David Eigenberg and his son. The star of the television series Chicago Fire was on his way to St. Louis and decided to check out the museum based on an on-line review. Another memorable event was the unveiling in October of a new outdoor display of bricks honoring past and present employees of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. Over fifty bricks have been sold with orders continuing to come in.
  Organizers of the 10th anniversary celebration anticipate that event happening in late spring or early summer 2021. This will include the banquet and related activities. Those with tickets to the banquet are encouraged to hold on to them. Additionally, businesses and individuals that were sponsoring the celebration will continue to do so. An announcement will be made when a new date is established.
  Two other major milestones will be observed in 2021. The first is the 150th birthday of U.S. DeMoulin, one of the original brothers who founded the company. U.S. was born October 3, 1871. A special observance will be held to mark the occasion. DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith has announced that Goat Tales, a compilation of short stories on DeMoulin history, will be released in 2021. Goldsmith had previously published Three Frenchmen and a Goat: The DeMoulin Bros. Story in 2004. “This will not be a sequel to the first book, but a compilation of some of my favorite factory stories plus some tidbits I’ve learned over the past 16 years,” Goldsmith explained.
  Those with questions may call the DeMoulin Museum at (618) 664-4115 or email.

Museum Closed For Second Span in 2020 Due To Covid Precautions

(November 17, 2020) - Due to the Tier 3 mitigation COVID-19 plan announced by Governor Pritzker, the DeMoulin Museum will be closed until further notice. Once the restrictions have been lifted, the museum will be reopen for our normal Saturday hours.

Demoulin Museum Unveiling Brick Display

(September 16, 2020) - A new outdoor display at the DeMoulin Museum honoring employees of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. will be unveiled during a short ceremony Friday, October 2 at 4:00 p.m. Over 40 bricks have been pre-sold honoring presidents, board members, and employees of the factory that’s called Greenville its home since 1892.
  “As you would expect the DeMoulin brothers will have bricks,” said John Goldsmith, museum curator. “But what’s been fun is seeing brick orders come in for employees from yesteryear that I didn’t know. Couple that with bricks honoring current employees and the display tells quite a story about the company’s history.”
  Founded as the Ed DeMoulin Modern Woodmen of America Paraphernalia Company, the factory was Greenville’s first major industry. The venture began as a small affair in a side room of Mr. DeMoulin’s photo studio on the Greenville square. It quickly grew and by 1900 employed 100 people, most of whom were women crafting regalia for fraternal lodges and band uniforms. Goldsmith said whether an employee worked there for 50 years or just the summer, all are welcome to be honored with a brick.
  The display will eventually have around 400 bricks. Goldsmith explained that brick orders will continue to be taken until the display is full.
  Bricks, which feature three lines of text with a maximum of 18 letters per line, may be purchased for $100 each. Brochures about purchasing a brick may be picked up at the museum or downloaded from their website.
  The ceremony on October 2 will begin with a brief program followed by the unveiling and then cookies and punch served in the museum.
  The DeMoulin Museum is dedicated to the founders, employees, and unique products of DeMoulin Bros. and Co. Known today as the nation’s leading maker of marching band uniforms, the factory got its start in 1892 as a manufacturer of initiation devices and regalia for fraternal lodges. The museum is located at 205 S. Prairie St. in Greenville. For more information, call (618) 664-4115.

“We’ve Never Seen a Goat in Such Original Condition”: Ferris Wheel Coaster Goat glad to be back home in Greenville

(June 21, 2020) - We were fortunate to be the high bidder on a DeMoulin Ferris Wheel Coaster Goat that was sold in an on-line auction of the contents of the Jacksonville, IL Masonic Lodge. One of the members told us the goat had belonged to their GROTTO group. It had been in a storage closet for decades. The Ferris Wheel Coaster Goat was introduced by DeMoulin Bros. in 1922 as an updated and improved version of their extremely popular Ferris Wheel Goat. The most noticeable change is the addition of smaller wheels at the base. This goat is in spectacular condition. Note the “beard” and “tail”, features that are difficult to find with a DeMoulin goat. It’s all original. No restoration. A real gem!

Museum curator with the Ferris Wheel Coaster Goat outside the Masonic Lodge.

Museum curator John Goldsmith with the Ferris Wheel Coaster Goat outside the Jacksonville, IL Masonic Lodge.

Original wool, straps, horns, eyes, beard and tail!

Original wool. Original straps. Goat horns cast from steel at the factory. Original eyes and beard. Even a wagging tail!

Demoulin Museum Reopening

(May 28, 2020) - After being closed for over two months due to Illinois’ COVID-19 restrictions, the DeMoulin Museum is reopening Friday, June 5. The opening coincides with the return of the museum’s summer hours: Fridays 1 to 3 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sundays 2 to 4 p.m. To celebrate the reopening, free punch and cookies will be available on Saturday, June 6.
  The museum will follow state guidelines requiring six-foot social distancing, facial coverings when social distancing can’t be maintained, and a limit of ten visitors at a time. Group tours may still be scheduled, but the group must fall within the ten-person requirement. Hand sanitizer will be available to visitors.
  During the closure, the front of the museum was renovated and new artifacts were added. Visitors will see a wider selection of vintage DeMoulin catalogs, additional photos of employees, and a display case explaining the role the Modern Woodmen of America and William A. Northcott played in the factory’s founding. Also new is a panel highlighting DeMoulin Bros’ cap and gown era and a display highlighting a Wind Machine, found in February 2019 during the renovation of the former Greenville Masonic lodge.
  This is the tenth anniversary for the DeMoulin Museum. The celebration marking the occasion was to be held in March but was postponed due to the pandemic. An announcement will be made in the future about the rescheduled celebration.
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville. Admission is free but donations are accepted. For more information, call the museum at (618) 664-4115.

DeMoulin Museum Postponing Celebration

(March 13, 2020) - The DeMoulin Museum has postponed its 10th Anniversary celebration due to the health concerns created by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and influenza outbreak. This includes the March 19 reception for current employees, the March 20 banquet, and the March 21 cookout at the museum.
  After much discussion, the museum’s board reached this difficult decision based on current information and in anticipation of what may occur in the next week. There were also cancellations by several of those planning to participate in the celebration. The DeMoulin Museum wants to ensure that all those attending the festivities can do so safely with no concerns.
  All of the 10th Anniversary events will be rescheduled, and tickets purchased for the banquet will be honored on the new date, which will be announced later.
  Those with questions may call the DeMoulin Museum at (618) 664-4115 or email.

Banquet Planned for DeMoulin Museum’s Anniversary

(February 23, 2020) - A banquet celebrating the 10th anniversary of the DeMoulin Museum’s opening will be held Friday, March 20 at The Milk House in Greenville. The evening will include a chicken and ham dinner, music from the Ragged Blade Band of St. Louis, and a program featuring guest speakers and a few surprises. The event is open to the public.
  One of the special guests that night is Charles Schneider, an actor, writer, and magician who was involved in the 2010 reprint of DeMoulin catalog number 439, the last DeMoulin catalog that promoted the sale of lodge initiation devices. DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith said, “Charles visited Greenville twice in 2010, when he was doing research for the book and later when it was released. Local people still ask me about Charles because his fun personality left such a positive impact on everyone he met. He’s excited about returning to Greenville for the museum’s anniversary celebration.”
  The Ragged Blade Band has become a fixture at the museum having performed there twice. Their repertoire of ragtime and early 20th century music has made them a popular draw. “You could say they’ve become the museum’s official band,” Goldsmith explained. “They love their association with the museum and playing for their fans in Greenville.”
  Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the program to follow. Tickets are $15 per person, $25 per couple, and $7 for children 12 and under. Tickets may be purchased at the DeMoulin Museum or Watson’s Drug Store in Greenville. For more information, call (618) 664-4115 or email goatmuseum@gmail.com. Details will be coming on other celebration activities to be held that weekend.
  The DeMoulin Museum celebrates the history of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., a marching band uniform manufacturer founded in 1892. The company got its start as a maker of regalia and paraphernalia, including wacky initiation devices, for fraternal orders like the Modern Woodmen of America, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Improved Order of Redmen, and Knights of Pythias. Since its opening in 2010, the museum has gained national attention for its rare collection of early DeMoulin initiation devices including the Ferris Wheel Goat, Trick Chair, Lifting and Spanking Machine, and Trick Camera. The museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or by appointment.

