History Around Town
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
If there is another history museum in the metropolitan Chicago area that you would like added to the History Around Town directory, please write to:
The President's Office
Chicago History Museum
1601 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60614
A
A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum
Established to promote, honor and celebrate the legacy of A. Philip Randolph and contributions made by African-Americans to America's labor history.
Location:
10406 S Maryland Ave
Chicago, IL 60628
Phone: 773-928-3935
www.aphiliprandolphmuseum.org
Addison Historical Museum
A collection of local history featuring artifacts from Native American and German Lutheran populations, including farm implements, furniture, and medical tools.
Location:
129-135 Army Trail Rd
Addison, IL 60101
Phone: 630-628-1433
http://www.addisonadvantage.org/History/HistoricalSite.htm
American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (AHSGR) Northern Illinois Chapter
Founded in 1978 to bring together those members of the German population in Northern Illinois who had shared history in Russia.
Location:
847 S. Home Ave.
Oak Park, IL 60304-1015
Phone: 708-386-2238
http://www.ahsgr.org/northern_illinois_chapter.htm
American Indian Center
To promote the fellowship among Indian people of all Tribes living in metropolitan Chicago, and to create bonds of understanding and communication between Indians and non-Indians in this city.
Location:
1630 W Wilson Ave
Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: 773-275-5871
http://www.aic-chicago.org
Ancient Egyptian Museum
Location:
3849 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60653
Phone: 773-268-3700
Arlington Heights Historical Museum
Offers a variety of school and youth programs directed towards the hands-on learning of community history.
Location:
110 W Fremont St
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Phone: 847-255-1225
http://www.ahmuseum.org
B
Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture
Features examples of Lithuanian coins, music and rare folk art prints, as well as the stories of important members of the community.
Location:
6500 S Pulaski Rd
Chicago, IL 60629
Phone: 773-582-6500
www.lithaz.org/museums/balzekas
Barrington Area Historical Society
Highlighted by educational programs, a body of curriculum for 3rd graders focuses on local history with changing exhibits.
Location:
212 W Main St
Barrington, IL 60010
Phone: 847-381-1730
www.bahsil.org/index.html
Bartlett History Museum
Strives to preserve Bartlett's landmarks, heritage and artifacts.
Location:
228 S Main St
Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: 630-837-0800
www.village.bartlett.il.us/museum/museumhistory.html
Berwyn Historical Society
Dedicated to collecting and preserving historical information about the city of Berwyn.
Location:
1241 Oak Park Ave
Berwyn, IL 60402
Phone: 708-484-0020
www.berwyninformer.com/history.html
Bloomingdale Historical Society
Collects oral and written memorabilia pertaining to Bloomingdale.
Location:
101 Fairfield Way
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
Phone: 630-529-0787
Bloomingdale Park District Museum
Location:
108 Bloomingdale Road
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
Phone: 630-539-3096
www.bloomingdaleparks.org/m-museum.htm
Blue Island Historical Society
Created to establish and illustrate the growth and development of the Blue Island area through a variety of media.
Location:
13018 Maple Ave
Blue Island, IL 60406
Phone: 708-371-8546
Bolingbrook Historic Preservation Community
Location:
375 W Briarcliff
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Phone: 630-226-8400
Brazilian Cultural Center of Chicago History Museum
To gather and spread information about the diverse peoples of Brazil, fostering understanding and appreciation for Brazilian culture, music, art and dance.
Location:
1436 W Jonquil Terrace
Chicago, IL 60626
Phone: 312-404-7180
http://www.brazilianculturalcenter.org
Bronzeville Historical Society
To preserve, protect, collect and perpetuate the records of African Americans who live or lived in Chicago.
Location:
Library/Depository 11431 S Forrestville Ave #1
Chicago, IL 60628-5109
Phone: 773-291-9114
http://www.bronzevillehistoricalsociety.com
C
Calumet City Historical Society Museum
Established to encourage members of Calumet City to share in the history of their region.
