Remember the Patriots
Recognize the service and sacrifice of War of 1812 ancestors and help preserve their stories for future generations.
Our ancestors’ service. Our shared responsibility.
Remember their service.
Keep their stories alive.
Welcome to the Illinois Society of the War of 1812. We bring together descendants and preserve the memory of those who served our nation during the War of 1812—through history, education, and service in our communities.
Explore MembershipDiscover Illinois HistoryOur purpose
Honor our past. Preserve our heritage.
The Illinois Society carries forward a shared commitment to patriotism, historical preservation, and the remembrance of War of 1812 service.
Preserve Illinois History
Encourage research, historic preservation, and the identification and marking of War of 1812 soldiers’ graves in Illinois.
Inspire the Next Generation
Support patriotic education, recognize outstanding ROTC cadets, and encourage young people to explore our nation’s history.
A connection across generations
Discover your War of 1812 ancestry.
Membership connects your family’s story with the men who served during the War of 1812. Our Registrar/Genealogist can explain eligibility, help you identify supporting records, and guide you through the application process.
The Illinois Society’s longstanding membership guidance welcomes male descendants who can document qualifying lineal descent. Contact the registrar for current requirements and forms before beginning your application.
Contact the RegistrarService through remembrance
Our Illinois traditions
Patriot grave markings
Honor War of 1812 soldiers buried in Illinois by supporting the identification, remembrance, and marking of their graves.
ROTC recognition
Recognize outstanding cadets in ROTC programs at Illinois educational institutions and encourage leadership and patriotic service.
Student essays & education
The society’s traditional objectives include an essay contest for students ages 14–18. Contact the society for current availability, topics, and submission details.
Historic preservation
Work with other patriotic organizations to preserve history, commemorate service, and strengthen public understanding of the War of 1812.
An Illinois story
Samuel Whiteside
The old Illinois Society website chose Samuel Whiteside as the face of the state society. His story connects the Illinois frontier with service during the War of 1812.
Whiteside served as a ranger and led men in the Mississippi River region. The society’s historical account remembers his courage, resourcefulness, and service to the communities of early Illinois.
We continue that tradition by remembering the people behind the history—and the families and communities that keep their stories alive.
Continue your research
History & membership resources
General Society
Explore the national organization and its War of 1812 heritage.
Visit the General Society ↗Application guidance
Ask the Illinois registrar about current forms, lineage documentation, and qualifying service.
Ask about applying →Society activities
Contact us for information about meetings, commemorations, education programs, and opportunities to take part.
Get in touch →Illinois Society
Keep the connection alive.
Membership questions, family history, or an interest in our programs? Contact our Registrar/Genealogist.
Steve Hyatt
Registrar / Genealogist
1812ilstate.registrar@gmail.com