10th Anniversary Banquet, music, guest speakers March 20
Museum Announces Attendance Contest

(January 12, 2020) - This year marks the tenth anniversary of the opening of the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville. First opened to the public on March 20, 2010, the museum tells the story of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., and its founders, employees, and unique products. Since its opening, the museum has been featured on television, in books and magazine articles, and attracted visitors from around the world.
  To kickoff the anniversary celebration, the DeMoulin Museum is having a “Guess the Attendance Contest”, sponsored by TNT RV and Generator Service of Greenville. Contestants have until 5pm on February 15 to submit their guesses on how many visitors will attend the museum in 2020. The person guessing closest without going over wins a $50 Visa gift card. In the event of a tie, a random drawing will be conducted of the tying guesses. The winner will be announced December 31. You must be 16 or older to enter and may only guess once. Employees of TNT RV and Generator Services and DeMoulin Museum volunteers and board members are not eligible. Entries may be emailed, mailed to DeMoulin Museum, 205 S. Prairie St., Greenville, IL 62246, or messaged to the DeMoulin Museum Facebook page. Please include your name, telephone number, and your guess.
  The museum attracted 930 visitors in 2019 including those from 24 states and one person from South Africa. John Goldsmith, museum curator, said almost a quarter of visitors last year came from outside of Illinois. The highest attendance total came in 2015, Greenville’s Bicentennial year, when 1,307 people signed the guest book.
  “We’re excited to partner with TNT RV and Generator Service on this contest,” Goldsmith noted. “This is a fun way to launch our tenth anniversary.” Goldsmith said a special anniversary logo will be unveiled in the near future. The celebration is scheduled for Saturday, March 21 and will include activities at the museum during the day and a banquet that night.
  For more information on the “Guess the Attendance Contest”, visit the museum’s website at www.demoulinmuseum.org or Facebook page.
  The DeMoulin Museum is open Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm. Expanded summer hours begin in June. Special tours may also be arranged by contacting the museum at (618) 664-4115.

Family Artifact Coming To DeMoulin Museum

(January 10, 2020) - For a company that’s been manufacturing band uniforms since 1897, it may not come as a surprise that music was an important part in the lives of its founders. DeMoulin Bros. & Co. of Greenville, Illinois was founded by Ed DeMoulin in 1892 as a maker of regalia and paraphernalia for the Modern Woodmen of America fraternal organization. Five years later, the youngest DeMoulin brother, Ulysses (U.S.), co-founded the Greenville Concert Band, which lives on today as the Greenville Municipal Band. At U.S.’s suggestion, the DeMoulin factory created a set of band uniforms for the group, thus launching an industry that has made the company world renowned.
  Ed, U.S. and their older brother Erastus were all members of this band, but their love of music can be traced back to their father, Elisha, a French immigrant who arrived in America in 1850. He later settled in Jamestown, Illinois and led the local band for that community and neighboring Sebastopol. U.S. DeMoulin later said his father had been a child prodigy who could play multiple instruments and compose music.
  The DeMoulin Museum will soon be welcoming Elisha DeMoulin’s E-flat cornet to the family display. The cornet has been in the DeMoulin Bros. & Co. archives for decades. It was recently identified by John Goldsmith, museum curator.
  Goldsmith said, “I knew the factory had some vintage instruments in its collection, which I had suspected belonged to the DeMoulin brothers. However, after rereading U.S. DeMoulin’s 1954 autobiography, I realized this old, well-worn instrument was their father’s. It has quite a story to tell.”
  According to Goldsmith, the cornet was given to Elisha by his father, prior to their departure for America in 1850. U.S. wrote that his father used the instrument to lead the bands in Jamestown and Sebastopol. When the Civil War broke out, the cornet was loaned to an F. Leonhard of Trenton, who played it while a member of the Jamestown Military Band. Goldsmith said a metal tag with Leonhard’s name and the year 1869 can be found on the cornet. In his autobiography, U.S. noted, “It is claimed that the patch-covered hole it now bears was caused by a bullet from a rebel’s gun.” Goldsmith explained that this detail also helped in identifying the instrument as that owned by Elisha DeMoulin.
  “At some point the cornet was given back to Elisha DeMoulin and later inherited by his son, U.S. It’s a great piece of family and factory history that intersects with Clinton County lore,” Goldsmith observed.
  “We’re thrilled that the factory is putting it on loan to the museum. When I shared the story with Don Adamski, DeMoulin president, he was amazed to learn the cornet’s origin. We were both thankful that it had survived all of these years in the factory’s archives.”
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie St. in Greenville, is open Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm. Special tours may also be arranged by contacting the museum at (618) 664-4115. This year marks the museum’s tenth anniversary.

Cornet once owned by Elisha DeMoulin

This 19th century E-flat cornet intersects the history of the DeMoulin factory and family, Clinton County, and the Civil War. It’s a unique piece with quite a story behind it.

Portrait of Elisha DeMoulin, father of the founders of DeMoulin Bros.

Elisha DeMoulin, in photograph above, was given the cornet by his father, prior to their departure for America in 1850.

2020 Fundraisers Announced

(January 4, 2020) - The DeMoulin Museum announces our list of 2020 Fundraisers! More details on each event will be added.. This is our 10th anniversary! We’re planning a year-long celebration!

Museum Fundraisers in 2020
DeMoulin Museum Closed for Holidays

(December 16, 2019) - The DeMoulin Museum is closed for the holiday season and will re-open on Saturday, January 4, 2020.
  However, special tours can be scheduled before the end of the year by calling the museum at (618) 664-4115 and leaving a message.
  The DeMoulin Museum is located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville.

Country Singer Returning To Museum

(December 1, 2019) - Jamie Nattier, a traditional country singer, is coming back to the DeMoulin Museum Sunday, December 8 for a free concert — and he’s bringing his new CD along. Nattier performed to a packed crowd at the museum in June. His new CD, The Color of Home, recently came out and Nattier asked the museum if it would host a CD release party.
  “We were thrilled when Jamie contacted us about having him back for another concert,” said John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator. “His performance earlier this year attracted one of the largest crowds we’ve ever had for an event.”
  Raised on his family’s farm in Patoka, Illinois, Jamie began writing songs when he was fifteen. Ten of the twelve songs on his new CD are written or co-written by Nattier.
  Nattier says the album was a long time in the making. “I feel like I needed that time though to finally find my sound. It’s my brand of traditional country music. This is also the most honest I have ever been on an album thus far. I really feel like you will get a sense of who I am after hearing these songs.”
  During his concert, Jamie will perform a mixture of songs from his album, country classics, and Christmas favorites.
  Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 2:00 p.m. Because seating is limited to the first 60, concert-goers are encouraged to arrive early. Free refreshments will be available.
  For more information, call the DeMoulin Museum at (618) 664-4115.

Jamie Nattier returns by popular demand December 8
Full Night of Activities at DeMoulin Museum

(November 23, 2019) - The DeMoulin Museum will be participating in Greenville’s annual Come Home for Christmas celebration on Saturday, November 30 with a focus on fun for children. In keeping with the event’s Frozen theme, the museum is welcoming Anna, Elsa, and Olaf, characters from the popular movie, from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Children may have their picture taken with the trio, free of charge. Parents are asked to bring their own cameras.
  Children will also have the opportunity to decorate their own Christmas cookies from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. All materials will be provided for free. DeMoulin Museum volunteers will assist the children. There will be a limit of one cookie per child.
  Free refreshments will be served throughout the evening. The museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, will be open that night from 6 to 8 p.m. Along with the kids’ activities, the public is welcome to tour the museum.
  For more information, call the DeMoulin Museum at (618) 664-4115.