Location:
760 Wentworth Ave
Calumet City, IL 60409
Phone: 708-832-9390
http://www.lakenetnwi.org/member/cchs/index.html
Cambodian Association of Illinois
To enhance the cultural awareness as well as the self-sufficiency of Cambodian immigrants in the Chicago area.
Location:
2831 W Lawrence
Chicago, IL 60625
Phone: 773-878-5299
http://www.cambodian-association.org
Carol Stream Historical Society
Founded to help celebrate the nation's bi-centennial and features a program entitled “I Remember When” to help visitors share in the past of the Carol Stream Area.
Location:
301 W Lies Rd
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Phone: 630-665-0686
http://www.carolstreamhistorical.com
Chester Gould/Dick Tracy Museum
To display, promote and honor the work, achievements and the life of Chester Gould, creator of the “Dick Tracy” comic strip and character.
Location:
101 N Johnson St
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-8281
http://www.chestergould.org/navigation/museum.html
Chicago Japanese American Historical Society
To preserve, promote, and present the history of Japanese Americans in the Chicagoland area.
Location:
618 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60605
http://www.cjahs.org
Chicago Jewish Historical Society
To discover, preserve and share information about the Jewish experience in the Chicago Area.
Location:
618 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: 312-663-5634
http://chicagojewishhistory.org/
Chicago Lawn Historical Society
Houses information and articles in the Chicago Branch Public Library.
Location:
6120 S Kedzie Ave
Chicago, IL 60629
Phone: 312-747-0639
Chicago Portage, Friends of
Friends of the Chicago Portage promotes the historic interpretation,
ecological restoration and the appropriate development of the Chicago
Portage National Historic Site through volunteer advocacy, public
events and other projects that raise public awareness of its history
and significance.
http://www.chicagoportage.org/
Chicago Portage National Historic Site
Preserves the key historic site, Chicago's Plymouth Rock, that was treaded on by American Indians, the explorers Joliet and Marquette, and the eventual founders of Chicago. Located in Portage Woods Forest Preserve on the west side of Harlem Ave.
Location:
536 N Harlem
River Forest, IL 60305
http://www.civiccenterauthority.org/pages/portsite.htm
Crystal Lake Historical Society/The Colonel Palmer House
1858 Greek Revival House with cobblestone foundation. Society's Research/Archives room open to the public.
Location:
660 E Terra Cotta
Crystal Lake, IL 60039
Phone: 815-455-1151
http://www.cl-hs.org
Czechoslovak Heritage Museum
Experience the rich culture and tradition of Czech, Slovak and Moravian history.
Location:
122 W 22nd St
Oak Brook, IL 60521
Phone: 800-543-3272
www.csafraternallife.org/Default.asp?pg=mc0
D
Deerfield Area Historical Society
Features preserved pioneer buildings and carriages, as well as a museum and store.
Location:
850 Waukegan Rd
Deerfield, IL 60015
Phone: 847-945-5000
www.deerfield-il.org/community/hist_soc.html
Des Plaines History Center
Facilities include the 1907 Kinder House museum, the 1916 Fisher-Wright house, and Visitor Center which houses local history archives, exhibits on Des Plaines history and a children's play room.
Location:
789 Pearson St
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Phone: 847-391-5399
http://www.desplaineshistory.org
Downers Grove Park District Museum
Founded to preserve local history through a museum, volunteer preservation, a library and special events based on old-time themes.
Location:
831 Maple Ave
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Phone: 630-963-1309
www.dgparks.org/catalog.cfm?dest=dir&linkid=17&linkon=section
DuPage County Historical Museum
Featuring a model railroad, a family room of the 1890's, and hand-washing activities for kids, the story of DuPage County History is being continually added to at the Museum.
Location:
102 E Wesley St
Wheaton, IL 60187
Phone: 630-682-7343
http://www.co.dupage.il.us/museum
DuSable Museum of African American History
Named after a Haitian fur trader, the Museum is dedicated to preserving the cultural and historic legacy of the African-American community in Chicago.
