The Downers Grove Historical Society invites the public to join amateur genealogist and local historian Marty Acks for an exploration of Israel Blackburn’s life at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 1 at the Downers Grove Public Library in honor of Black History Month.

Hear the inspiring story of Israel Blackburn as Acks traces his journey from slavery in Kentucky to becoming a founder of Downers Grove. This event is free but requires registration.