Bill Horton as Grant and Tim Lee as Oglesby.
The Governor Richard J. Oglesby Mansion and Museum, located at 421 West William Street in Decatur will be offering their annual educational play for 5th graders, April 27 through May 1, 2026. Currently, preparations for the play “Grant Visits the Oglesbys” are underway. This annual play welcomes area students to visit the Mansion and learn about the President Grant’s 1880 visit to Decatur. Students get a tour of the mansion and a chance to visit with the actors. Fifth grade teachers are encouraged to make reservations now for their classes to attend this 2026 opportunity by contacting Bill Horton at 217-791-0405. The mansion offers scholarships to assist with bus transportation costs.
“We are always happy to see classrooms enjoy this beautiful treasure located in the historic district,” said Oglesby Mansion Board President Dave Davis. “This is a fantastic opportunity to bring children to the mansion and educate them about our local history. We are grateful for the opportunities to tell the Governor Oglesby story,” Davis continued.