Location:
740 E 56th Pl
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-947-0600
http://www.dusablemuseum.org/
E
Edgebrook Historical Society
Founded to coincide with the Old Edgebrook Landmark District, the Society preserves artifacts and photos of the Old Edgebrook Landmark District and communities of Edgebrook, Sauganash, and Forest Glen.
Location:
6173 N McClellan
Chicago, IL 60646
Phone: 773-631-2854
Edgewater Historical Society
Founded after the Edgewater Centennial celebration, and dedicated to preserving the history of the area.
Location:
5358 N Ashland Ave
Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: 773-506-4849
http://www.edgewaterhistory.org
Elmhurst Historical Museum
Explore the history of Elmhurst and more at this award-winning museum housed in the historic Glos Mansion built circa 1892. Featured exhibits include: permanent exhibits on the history of Elmhurst and the Glos Mansion, national traveling exhibits on a broad range of topics, and temporary exhibits of local interest.
Location:
120 E Park Ave
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Phone: 630-833-1457
www.elmhurst.org/elmhurst/museum
Ernest Hemingway Foundation Museum
Dedicated to the twenty years of his life that Ernest Hemingway spent growing as a writer in Oak Park.
Locations:
The Ernest Hemingway Museum
200 N Oak Park Ave
Oak Park, IL 60302
The Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Home
339 N. Oak Park Ave
Oak Park, IL 60302
Phone: 708-524-5383
http://www.ehfop.org
Evanston History Center
Founded in 1898, the Charles Gates Dawes House is the centerpiece of the Center's efforts to preserve the history of the Evanston Community.
Location:
225 Greenwood St
Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: 847-475-3410
http://evanstonhistorycenter.org/
F
Filipino American Historical Society of Chicago
Location:
5472 S Dorchester Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-947-8696
http://www.fahsc.org/
Flagg Creek Heritage Society
Visit the restoration of an 1856 farmhouse.
Location:
7425 S Wolf Road
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Phone: 708-246-1160
The Life and Times of Florence Kelley in Chicago, 1891-1899
This online archive is a project of the Northwestern University School of Law.
http://florencekelley.northwestern.edu/
Frances Willard Historical Association
This home of the famous woman reformer has maintained many family heirlooms in the setting of her Gothic Revival Victorian home.
Location:
1730 Chicago Ave
Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: 847-328-7500
http://www.franceswillardhouse.org/home/index.php
Frankfort Area Historical Society
Displays local history and pioneer records, plus children's displays and artifacts.
Location:
132 Kansas St
Frankfort, IL 60423
Phone: 815-469-6541
Franzosenbusch Prairie House Nature Center and Museum at Wolf Road Prairie
Contains within its walls the c.1850's first Lutheran schoolroom and teacher's quarters in Proviso Township. Converted to a farmhouse in c.1860, the structure now features historic displays and natural resource information and serves as an orientation center for Wolf Road Prairie tours, programs and events.
Location:
11225 Constitution Dr
Westchester, IL 60154
Phone: 708-531-1851
http://www.franzosenbuschheritageproject.org/
http://www.savetheprairiesociety.org
G
George S. Clayson House Museum
Dedicated to the collection and preservation of local history. Also features a cemetary walk.
Location:
224 E Palatine Rd
Palatine, IL 60078
Phone: 847-991-6460
www.palatineparkdistrict.com/clayson.html
Glen Ellyn Historical Society
The Society runs Stacey's Tavern Museum, as well as works to assign local landmarks with historic status.
Location:
557 Geneva Rd
Glen Ellyn, IL 60138
Phone: 630-858-8696
http://www.glen-ellyn.com/historical
Glencoe Historical Society
The Society preserves historic artifacts not only from the community of Glencoe, IL, but also from Glencoe, Scotland.
Location:
377 Park Ave
Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: 847-835-0040
http://www.glencoehistoricalsociety.org
Glenview Area Historical Society
The museum features an 1864 farmhouse and a library of photos and artifacts from the Glenview area.