Come Home For Christmas Activities at the museum November 30th
DeMoulin Museum Curator to be Presenter at State Conference

(November 12, 2019) - The curator of the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville will be one of the speakers at this year’s Illinois Association of Museums (IAM) conference. John Goldsmith will be doing a presentation on Tuesday, November 19 entitled “Creating Your Own Publicity”. Goldsmith founded the DeMoulin Museum in March 2010 and has served as its volunteer curator.
  The theme of this year’s IAM conference is “Museums at the Crossroads”. The IAM notes, “A crossroads approaches, and museums must find the best road forward. While all of this change can be quite overwhelming, it is further complicated by the constant speed bumps like shrinking budgets, staffing and volunteer shortages, changing fundraising and grant climates, and increased competition for visitor attention and time.”
  Goldsmith brings a unique perspective as his road has included stops in the media, not-for-profits, and museums. He spent over 20 years in the radio industry before working for the National Road Association of Illinois, a group that promoted tourism, historical preservation, and business development along the U.S. Route 40 corridor in Illinois. During this time he was actively involved in the creation of the National Road Interpretive Center in Vandalia and designed many of its displays. This was followed by a five-year stint as the tourism and chamber of commerce director for Greenville.
  “One of my firm beliefs is that you must create and manage your own publicity,” said Goldsmith. “Having been on both the media and museum side of the equation, I’ve compiled an approach to marketing the DeMoulin Museum that might be beneficial to other institutions. I look forward to helping them develop a marketing plan that can boost their visibility on a shoestring budget.”

New Artifact at DeMoulin Museum Tells World War II Story
the Daddy Doll, a one of a kind WWII DeMoulin Bros factory creation

(October 24, 2019) - A one-of-a-kind artifact was recently donated to the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville. A doll from the 1940s with a unique connection between DeMoulin Bros. and World War II is now featured at the museum. In December 2017, the museum was contacted by the heirs of Susan McCracken White, an Alabama resident, concerning a doll she owned while growing up in Greenville. The doll’s outfit was made by DeMoulin.
  According to her son, David White, “My mother received this doll as a child. Its uniform was made by DeMoulin Bros. and modeled after the uniform her father was wearing during World War II. The doll has long been referred to as the ‘daddy doll’ in our family. It was her wish to see that this doll was donated to the DeMoulin Museum after her death.”
  Susan’s father was William L. McCracken, a Greenville native, who ran his own dental practice in Greenville until joining the US Army Dental Corps from 1943 to 1946. Dr. McCracken was Chief of Dental Service for the 55th Field Hospital, serving with this unit at Hawaii and Okinawa. He was discharged as a captain and later move to Alabama where he had a successful career in dentistry.
  DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith is thrilled to showcase the doll. Goldsmith said, “Although the company was manufacturing military uniforms for the war effort, the uniform worn by this doll is a one of a kind DeMoulin creation made specifically for Susan. We may never know which DeMoulin employees were involved in this special project, but their handiwork will be permanently displayed, thanks to Susan McCracken White.”
  White passed away August 26, 2017. The “daddy doll” was shipped to the museum in February of this year. Johnson’s Signs and Designs of Greenville created a special case for the doll, which is now permanently on display at the DeMoulin Museum.
  During the month of November, in conjunction with Veterans Day, the museum will spotlight military uniforms made by DeMoulin Bros.

HSHS Holy Family Hospital Sponsoring Silent Movie Series at Museum
Silent Movie Sundays Series

(August 29, 2019) - HSHS Holy Family Hospital Silent Sundays, a silent movie series, is coming to the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville. Running on three consecutive Sundays, each program will spotlight a different silent film era star. A guest host will share some stories about the featured artist prior to the showing of each film.
  The schedule is:
  Sunday, September 8 featuring Buster Keaton, hosted by John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator.
  Sunday, September 15 featuring Harold Lloyd, hosted by Tom Varner, Hard Road Theatre Productions executive producer.
  Sunday, September 22 featuring Laurel and Hardy, hosted by John Coleman, Bond County Historical Society treasurer.
  “This is the latest in the cultural offerings we’ve brought to the museum,” Goldsmith explained. “We’re excited to partner with HSHS Holy Family Hospital, our corporate sponsor of the film series. We feel this is another opportunity to offer unique entertainment you don’t commonly find.” Goldsmith added that the silent film stars selected are among the legends of the era. “The slapstick humor of the silent movies is similar to the laughs we get from the DeMoulin-made lodge initiation devices in our collection,” he said.
  Doors will open at 3:30 p.m. with the one-hour program to begin at 4:00 p.m. Complimentary popcorn and drinks will be available. Limited seating is available. Tickets are available for a donation of $2.00 each and may be obtained at Watson’s Drug Store in Greenville or by emailing the DeMoulin Museum.

Country Singer Performing at DeMoulin Museum
Country singer Jamie Nattier og Patoka, Illinois

(June 15, 2019) - The DeMoulin Museum is hosting a free concert Saturday, June 29 at 6 p.m. by Jamie Nattier, a traditional country singer.
  Raised on his family’s farm in Patoka, Illinois, Jamie is the son of a son of a farmer and a teacher. Growing up Jamie was surrounded by horses, cows, grain, and oil fields. A strong family foundation inspired him with an exceptional work ethic and strong academic values. He graduated from Patoka High School in 2008 and later earned an Associate’s Degree from nearby Kaskaskia College.
  His earliest performances were for 4-H and church events. Soon however, he began performing for local opry shows. When area bands realized his potential, they invited this young man to play along with them even though he was many years younger than most.
  Jamie wrote his first song when he was fifteen. To hone his talents, he started attending several workshops, began co-writing, recording his songs, and making CDs. He has played and hosted numerous open mic nights. Jamie has performed at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield and Du Quoin. Jamie has also performed in Pigeon Forge, TN, and on many stages in Nashville such as The Bluebird Cafe and Tootsies as well as getting to sing at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas.
  Jamie assists his dad on the family farm and is also a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service. Jamie has been working on a new CD which he hopes to have released this fall. Jamie resides in rural Kell with his wife, Cassie, his two beagles, and a basset hound.
  John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator, says concert-goers will enjoy the show. “I first met Jaime years ago when I emceed the Country Showdown competition and he was a contestant. His talent as a singer and songwriter were evident back then. Anyone who appreciates real country music will love the concert.”
  This is the latest in a series of free concerts held at the DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie St. in Greenville. You are encouraged to bring your lawn chair. Free popcorn and drinks will be available. The museum will also be open for tours.

Museum Taking Orders For Bricks: Order Yours For Mothers Day!
first order of 34 bricks have arrived

(May 3, 2019) - The DeMoulin Museum is now taking orders for a second round of brick pavers recognizing current and former employees of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. Bricks are 4” x 8” and feature up to three lines of text. Each brick is $100 with proceeds to benefit repairs and upkeep of the museum. The bricks will be installed in a prominent space in front of the DeMoulin Museum.
  Brick sales began last June and an initial order of 37 was placed at the end of 2018. Wet conditions this spring have delayed their installation. The goal is to get another order placed by the end of May.
  “Our first group of bricks honored company founder Ed DeMoulin, all of the subsequent factory presidents, and an array of employees,” explained museum curator John Goldsmith. “There have been a few surprises including some employees from the 1930s that I wasn’t familiar with.”
  Goldsmith said, “A number of bricks have been purchased as gifts for loved ones. Mother’s Day is an ideal time for us to sell our next round.”
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, pays tribute to the founders, employees, and unique products of the factory. Since its founding in 1892, the company has employed thousands of people whose tenures range from a summer job to over 50 years.
  For more information about the DeMoulin brick pavers, call (618) 664-4115 or download the form. The DeMoulin Museum is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DeMoulin Museum Observing Odd Fellows’ Bicentennial
Independent Order of Odd Fellows Bicentennial logo

