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Knox & Galesburg History

Knox & Galesburg: Together since 1837

When George Washington Gale set out for the Illinois prairie more than 175 years ago, he fully intended to found both a college and a town, both supporting and sustaining the other. And since their joint founding, Knox College and Galesburg have shared a long history that has survived peace and prosperity, war and depressions, and all the events in between. 

The 1957 movie, Those Were the Days, being filmed on the Knox College campus. Old Main is in the background, and horses and buggies, plus students in early 1900s dress, are in the foreground.

A Knox students sits next to a statue of poet Carl Sandburg, native of Galesburg.

Celebrating a Joint History

Knox President Andrew McGadney speaks at a podium in front of a slide that says "This is the time for Knox to be bold" and features a student dancer.

A Bold Future for Knox & Galesburg

On May 2, 2025, Knox and Galesburg celebrated the launch of Venture Boldly, the College's first comprehensive campaign in 20 years, its historic past and bold future, and its lasting partnership with its hometown. Hundreds of members of the Knox and Galesburg communities participated in celebrations both off and on the Knox College campus. 

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