Location:
1121 Waukegan Rd
Glenview, IL 60025
Phone: 847-724-2235
Glessner House Museum
A house, controversial in its time, is used to look back on an era of urbanization in Chicago, through fashion trends, consumerism and industrial achievement.
Location:
1800 S Prairie Ave
Chicago, IL 60616
Phone: 312-326-1480
http://www.glessnerhouse.org/
Graue Mill & Museum
Boasting the only operating water wheel gristmill in northern Illinois, the Museum also puts on milling, spinning and weaving demonstrations daily. The basement, once a stop on the Underground Railroad, now houses an exhibit of artifacts and documents relating to slavery and the Civil War.
Location:
3800 York Rd
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Phone: 630-655-2090
http://www.grauemill.org
Grayslake Historical Society & Museum
Exhibits artifacts related to the history of Grayslake and the area.
Location:
164 Hawley St
Grayslake, IL 60030
Phone: 847-223-7663
Great Lakes Naval Museum
Surveys the history of US Navy boot camp and contains an archive of uniforms, maps, photographs, textbooks and other memorabilia.
Location:
Building 158, US Naval Station
Great Lakes, IL 60088
Phone: 847-688-3154
www.nsgreatlakes.navy.mil/museum
Greater Harvard Area Historical Society
Established to display artifacts and history from military, school and farm life in the Harvard area.
Location:
308 N Hart St
Harvard, IL 60033
Phone: 815-943-3561
H
Hellenic Museum & Cultural Center
To preserve and showcase the Greek-American immigrant experience, heritage, and art work.
Location:
801 W Adams St, 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: 312-655-1234
http://www.hellenicmuseum.org
Highland Park Historical Society
Contains a collection of memoribilia on Walter Duhrban of "Walt's Workshop," a popular 1950's TV show.
Location:
326 Central Ave
Highland Park, IL 60034
http://www.highlandparkhistory.com
Hinsdale Historical Society
Until 1973, the history of the Hinsdale community was rotting away in various attics. The establishment of the Historical Society has served to bring together the memorabilia the region has to offer.
Location:
15 S Clay St
Hinsdale, IL 60522
Phone: 630-789-2600
http://www.hinsdalehistory.org
Hispanic/Puerto Rican Cultural Museum
Established to celebrate the historic of the Hispanic/Puerto Rican communities of Chicago.
Location:
2438 Rayburn Building
Chicago, IL 60647
Historic Pullman Foundation
Established to serve as a vehicle for preservation and restoration activities within the Pullman Historic District in Chicago, Illinois.
Location:
11141 S Cottage Grove Ave
Pullman, IL 60628
Phone: 773-785-8901
http://www.pullmanil.org/
Historic Wagner Farm
Historical working farm that preserves and demonstrates the traditions and way of life of the early 20th Century American Dairy Farm.
Location:
1510 Wagner Road
Glenview, IL 60025
Phone: 847-657-1506
http://www.glenviewparks.org/wagner-farm/wagner-farm.htm
Historical Society of Cicero
Location:
2423 S Austin Blvd
Cicero, IL 60650
Phone: 708-652-8305
Historical Society of Elmwood Park
Location:
302 N Magnolia
Elmwood, IL 61529
Phone: 309-742-7791
Historical Society of Forest Park/ Forest Park Public Library
Discover, collect, publicize and display material pertaining to the history of Forest Park.
Location:
7555 Jackson Blvd
Forest Park, IL 60130
Phone: 708-366-7171
www.forestpark.net/index-4-Historical.htm
Historical Society of Greater Peotone & The Rathje Mill
A variety of outdoors activities are offered in and around the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal, plus tours of the current restoration of the 1872 Rathje Mill.
Location:
427 W Corning Ave
Peotone, IL 60468
www.peotone.com/rathjemill/index.htm
Historical Society of Oak Park & River Forest
Focuses on notable figures in the history of the Oak Park and River Forest area, including F.L. Wright and Ernest Hemingway.