(April 9, 2019) - The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is celebrating its 200th anniversary this month and the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville is hosting a special program to observe the occasion. Founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1819, the Odd Fellows now has 600,000 members worldwide. Known for their three link of chain logo, which represents friendship, love, and truth, the Odd Fellows were one of the fraternal customers of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. during the factory’s early years.
  A special program, “Odd Fellows: 200 Years of Riding the Goat”, will be presented by Ainslie Heilich on Sunday, April 28 at 2 p.m. at the DeMoulin Museum. Heilich will explain who the Odd Fellows are, what they do, and how they factor into DeMoulin history. Odd Fellows artifacts, made by DeMoulin Bros. & Co., will be showcased. Free refreshments will be served following the program.
  Heilich is an Odd Fellow and founding member and Past Grand of Tuscola #316. He is also a member of Owl Creek Rebekah #91, Champaign Encampment #68, and Zonar Canton #18, all of Fisher, IL. He is also on the Grand Lodge of IL IOOF Web Committee and the Sovereign Grand Lodge Communications Committee and built/maintains their websites and Facebook pages and is a founder of the Heart in Hand blog. Ainslie is a tattoo artist and co-owns Vintage Karma in Tuscola, IL. When he is not tattooing or Odd Fellowing, he oversees the official website and Facebook page for guitarist G.E. Smith.
  John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator, said this will be a special day for the museum. “We’re thrilled to have Ainslie share the Odd Fellows story with us. We often get visitors asking about this particular fraternal order, which DeMoulin made many things for. This also gives us the opportunity to display Odd Fellows things from our collection that aren’t normally seen.”

DeMoulin Museum Reflects On Big Year

(January 2, 2019) - The first year in its new home proved to be a busy one for the DeMoulin Museum. Since reopening in the former Central Christian Church in late February, the museum attracted 1,255 visitors from 25 states and five foreign countries. John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum Curator, said, “Several church groups and travel clubs from the St. Louis area made the trip to Greenville. One of the most interesting was the Fords Unlimited Car Club.” The museum also hosted its first Boy Scout Night in August. Local scouts were treated to a special program then camped out overnight on the museum grounds. Goldsmith said they hope to offer more Scout Nights in 2019.
  There were a number of highlights in 2018 including:

  • The unveiling of the Atlanta Olympic Band uniform display in June, which was attended by three members of the band and two chaperones.
  • A visit by Congressman John Shimkus in July
  • Curator John Goldsmith presenting a program on DeMoulin initiation devices in Kinsley, KS in September for the Edwards County Historical Society
  • Hosting the Masonic Library Museum Association’s annual meeting in October
  • A live concert on the museum grounds by the Ragged Blade Band, a ragtime group from St. Louis, in September
  • Curator Goldsmith’s participation in an Illinois Humanities Council podcast recorded in Atlanta, Illinois in November to celebrate the Illinois Bicentennial

  Plans for 2019 include adding some new displays and offering more free concerts on the museum grounds. The DeMoulin Museum is located at 205 S. Prairie St. in Greenville, IL. Winter hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Admission is by donation. Group tours are now being booked for the New Year. Tours can be scheduled for any day by calling the museum at (618) 664-4115 or emailing.

DeMoulin Museum Hosting Come Home For Christmas Activities
Come Home For Christmas featuring the Grinch Who Stole Christmas
Cookie Walk booth at Come Home for Christmas Market
Painting Donated to DeMoulin Museum

(September 12, 2018) - The artwork of a former DeMoulin Bros. employee has been donated to the DeMoulin Museum. Naomi Babbitt was an artist at the factory for fifty years whose talent was featured in band uniform catalogs. She also created sketches that DeMoulin salesmen used when meeting with customers. But, Babbitt’s talent was not limited to her job. She was one of the charter members of a local group known as the Prairie Artists. In the 1970s, the Prairie Artists’ works were showcased during festivals held on the courthouse grounds. Most of the paintings created by these artists featured homes, buildings, barns and landscapes around Bond County.
  In April 1974, Babbitt painted an image of the DeMoulin factory and its pond that she titled “Reflections In Early Morning”. Since then the painting has hung at First Bank on the Greenville square. After the bank’s sale to Peoples State Bank, the new owners donated the painting to the DeMoulin Museum.
  Jennifer Richards, Branch Manager at Peoples State Bank in Greenville, said, “It is our mission at Peoples State Bank to provide growth and stability to our community. We consider it a privilege to serve Greenville and wish to give back to our community, as much as possible.”
  DeMoulin Museum Curator John Goldsmith thanked the bank for its generosity. “This gift is greatly appreciated. Naomi was a gifted artist and a legend in DeMoulin history. We’re excited to be able to display her painting of the factory, which also allows us the chance to tell her story, too.”
  Babbitt passed away in 1984 but left behind an artistic legacy that will now be celebrated at the DeMoulin Museum.

Painting Donated to DeMoulin Museum

Photo ident: (l to r) Tara Reeves, Jennifer Richards, and Shane Danosky of Peoples State Bank donate Naomi Babbitt’s 1974 painting of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. to DeMoulin Museum representatives Gina Goldsmith, John Goldsmith, and Becky Clausen.

Ragtime Band Performing at DeMoulin Museum
The Ragged Blade Band Free Concert

(September 8, 2018) - The Ragged Blade Band, a St. Louis-based ensemble specializing in early 20th century music, will perform a free concert Saturday, Sept. 22 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville. The group features classics from the world of ragtime and the birth of blues and jazz. Band member Jerry Rabushka says concert-goers will hear tunes likes “Ballin’ the Jack” and “Alexander’s Ragtime Band”, along with some rarely performed songs of the era. Rabushka added, “Our group plays in the St. Louis area and throughout the Midwest at restaurants, wineries, and festivals. The DeMoulin Museum looks like a cool place and we’re looking forward to playing there.”
  The Ragged Blade Band has been featured at the Mosaics Fine Art Festival in St. Charles, Mo., the Big River Steampunk Festival in Hannibal, Mo., and at a Kansas City Royals baseball game.
  Because the concert will be held on the grounds of the museum, those attending are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Popcorn and drinks will be available. DeMoulin Museum Curator John Goldsmith says this will be the first in a series of free entertainment hosted on their green space. According to Goldsmith, “Since moving to our new location, we’ve been looking forward to holding outdoor concerts. We think The Ragged Blade Band performance is the perfect way to launch our concert series. Music is such a big part of DeMoulin Bros.’ history, it’s natural that we’d work this into what we offer.”
  The museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, will also be open from 5 to 7:30 p.m. that evening. For more information, call (618) 664-4115.

Brick Paver Program to Honor DeMoulin Employees

Download the Brick Program Brochure NOW

(June 13, 2018) - The DeMoulin Museum has announced plans to recognize current and former employees of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. with brick pavers. Since its founding in 1892, the DeMoulin factory has employed thousands of men and women, many of whom worked for the company for decades. When he began the business, Ed DeMoulin hired four seamstresses who brought their own sewing machines from home. Today, DeMoulin employs around 150 people who utilize state of the art equipment.
  The DeMoulin Museum, located at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville, pays tribute to the founders, employees, and unique products of the factory.
  “The workers are a big part of the stories we tell,” explained John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum Curator. “They were and still are true artisans who take great pride in their work. A company can’t exist for 126 years without folks like that. Our brick paver program is an opportunity to permanently acknowledge their efforts.”
  Bricks are 4” x 8” and feature up to three lines of text. Each brick is $100 with proceeds to benefit repairs and upkeep of the museum. The bricks will be installed in a prominent space in front of the DeMoulin Museum.

  The bricks may be purchased in honor or memory of anyone who worked for the factory, according to Goldsmith. “Whether you worked there for a summer or for fifty years, you are part of DeMoulin history. It’s a special group of people we want to celebrate.”
  For more information about the DeMoulin brick pavers, call (618) 664-4115 or visit www.demoulinmuseum.org and download the form.

Brick Paver Program to Honor DeMoulin Employees
DeMoulin Museum Welcomes Members of Atlanta Olympic Band to Celebrate Unveiling of AOB Uniform Display

(June 5, 2018) - The DeMoulin Museum experienced another magical day on Saturday, June 2 as the Atlanta Olympic Band uniform display was unveiled. DeMoulin Bros. & Co. manufactured the uniforms for the band, which promoted the Atlanta Olympics from 1992 to 1996. We were fortunate to be joined for this special program by three members of the band: Jill Womack Sewell of Maryland; Lynne Snyder of Indiana; and Christy Casher of Illinois. Also joining us were Dennis and Claudia Womack of Georgia, who served as chaperones from 1993 to 1996. DeMoulin employee Grace Haynes and DeMoulin retiree Frances Ulmer were also special guests.

