The Life and Times of James Millikin

Schedule

Sat, 16 May, 2026 at 02:00 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

141 N MAIN ST, Decatur, IL | Decatur, IL

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Step Into the Story of Decatur… Where History Still Lives
In honor of Historic Preservation Week, the Lincoln Square Theater invites you to experience a day where the past comes alive…
� OPEN HOUSE | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Walk through one of Decatur’s most treasured historic landmarks. Take in the architecture, the stories, and the spirit of a theater that has stood the test of time.
� DOORS OPEN | 1:00 PM
� FEATURE PRESENTATION | 2:00 PM
Join us for a powerful cinematic journey:
“The Original Big Blue: The Life and Times of James Millikin”
� Tickets: $15 (Available at the door only)
But this is more than just a movie…
This is the story of a man who helped shape Decatur into what it is today.
James Millikin wasn’t just a businessman—he was a visionary. Known as the “cattle king of the Prairie State,” he built his fortune from land, livestock, and banking, eventually establishing one of the strongest financial institutions in Illinois outside of Chicago. 
But his legacy didn’t stop there…
In 1901, he fulfilled a lifelong promise by founding what would become Millikin University—a place dedicated to education for generations to come. 
His impact can still be seen across Decatur—from historic homes and institutions to the very foundation of the city’s growth and culture.
� Why You Don’t Want to Miss This:
* Be among the few to experience this premiere documentary
* Discover the untold stories behind one of Decatur’s most influential figures
* Celebrate the importance of preserving the places and people that built our community
* Spend a meaningful afternoon connecting with history in a truly historic setting
� Whether you’re a lifelong historian, a lover of local stories, or simply someone who appreciates the roots of a great community…
this is your invitation to be part of something special.
� Come early. Stay inspired.
� Tickets available ONLY at the door — don’t miss your chance.
#HistoricPreservationWeek #DecaturIL #LincolnSquareTheatre #JamesMillikin #LocalHistory #PreserveThePast #BigBlueLegacy #DecaturEvents #HistoryMatters
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Where is it happening?

141 N MAIN ST, Decatur, IL, United States

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

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