Location:
217 Home Ave
Oak Park, IL 60303
Phone: 708-848-6755
http://www.oprf.com/oprfhist/
Hofmann Tower Museum
Eight story museum that includes a post office and room display. Located on Illinois' Route 66.
Location:
3910 Barry Point Rd
Lyons, IL 60534
Phone: 708-447-0753
Homewood Historical Society
Features an 1891 house museum, public programs and bus tours.
Location:
2035 W 183rd St
Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: 708-799-1896
http://village.homewood.il.us/hhshome.htm
Hoosier Grove Museum
Originally built as a one-room schoolhouse in 1904 on the corner of Old Church and Barrington Roads, the museum now regularly features school programs.
Location:
700 W Irving Park
Streamwood IL, 60107
Phone: 630-213-9706
http://www.hoosiergrovemuseum.com
Hyde Park Historical Society
Exhibits the history of the Hyde Park, Kenwood and Woodlawn communities of Chicago's South Side.
Location:
5529 S Lake Park Ave
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-493-1893
http://www.hydeparkhistory.org/
I
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
Examines historical events of the Holocaust and WWII period, as well as exhibiting modern student reflection in the form of art and poetry.
Location:
4255 Main St
Skokie, IL 60076
Phone: 847-677-4640
www.hmfi.org
Illinois Railway Museum
Founded to demonstrate the importance of railways in the founding of the Chicago area and the United States, and to preserve early railroad cars.
Location:
7000 Olson Rd
Union, IL 60180
Phone: 815-923-4000
http://www.irm.org/
Indo-American Center
Dedicated to assist South Asian immigrants to Chicago through services that facilitate their adjustment, integration and friendship in a wider society.
Location:
6328 N California Ave
Chicago, IL 60659
Phone: 773-973-4444
http://www.indoamerican.org
Institute of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture
A cultural and educational institution devoted to the promotion, integration and advancement of Puerto Rican arts and culture.
Location:
3015 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: 773-486-8345
http://www.iprac.org
Irish American Heritage Center
Originally opened by the President of Ireland, Ms. Mary Robinson, in 1991, the museum includes a tapestry by Lily Yeats, a grand piano, and the first organ from St. Patrick's Church in Illinois.
Location:
4626 N Knox Ave
Chicago, IL 60630
Phone: 773-282-7035
http://www.irishamhc.com
Irving Park Historical Society
Location:
4200 W Irving Park Rd
Chicago, IL 60641
Phone: 773-777-2750
www.iphs.org (website currently
under construction)
Isle a la Cache Museum
The Museum currently completed a complete renovation and offers an new perspective of 18th century life.
Location:
501 E Romeo Rd
Romeoville, IL 60446
Phone: 815-886-1467
www.fpdwc.org/isle.cfm
Itasca Historical Depot Museum
Features a continuing exhibit on Dr. Elijah Smith, as well as rotating exhibits on topics including Itasca's WWII veterans.
Location:
101 N Catlpa Ave
Itasca, IL 60143
Phone: 630-773-3364
J
James P. Fitzgibbons Historical Museum
Houses artifacts donated by residents of East Side and other areas.
Location:
Calumet Park Fieldhouse at 98th St and Ave G
Chicago, IL 60617
Phone: 773-721-7948
www.neiu.edu/~reseller/sehsintro.htm
Jane Addams Hull-House Museum
The museum and historic house serve as a dynamic memorial to Jane Addams, the work of her associates, and the neighborhood they served.
Location:
800 S Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: 312-413-5353
http://www.hullhousemuseum.org
Joliet Jr. College Living Education History Museum
A one-room school, nature trails and planetarium give visitors an experience from the 1860's through the 1930's.
Location:
1215 Houbolt Rd
Joliet, IL 60431
Phone: 815-729-9020
K
Kenilworth Historical Society
Holding more than 1,200 artifacts and a collection of photographs, the Society attempts to give visitors a sense of Kenilworth's place in larger historical events.