Jill Sewell, Lynne Snyder, and Christy Casher share memories of their years in the Atlanta Olympic Band. (photo by Cera Douglas)
AOB band members Christy Casher, Lynne Snyder and Jill Sewell with DeMoulin employees Grace Haynes and Frances Ulmer, and DeMoulin Museum Curator John Goldsmith. (photo by Cera Douglas)
Olympic Band Highlighted in New Display
Museum to unveil Atlanta Olympic Band Uniforms Display

(May 14, 2018) - During its 126 year history, DeMoulin Bros. & Co. of Greenville, Illinois has manufactured products for fraternal lodges, circuses, celebrities, and marching bands around the world. The DeMoulin Museum, which showcases the company’s diverse history, will soon add a permanent display telling another remarkable chapter. The Atlanta Olympic Band (AOB) uniforms, one of the factory’s most prestigious projects, will be spotlighted in the display to be unveiled during a ceremony Saturday, June 2.
  Created in 1992 to promote the upcoming Olympics in Atlanta, the band was comprised of band students across Georgia, who auditioned for the AOB. Members had to be at least 16 years of age, a Georgia resident or full-time student in a Georgia college/university, and active in their high school or college’s music program. Over the four years of its existence, around 600 kids performed in the AOB with only 25 of those participating from start to finish.
  The band performed at President Clinton’s first inaugural, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, half-time of an Atlanta Falcons game, and several other functions prior to the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1996 Olympics.

  For DeMoulin Bros., the band uniforms were manufactured during its 100th anniversary year. One of the uniforms was displayed that summer during an open house held to celebrate the centennial. In an interview conducted in July 1992, Dick DeMoulin, then company president, described the uniforms as “very colorful and very bright” with sleeve caps “to give a bigger stronger image on television.” The uniforms were highlighted by a white, gold, and green sash and the five-color Olympic emblem on the breast.
  Since opening in 2010, the DeMoulin Museum has hoped to create a display showcasing the Atlanta Olympic Band uniforms. Last year, DeMoulin Museum Curator John Goldsmith contacted Jill (Womack) Sewell, a member of the AOB, and the band’s historian/archivist. Sewell has been working with Goldsmith on securing uniforms, photos, and other artifacts related to the band. “Jill’s love for the Atlanta Olympic Band is infectious,” Goldsmith explained. “She has helped us create what will become a signature display for the DeMoulin Museum.”
  The public is welcome to the unveiling of the display on Saturday, June 2. Members of the AOB will be on hand at 10:30 a.m. for a question/answer session with the audience, followed by the unveiling at 11:00 a.m., then a reception with refreshments. Admission is free. The DeMoulin Museum is located at 205 S. Prairie St. in Greenville, Illinois.

Museum featured in Illinois Farm Bureau’s Illinois Partners Magazine, Spring 2018
Museum featured in Illinois Partners magazine, Spring 2018

(March 1, 2018) - Illinois Partners magazine featured the DeMoulin Museum in their spring issue, which goes out to 330,000 members of the Illinois Farm Bureau. You can find the story online here: https://www.ilfbpartners.com/family/quirky-fun-demoulin-museum/

DeMoulin Museum Opening In New Home

Museum Opening In New Home February 24, 2018 at 10am (February 19, 2018) - The DeMoulin Museum is welcoming visitors this weekend for the first time at its new home. Last November the Museum purchased the former Central Christian Church building at 205 S. Prairie Street in Greenville. Since then, renovations have been made to the church, constructed in 1882, while maintaining the structure’s historical integrity. The sanctuary’s stained glass windows, wood trim, and pews remain while the baptismal was donated to the Columbus Baptist Church of rural Keyesport.
  The DeMoulin Museum’s move was dictated by a lack of space for artifacts and a growing number of large bus tour groups visiting. Since its opening on March 20, 2010, the DeMoulin Museum has welcomed over 7,000 visitors from over 40 states and several foreign countries. The Museum tells the story of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., founded in Greenville in 1892 as a manufacturer of fraternal lodge regalia, paraphernalia and initiation devices. The factory shifted its focus to marching band uniforms and continues to be an industry leader today.
  The quirky lodge initiation devices — with names like the lifting and spanking machine, surprise chair, and Ferris wheel goat — are the Museum’s drawing card. In September 2017, the DeMoulin Museum was named by gobankingrates.com as one of “The 16 Weirdest Museums in the World.” The travel blog One Weird Globe has described it as a “must see destination.” Roadside America, an authority on quirky destinations, in its review wrote, “Although small and modest, the DeMoulin Museum is one that we’ll remember long after larger, slicker attractions are forgotten.”
  John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum Curator, commented, “Our volunteers have been working hard the last couple months getting our new home ready. We couldn’t have asked for a better location than this historic building. We’re all excited about the new opportunities the additional space will provide us.”
  The Museum will be open Saturday, February 24 from 10 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 25 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The Greenville Chamber of Commerce will conduct a ribbon cutting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday. A brief program will follow. DeMoulin retirees, current and former employees are invited for a reunion on Sunday which will include a group photo at 2:30 p.m. Free refreshments will be served both days.

DeMoulin Museum Temporarily Closed Between Oct 28, 2017 and Feb 22, 2018
DeMoulin Museum will be closed temporarily during our move, October 2017 - February 2018

(October 23, 2017) - Beginning Saturday, Oct. 28 we will be moving to our new location in the former Central Christian Church, at the corner of Prairie and South streets. There is work to be done before the museum reopens. New displays will be created and space for them needs to be prepared, along with some electrical upgrades and other remodeling. The integrity and history of the building is important and will remain intact. We are tentatively planning on a grand opening weekend February 23-25, 2018.

DeMoulin Museum Receives Donation from FNB

(September 21, 2017) - The DeMoulin Museum’s fundraising campaign received a major boost Wednesday, September 20th as The First National Bank donated $5,000. A brief check presentation was held at the museum. Since early August, the DeMoulin Museum has been raising money for the purchase and renovation of the former Central Christian Church building. The museum has outgrown its current building due to the number of large tour groups coming to visit and the artifacts being added to the collection.
  Mike Radliff, First National Bank President/CEO, commented, “We are proud to be a supporter of the DeMoulin Museum as it moves forward to this new chapter. The museum continues to attract visitors to Greenville from outside the region and the new building will benefit that mission.”
  Dusty Bauer, Branch Manager for FNB’s Greenville facility, added, “The First National Bank is always looking for ways to benefit our community and the DeMoulin Museum is a big part of our local tourism.”
  Members of the DeMoulin Museum Board of Directors and volunteers participated in the check presentation. Also attending was Dee McQuiston, great granddaughter of Edmond DeMoulin, founder of the factory the museum celebrates.

DeMoulin Museum volunteers participated in the check presentation
Members of the DeMoulin Museum Board of Directors participated in the check presentation
DeMoulin Museum Featured in Unique List

GoBankingRates Your Cost to See the 16 Weirdest Museum Attractions website screenshot. (September 17, 2017) - When your museum spotlights artifacts like the Lifting and Spanking Machine and the Ferris Wheel Goat, you should probably expect to attract some attention. Recently, the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville, Illinois was featured in an article about the “16 Weirdest Museum Attractions” on the website gobankingrates.com. The article proclaims the DeMoulin Museum as “one of the best free places you can visit in America”. The museums highlighted are in the United States, Germany and Japan.
  Museum Curator John Goldsmith said, “We had been contacted by gobankingrates requesting a photo for a feature they were doing. We had no idea what the article was about or what they were going to say. To be ranked among the museums on their list is not only an honor but also a great opportunity to attract more visitors to our community.”
  Goldsmith noted that many of the museums making the list, like the International Spy Museum in Washington, DC and the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia, are often featured on the television show Mysteries at the Museum.
  Over the last two years, national exposure for the DeMoulin Museum has increased, thanks in large part to the website Roadside America. Since posting its review of the museum, in which it was rated “major fun”, a significant increase in out of state visitors has been seen. “Roadside America opened a lot of doors for us,” Goldsmith said.
  The DeMoulin Museum is dedicated to the founders, employees and unique products of DeMoulin Bros. & Co. The factory was founded in 1892 as a manufacturer of regalia and paraphernalia for fraternal lodges. The company’s niche was fraternal initiation devices. DeMoulin is still in busy today as the nation’s leading maker of marching band uniforms.

