October 27, 2025-The Millikin Homestead will host a special Civil War history event on Sunday, November 9, featuring Millikin University alumnus Dr. Eugene Watkins. His presentation, “The 83rd Illinois, Wyatt Earp, John Wayne and the Unique Historical Connections of the Civil War in Western Illinois,” will take place from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
After the talk, an open house will run from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Visitors can view several Civil War artifacts on display in the History Room, on loan from the Macon County History Museum.
The open house will also feature an original fireplace mantel and surrounding the Millikin family farm in Pennsylvania, the birthplace of James Millikin. This is the first time the piece has been shown in Decatur.
Admission is $5 per person, payable at the door. Guests who attend Dr. Watkins’ presentation will not need to pay again for the open house.
Dr. Watkins will share stories about the 83rd Illinois Regiment and explore connections between Illinois, the Civil War, and well-known figures such as Wyatt Earp and John Wayne.
The event is open to the public.