Location:
415 Kenilworth Ave
Kenilworth, IL 60043
Phone: 847-251-2565
http://www.kenilworthhistory.org
Korean American Resource and Cultural Center
Location:
2701 A West Peterson
Chicago, IL 60659
Phone: 773-506-9158
www.chicagokrcc.org
L
La Grange Area Historical Society
Founded in 1972 to provide the means for the research and study of the heritage of La Grange.
Location:
444 S La Grange Rd
La Grange, IL 60525
Phone: 708-482-4248
http://www.lagrangehistory.org
Lake County Discovery Museum
Contains the nation's largest permanent exhibition on the history and significance of postcards.
Location:
27277 N Forest Preserve Rd
Wauconda, IL 60084
Phone: 847-968-3400
www.lcfpd.org/discovery_museum/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.view
Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Historical Society
Strives to make local history come alive in community life.
Location:
361 E Westminster
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Phone: 847-234-LAKE
http://www.lflbhistory.org
Lakes Region Historical Society
Collects and preserves items pertinent to the early years of the Antioch and Chain O'Lakes region.
Location:
817 N Main
Antioch, IL 60002
Phone: 847-395-4912
Lansing Historical Museum
Preserves Lansing history, including the renovation of a train depot.
Location:
115 E Kansas Ave
Lansing, IL 60438
Phone: 913-250-0203
www.lansingcurrent.com/lansing/historicalsociety
Lemont Area Historical Society & Museum
Offers groups tours, weddings, genealogical research and volunteer training programs.
Location:
306 Lemont St
Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: 630-257-2972
http://www.township.com/lemont/historical
Libertyville-Mundelein Historical Society
The home of Ansel B. Cook, preserved from 1878 is here saved, as well as a collection of local historical artifacts.
Location:
413 N Milwaukee Ave
Libertyville, IL 60048
Phone: 847-362-2330
http://library.thinkquest.org/12934/abouthist.html
Lisle Heritage Society
Rotating programs include a celebration of the agricultural ways of the community's past, blacksmithing classes, and a recreation of an old-fashioned Christmas.
Location:
921 School St
Lisle, IL 60532
Phone: 630-968-0499
http://www.lisleparkdistrict.org/heritagesociety.htm
Lockport Area Genealogical & Historical Society
Strives to shape and preserve local family heritage and history.
Location:
DesPlaines Library 121 E 8th St
Lockport, IL 60441
Phone: 815-838-6236
www.lockporthistory.org/index.htm
Lombard Historical Museum
An 1840's house museum deals with the issues of abolition, temperance, the underground railroad and early pioneer life.
Location:
23 W Maple St
Lombard, IL 60148
www.lombardhistory.org
Long Grove Historical Society
Showcases historic farmhouses in the community.
Location:
3110 Old McHenry Rd
Long Grove, IL 60047
Phone: 847-634-6511
www.longgroveonline.com/history/html
M
Manhattan Township Historical Society
Founded in 1986 to preserve local history.
Location:
15921 W Baker Rd
Manhattan, IL 60442
Phone: 815-463-8411
Matteson Historical Museum
Among more traditional artifacts, their collection includes washing machines, farm equipment and seats from the Illinois Central Railroad.
Location:
813 School Ave
Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: 708-748-3033
http://www.vil.matteson.il.us/Museum/historical_museum.htm
Maywood Historical Society
Houses documents and memorabilia on display for the public.
Location:
202 S 2nd Ave
Maywood, IL 60153
McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum
Dedicated to the ideal of a democratic society, the Museum works to advance the idea of freedom in all aspects of life.
Location:
445 N Michigan Ave, Suite 754
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-222-4860
www.freedommuseum.us
McHenry County Historical Society Museum
Museum houses changing local history exhibits; excellent local history library with an 1847 log cabin and one room school on site. Regularly held programs, events; classes are conducted on site. A mobile museum, "The James" is available. Two other historic buildings are off site.