DeMoulin Museum Pursuing New Home
GoFundMe Campaign

(July 31, 2017) - Since its opening on March 20, 2010, the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville, Illinois has welcomed over 7,000 visitors from over 40 states and several foreign countries. With its success has come growing pains. Following a year-long search, the DeMoulin Museum Board of Directors recently voted to pursue a new home.
  According to John Goldsmith, Museum Curator, the Board has issued a letter of intent to buy the Central Christian Church, located at the corner of Prairie and South Streets in Greenville. The church, built in 1882, was originally home to the Grace Episcopal Church. When the congregation disbanded in 1952, the building sat vacant until it was purchased in March 1963 by the Central Christian Church. They moved the church from Third Street to its present location. The Central Christian Church has not held services since the beginning of this year.
Central Christian Church building located at the corner of Prairie and South Streets in Greenville.   DeMoulin Museum Board Chairman Don Adamski explained the reason why the museum is relocating. “With the continued success the museum has experienced as well as our growing collection of artifacts we’ve been seeking a larger location. This opportunity is ideal for the museum so the board decided to pursue it. I look forward to our continued growth in the new location as it will also attract more and more visitors to Greenville.”
  Goldsmith said the museum would utilize the sanctuary and addition. “This building opens opportunities for us to create new displays, enhance existing ones, and host larger tour groups and events.”
  Adamski said the challenge is raising funds for the purchase and renovation of the building. “I believe the generosity of the community will help us succeed in that effort.”
  Because of the museum’s popularity across the country, hopes are high that outside donors will also become involved. A series of traditional fundraising activities will be announced in the weeks to come. The museum needs to raise $35,000 to cover the purchase and renovation of the property. Additional funds collected will be invested in upgrading and enhancing displays. The goal is to have the money needed in place by the end of the year.
  “We are excited to have the opportunity to be the caretakers of this wonderful old church,” Goldsmith noted. “Our intention is to tell the DeMoulin story while maintaining the charm of the building.”

Tyler Dale from History Channel’s “American Restoration”

(June 18, 2017) - In 2014, David Copperfield had two of his DeMoulin initiation devices restored by the guys on History Channel’s “American Restoration.” The pieces were the Ferris Wheel Goat and the Knife Throwing Board. Tyler Dale from “American Restoration” was in Greenville for the annual Greenville Graffiti Car Show and visited the DeMoulin Museum over the weekend and checked out our Knife Throwing Board and made a new friend of Wink-a-dink. It was truly a thrill having Tyler visit.

Had fun Saturday evening giving Tyler Dale of American Restoration fame a private tour of the DeMoulin Museum including our Knife Throwing Board.
During his visit, we gave Tyler a special tour of the DeMoulin Museum. Tyler poses with his new friend Wink-a-dink.
DeMoulin Museum Hosting Family Reunion

DeMoulin Museum Hosting Family Reunion Poster (Tuesday, June 13, 2017) - The DeMoulin Museum in Greenville, Illinois is hosting a DeMoulin family reunion on Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2. A number of activities are planned. The reunion is open to all descendants and relatives of Elisha and Marie DeMoulin, whose children were Sephora, Evangeline, Clara, Erastus, Ulysses and Ed. The three sons were the founders of the DeMoulin Bros. & Co. factory, which today is the nation’s leading maker of marching band uniforms.
  On Saturday, July 1 family members will meet at 10:30 a.m. for a tour and program at the DeMoulin Museum, 110 W. Main in Greenville. The group will have lunch together then visit Montrose and Mt. Auburn cemeteries to view family burial sites. There will also be a driving tour of DeMoulin homes and former locations of the DeMoulin Bros. factory.
  Activities on Sunday, July 2 begin with breakfast followed by a tour of the Jamestown Cemetery and Sebastapol, where the DeMoulin brothers lived prior to moving to Greenville. The reunion will conclude with a tour of the potential future home of the DeMoulin Museum.
  John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator, said the reunion is being held in celebration of the DeMoulin factory’s 125th anniversary. The event also falls on the same weekend as Bond County’s Bicentennial party. “Since we opened seven years ago, the museum has been visited by many DeMoulin descendants,” Goldsmith explained. “This is our chance to bring together those who’ve never met.”
  For more information on the DeMoulin family reunion, contact the DeMoulin Museum at (618) 664-4115 or email. Those planning on attending are asked to contact the museum to RSVP. You are also encouraged to bring family photos and stories to share.
View the DeMoulin Family Reunion event on Facebook!

DeMoulin Museum Announces June Events

DeMoulin Bros. & Co. 125th anniversary celebration Logo (Wednesday, May 31, 2017) - June will be a busy month at the DeMoulin Museum. Coinciding with the summer travel season, the museum’s expanded hours are underway. Visitors can stop by Fridays from 1 to 3 pm, Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm, and Sundays from 2 to 4 pm through August 27. The museum was recently ranked number four on a list of “25 Strange Museums in the USA” by the website worldatlas.com.
  The DeMoulin Museum will have extended hours Friday, June 23 in conjunction with DeMoulin Bros. & Co.’s 125th anniversary celebration. While the factory will be open for tours and refreshments that day, the museum will be open from 1 to 5 pm. You are encouraged to visit the factory first then stop by the DeMoulin Museum to learn more about the company’s fascinating history.
  This year also marks the 120th anniversary of DeMoulin manufacturing its first set of band uniforms. Made in May 1897 for the Greenville Concert Band, these uniforms paved the way for the factory’s future. To honor this important moment in company history, the museum will be open Thursday, June 29 from 6 to 8:30 pm. The Greenville Municipal Band will perform at 7 that night on the courthouse grounds. DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith will speak at the concert about the band’s connection to DeMoulin Bros. & Co. Complimentary punch and cookies will be served at the museum prior to and after the concert.
  Plans are underway for a DeMoulin family reunion July 1 and 2. Details will be released soon.

DeMoulin Museum Receives Monetary Donation

(Tuesday, January 31, 2017) - The DeMoulin Museum has received a $500 donation from anonymous donors through the Bond County Community Foundation. The check was presented Tuesday afternoon during a brief ceremony at the museum. John Goldsmith, museum curator, thanked the donors, “We greatly appreciate their support. It’s good to know that there are people out there who believe in the value of our mission.”
  Mayor Alan Gaffner, who serves as the chairman of the Bond County Community Foundation board, complimented the museum’s board and volunteers for preserving the history of DeMoulin Bros. & Co., which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. Gaffner also congratulated the museum on becoming a popular attraction for out-of-town visitors.
  Goldsmith noted that since opening in March 2010, the DeMoulin Museum has drawn 6,442 visitors. According to Goldsmith, of the museum’s 861 visitors last year, at least 75% of them came from outside of Bond County. He said over 20 tour groups visited the museum in 2016.
  According to Goldsmith the growing number of tour groups and the steady acquisition of artifacts have led to a lack of space. “For the last several months, we’ve been considering a variety of options from renovating our current building to searching for a larger location. Whatever route is decided, today’s donation is a springboard towards a fundraising campaign that we hope will assure the museum will remain open to be enjoyed by those of all ages.”
  The DeMoulin Museum is a not-for-profit organization under the umbrella of the Bond County Community Foundation. For more information about becoming a DeMoulin Museum donor, call or email - find contact info on the Contact Us page.

