First Friday: Aurora Flashback

Let's go back in time and celebrate all things Aurora! Check out the Aurora Historic Photos exhibit, chat with local history experts, enter the caption contest, enjoy a snack, craft, and more.

Chat with local history experts, including:

Tracy Duran: Tracy Duran is an independent historian dedicated to unveiling and sharing the rich, storied history of Aurora, Illinois. She is also the Board Secretary of the Aurora Regional Fire Museum. Based in North Aurora, Illinois, Tracy shares her love of history with her husband Coyote and their daughter Makayla. You can enjoy her Aurora history research at her official website www.tracyduran.com and her Instagram page, Discovering Aurora! 

Sherman Jenkins: Sherman L. Jenkins is a full-time author and president of a digital media company. He is currently researching and writing a book about African Americans in Aurora, 1921-1955. Prior to these achievements, he served as Executive Director for Economic Development for the City of Aurora for approximately 25 years and Alderman-At-Large for the City of Aurora. Mr. Jenkins led a negotiating team that landed the Chicago Premium Outlet Mall.

Eric Pry: Eric Pry is the Museum Director of the Grand Army of the Republic Military Museum. In 2023, the museum received several awards from the Illinois Association of Museums, including Small Institution of the Year. Under his stewardship, the museum’s first floor interior was restored, and the statue was returned to the top of the building. Mr. Pry holds a master's degree in American History and submitted his thesis on G.A.R. Post No. 20 in Aurora. 

Zachary Bishop: Zachary Bishop is a historian and museum professional whose current research focuses on the history of Kane and DuPage Counties. He is currently working on projects about the history of the Underground Railroad, housing discrimination, and the LGBTQ community in the area. 

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