BCCF board members and Museum board members at check presentation ceremony January 31, 2017

IN THE PHOTO - Left to Right: Jill Franks, BCCF board member; Alan Gaffner, BCCF board chair; Esther Henry, museum board member; John Goldsmith, museum curator; Kami Suess, Greenville Tourism director and BCCF board member; and Liz Heinzmann, museum treasurer and BCCF board member.

DeMoulin Calendars Now Available

(Thursday, December 1, 2016) - For the first time in its history, the DeMoulin Museum has released a limited edition calendar featuring four early 1900s photos of the DeMoulin factory. Two of the photos are being published for the first time. The calendar coincides with DeMoulin Bros. & Co.’s 125th anniversary. The calendars are being offered as a free gift to anyone making a minimum $5.00 donation to the DeMoulin Museum, which is a 501(c)3 under the Bond County Community Foundation. To make a donation or for more information about the calendar, call the DeMoulin Museum at (618) 664-4115, email at Contact Page or send a message to the museum’s Facebook page. The calendar was created by 3-Point Ink of Greenville.

First DeMoulin Museum Calendar, featuring four early 1900s photos of the DeMoulin factory.
DeMoulin Museum Recieves Large IOOF Donation

(Sunday, November 27, 2016) - The DeMoulin Museum has received an unprecedented donation of vintage Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) regalia — many of the pieces in nearly mint condition. The items were recently found by the children of the late Robert Beckemeyer in a shed on his rural Carlyle property. Mr. Beckemeyer, a grain and dairy farmer, led a life of service including membership in the Southern Illinois Antique Power Club, Wheatfield Fire Protection District, and 60 years in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
  When Carlyle’s IOOF Lodge #38 sold its original building in the 1980s, Mr. Beckemeyer saved most of the organization’s DeMoulin-made outfits, packing them in wood crates nestled among moth balls, where they stayed until a few weeks ago. Upon discovering the Odd Fellows artifacts, Beckemeyer’s children contacted Bob Seiffert, a current member of the chapter. With the blessing of the IOOF Grand Lodge of Illinois, Seiffert offered the collection to the DeMoulin Museum.
  “This is truly one of the most amazing artifact donations ever made to the DeMoulin Museum,” commented John Goldsmith, museum curator. “Bob Beckemeyer is the hero of this story. He saw the importance of not only saving these Odd Fellows items but packing them in moth balls preserved them in immaculate condition. Although these robes were made in the 1930s, the colors are still vibrant. They look like they were manufactured yesterday.”
  The Independent Order of Odd Fellows was one of dozens of fraternal organizations for whom DeMoulin Bros. & Co. manufactured regalia and initiation devices. As Goldsmith explained, the robes were just part of the collection. “We also received the coordinating hats for many of the 20 costumes, ceremonial collars, and even a pair of leather sandals featuring the DeMoulin stamp.”
  The collection is now being catalogued with plans for a special display to be unveiled in early 2017.

A portion of the recent donation of items from Carlyle, Illinois' Odd Fellows lodge
DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith (l) with Bob Seiffert from the Carlyle IOOF lodge.
Our 6000th Visitor has Arrived; Another Great Day at the Goat Museum!

(Monday, September 5, 2016) - The DeMoulin Museum is thrilled to announce that Trudy Ballinger of Rochester, Illinois was our 6000th visitor since we opened on March 20, 2010. Trudy and her husband, Roy (our 6001th visitor!), saw the DeMoulin Museum featured on Channel 20 in Springfield and made us part of their trip along the Historic National Road in Illinois. For being our 6000th visitor, Trudy received a museum t-shirt and mug.

Trudy and Roy Ballinger of Rochester, Illinois (DeMoulin Museum visitors 6000 and 6001)
Sliding Stairs New Artifact at DeMoulin Museum

(Monday, August 29, 2016) - The DeMoulin Museum, located in downtown Greenville, Illinois, has added another strange lodge initiation item to its arsenal. The Sliding Stairs, manufactured by DeMoulin Bros. & Co. during its fraternal period in the early 1900s, could be the museum’s rarest piece. Museum staff believe very few were manufactured due to the size and nature of the device.
  “It’s remarkable the factory sold any of them,” observed John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator. “The blindfolded candidate sat upon the top step of the stairs. A lodge member would trip the mechanism causing the steps to collapse, resulting in the candidate quickly sliding to the bottom. All of our volunteers agree the users of this device must have sustained a few injuries.”
  As was the norm for DeMoulin initiation devices, a blank cartridge was also discharged and a bell would ring.
  The contraption was purchased from an Austin, Texas antique dealer who found it in a store in Indiana, where it was about to be used as a display shelf. Fortunately the Texas dealer identified it as possibly being a DeMoulin device and immediately contacted the museum. “I’m not sure what amazes me more — that the DeMoulin Sliding Stairs exists or the good fortune that brought it to us,” Goldsmith noted.

IN THE PHOTO BELOW - DeMoulin Museum curator, John Goldsmith, demonstrates the trick to the sliding stairs. DeMoulin Museum curator demonstrates the trick to the sliding stairs.

IN THE PHOTO BELOW - DeMoulin Museum curator John Goldsmith (l) with Kevin Walker of Roadhouse Antiques in Austin, Texas. Walker located the DeMoulin Sliding Stairs at an antique store in Indiana. Kevin Walker of Roadhouse Antiques in Austin, Texas, located the DeMoulin Sliding Stairs in Indiana.

Thanks For Choosing Us!

(Sunday, July 31, 2016) - We’re proud to be your choice as Bond County’s Best Summer Fun Place and Best Family Fun Place! (Bond & Fayette County Shopper poll)

(IN THE PHOTO: DeMoulin Museum volunteer Gina Lewis places a Best in Bond County window cling on the museum’s door.)

DeMoulin Museum volunteer Gina Lewis afixes window cling announcing Shopper Award status.
Gown Worn By Legendary Actress Now On Display

(Monday, July 25, 2016) - In its 124 year history, DeMoulin Bros & Co. has manufactured outfits for famous entertainers like cowboy movie star Tom Mix, lion tamer Mabel Stark, and singer CeeLo Green. The DeMoulin Museum has recently obtained a doctoral gown made for Ruby Dee, one of the most respected actresses and humanitarians in show business history.
  Dee, who was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 2007’s American Gangster, was a Grammy, Emmy, and Obie award winner. She was also a National Medal of Arts, Kennedy Center Honors and Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award recipient. Among her other famous films were The Jackie Robinson Story, A Raisin in the Sun, and Do the Right Thing. In 1969, she was a regular on the TV show Peyton Place. She was married to Ossie Davis, with whom she often worked, until his death in 2005.
  The robe was purchased at Ms. Dee’s estate sale by a woman who then sold it to the DeMoulin Museum. Prior to agreeing to the purchase, the museum did extensive homework verifying the gown’s authenticity.
  “We’ve been able to document four occasions when Ruby Dee wore this gown while receiving special honors,” explained John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator. “The first was in 1982 when she received an honorary degree from Howard University. The others were in 1991 from Spelman College, 2009 from Princeton University and 2011 from Dartmouth. Three photos have been located showing her in the gown.”
  Goldsmith said he believes the gown was manufactured by DeMoulin in 1976. The actress’s name was embroidered on the inside. The remaining mystery is why the robe was originally made for her?
  From the 1920s until 1982, the DeMoulin factory had a very successful cap and gown and choir robe division. The Ruby Dee doctoral gown, which will be featured in a permanent display, is a highlight from this era in the company’s history.
  “There are no words to explain how excited we are to have this artifact on display. Ruby Dee was a giant in show business but more importantly a legendary figure in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s. I’m thrilled that this lady’s life intersected with DeMoulin Bros. & Co.”

IN THE PHOTO BELOW - DeMoulin Museum volunteers Gina Lewis (l) and Esther Henry (r) prepare Ruby Dee’s doctoral gown for display. DeMoulin Museum volunteers prepare Ruby Dee’s doctoral gown for display.

IN THE PHOTO BELOW - The DeMoulin manufacturing label inside the gown with Ms. Dee’s name embroidered below it. The DeMoulin manufacturing label inside the gown with Ms. Dee's name embroidered below it.

Time Clock Loaned to DeMoulin Museum

(Thursday, June 2, 2016) - Thanks to the generosity of an employee of DeMoulin Brothers & Co., the DeMoulin Museum has a piece of company history on display. The factory’s original time clock, manufactured around 1900 by the Cincinnati Time Recorder Company, was recently loaned to the museum by Mark Brooke. The company’s technical manager since 1992, Brooke was given the time clock around twenty years ago by Bill DeMoulin, retired company president. Brooke said he “worked on and off for a year” restoring the clock’s original internal components. After having the time clock as the center piece of the music room in his home, Brooke decided it was time to share it with the DeMoulin Museum’s visitors.
  “The stories this artifact could tell,” commented John Goldsmith, DeMoulin Museum curator.“Our best guess is this time clock was used through the early 1950s, which means some of the great characters from DeMoulin history used it.”
  One of the time clock’s unique features is a series of cigarette burns on its ledge. Brooke suspects employees placed their lit cigarettes on the ledge while clocking in.
  Because the clock still works, the hope is to recreate DeMoulin time cards for visitors to clock in and out with and keep as souvenirs.

Time Clock manufactured circa 1900

Cookout Makes History, Proceeds to Fund Building Renovations

(Saturday, April 16, 2016) - The DeMoulin Museum held a successful cookout fundraiser on Friday, April 15. Thanks to the hard work of Chef Wes Pourchot and his team plus our phenomenal volunteers, the DeMoulin Museum raised $1,850.25. Our deepest gratitude to everyone who stopped by and bought a pork burger, bratwurst, or butterfly chop.

Phenomenal volunteers work annual Cookout!

DeMoulin Museum Receives Unique Masonic Donation

(Sunday, February 21, 2016) - Greenville Masonic Lodge 245 AF & AM has donated a set of vintage aprons made by DeMoulin Bros. & Co. The aprons were found last fall in storage at the lodge’s former home on the Greenville square. Preparing for the move to their new location on College Avenue, members of the lodge suggested donating the aprons to the DeMoulin Museum. DeMoulin Bros. & Co. made a variety of things for Masonic lodges including aprons, furniture, and regalia. The aprons will be featured in a special display this spring.

IN THE PHOTO BELOW RIGHT - Bob Kirkman, Merle Scott, and Kenneth Henry of the Greenville Masonic Lodge try on a piece of their past, book-ended by John Goldsmith and Gina Lewis of the DeMoulin Museum.

Trying on a piece of their past during the brief presentation ceremony Sunday, February 21.
Bob Kirkman, Merle Scott, and Kenneth Henry of the Greenville Masonic Lodge, book-ended by John Goldsmith and Gina Lewis of the DeMoulin Museum.
Baseball Program To Benefit DeMoulin Museum

(Tuesday, March 29, 2016) - A special program entitled “The Ultimate Redbirds Fan Night” will be held Thursday, April 7 at 7:00 p.m. with proceeds to benefit the DeMoulin Museum. The program is being hosted by museum curator John Goldsmith at his home and will include a tour of his extensive St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis Browns collection, the showing of the 1982 World Series highlights film, and refreshments. Tickets are $20 each and a limited number will be sold. The deadline to purchase tickets is 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 6. Tickets may be reserved by calling the DeMoulin Museum at 664-4115 or emailing via the Contact Form.

Ultimate Redbirds Fan Night proceeds to benefit DeMoulin Museum.
DeMoulin Museum Welcomes Record Number of Visitors

(Monday, December 21, 2015) - The DeMoulin Museum saw 1,294 visitors pass through its doors in 2015, surpassing the previous high set in its inaugural year of 2010. John Goldsmith, museum curator, said Greenville’s Bicentennial weekend, bus tours, school tours, and national publicity on two travel websites were factors in setting the record.
  Since opening March 20, 2010 the DeMoulin Museum has welcomed 5,564 visitors from around 40 states. “For a museum that’s only open on weekends or by appointment, we’re thrilled with the response we’ve had over our first five years,” Goldsmith commented.
  The museum will be closed for the holidays and reopen Saturday, January 9, 2016. Anyone wishing to schedule a tour over the holidays may call (618) 322-2936.

Raffle Winners Drawn

(Monday, December 21, 2015) - The DeMoulin Museum congratulates the winners in our annual Cardinals Autograph Raffle (Drawn Dec 18, 2015):
  1st place Jeff Alexander (Willie McGee photo)
  2nd place Steve Ainscough (Vince Coleman baseball)
  3rd place Jace Keaster (Kolten Wong baseball card)

Thanks to everyone who bought tickets in the raffle in support of the DeMoulin Museum!

Ed the Elf rides the Goat!
Win an Autographed St. Louis Cardinals Collectible
Win an autographed St Louis Cardinals collectible
 
Roadside America Blog Website Features DeMoulin Museum

(September 14, 2015) - DeMoulin Museum in Greenville, Illinois is Roadside America’s Sight Of The Week for Sept. 14-20, 2015. We’re honored to be have been selected!
Click to read all about our “Museum of Initiation Pranks”

Magical Weekend of Labor Day Moments

(Tuesday, September 8, 2015) - Greenville’s 200th Birthday Bash delivered a fun-packed Labor Day weekend of milestones, special visitors, and presentations for the DeMoulin Museum. And the greatest highlight involved anticipated guests from Champaign-Urbana. The University of Illinois Marching Illini under the direction of Barry Houser were in Greenville Sunday, September 6, 2015, for the Bicentennial celebration. After participating in the parade the band performed a brief concert then presented a DeMoulin-made uniform to the DeMoulin Museum. It was another magical moment in the history of the museum and a great day for the DeMoulin Museum, DeMoulin Bros. & Co. factory, and U of I alums.

Marching Illini director Barry Houser (far right) donated Illini band uniform made by DeMoulin Bros. & Co.
Curator John Goldsmith (center) and DeMoulin Bros. factory Representative Mike Coling, Jr. (far right)
Wink-a-dink the DeMoulin Museum goat is also an Illini fan!
DeMoulin Museum Celebrating 5th Anniversary

Five years and 4,400 visitors ago, the DeMoulin Museum in downtown Greenville opened its doors. 5th Anniversary Party mini-poster

Autographed Cardinals World Series Replica Ticket Raffle Winner

(Sunday, December 21, 2014) - Congratulations to Janice Romack of Greenville, the winner of the Autographed Cardinal World Series Ticket raffle! The DeMoulin Museum thanks everyone who purchased tickets.
  The DeMoulin Museum raffled the 1982 World Series replica ticket autographed by Ozzie Smith, Willie McGee, Keith Hernandez, and Tom Herr to raise money for the museum renovation project. The ticket is 3.75 inches wide by 14 inches tall. The winner was randomly drawn on December 17.

Cards Ticket Raffle Winner
DeMoulin Museum Hosting Disney Events For Kids

(Monday, November 17, 2014) - The DeMoulin Museum, 110 W. Main Street, will offer a fun evening for kids on Saturday, November 29 during the downtown “Come Home For Christmas”. The museum will be open from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. for tours. At 6:00 p.m., girls ages 10 and under can enter an Elsa look-a-like contest. Elsa is one of the central characters in Disney’s animated film Frozen. There is no cost to enter the contest. Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries selected by the judges. Kids can also meet and have their picture taken with another Disney legend, Woody from Toy Story, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.

“Oddities” star Mike Zohn Visits Greenville

(Tuesday, April 15, 2014) - Mike Zohn, one of the stars of Science Channel’s “Oddities” and co-owner of Obscura Antiques and Oddities in New York, visited Greenville, Illinois and the DeMoulin Museum on Saturday, March 29, 2014. Zohn toured the DeMoulin Bros. Factory, signed autographs and presented a program about his store and TV show.

Mike Zohn Signing Autographs
Mike Zohn Touring DeMoulin Factory

Help support the DeMoulin Museum!

The DeMoulin Museum is a 501c3 not for profit organization. Although endorsed by DeMoulin Bros. & Co., the DeMoulin Museum is not operated by the factory. Your donation is important to maintaining the museum.

Sponsorship Forms available for Download in PDF and at the Museum.

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