Location:
6422 Main St
Union, IL 60180
Phone: 815-923-2267
http://www.mchsonline.org
Midlothian Historical Society
Location:
14609 S Springfield
Midlothian, IL 60445
www.villageofmidlothian.net
Morton Grove Historical Society
The exhibit centers on an 1888 Victorian farm house.
Location:
6834 W Dempster
Morton Grove, IL 60053
Phone: 847-965-1200
http://www.mortongroveparks.com/aboutus.php
Mt. Greenwood Historical Society
Location:
11010 S Kedzie Ave
Chicago, IL 60655
Phone: 312-239-2805
Mt. Prospect Historical Society
Provides a history of Mt. Prospect, with an emphasis on the origins of the villagers; includes an 1906 farmhouse.
Location:
101 S Maple St
Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: 847-392-9006
www.mtphist.org
N
Naper Settlement
A historic museum village, administered by the Naperville Heritage Society, features costumed interpreters, working businesses, a research library, and changing exhibits.
Location:
523 S Webster St
Naperville, IL 60540
Phone: 630-420-6010
http://www.napersettlement.museum/
New Lenox Area Historical Society
This historic home has played host to a variety of figures, including George Washington and his officers, after the Battle of Short Hills in 1777.
Location:
205 W Maple St, Suite NLAHS
New Lenox, IL 60451
Phone: 815-485-5000
http://www.newlenoxhistory.org/
Niles Historical Society/Museum
Showcases a 1913 Ford, vintage clothing, a baking wagon, and early 1900s living quarters.
Location:
8970 Milwaukee Ave
Niles, IL 60714
Phone: 847-390-0160
www.vniles.com/content/templates/?a=503
Northbrook Historical Society
Centers around a historic inn that served as a welcome spot in the 1800's.
Location:
1776 Walters Ave
Northbrook, IL 60065
Phone: 847-498-3404
www.northbrookhistory.org/#HS
Northwest Chicago Historical Society
Established to promote, honor and celebrate and preserve the history of the neighborhoods of Chicago's Northwest Side.
Location:
PO Box 30067
Chicago, IL 60630
Phone: 773.350.9414
http://www.nwchicagohistory.org
Norwood Park Historical Society
Focuses on the history of the Norwood Park area, and Chicago's northwest side.
Location:
5624 N Newark Ave
Chicago, IL 60631
Phone: 773-631-4633
http://www.norwoodparkhistoricalsociety.org
O
Oak Brook Historical Society
Collection topics include archeology, early settlement, and past and present day development of the Village of Oak Brook. Archives, photographs and artifacts available as research resources for the above named topics.
Location:
P. O. Box 3821
Oak Brook, IL 60522-3821
www.obparks.org/obhs/obhs.html
Oriental Institute Museum
Features tours, lectures and special programs on the history and culture of the ancient and Near Middle East.
Location:
University of Chicago History Museum 1155 E 58th St
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-702-9514
http://www.oi.uchicago.edu/OI/MUS/OI_Museum.html
Orland Historical Society
The Society maintains several cabins, some predating 1860, as historical monuments in the region.
Location:
9830 W 144th Pl
Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: 708-349-0065
http://www.orlandhistory.org
P
Palos Historical Society
Collects and preserves pictures, newspaper clippings and materials of early families.
Location:
12332 Forest Glen Blvd
Palos Park, IL 60464
Phone: 708-361-3118
www.palospark.org/historicalmember.htm
Park Forest Historical Society
Contains post WWII period furniture, kitchen gadgets, as well as an original townhome.
Location:
141 Forest Blvd
Park Forest, IL 60466-1749
Phone: 708-748-3731
http://parkforesthistory.org/HisSociety-website/HisSociety-website/index.shtml
Park Ridge Historical Society
Develops, promotes and celebrates interest in local history.
Location:
41 Prairie Ave
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Phone: 847-696-1973
www.parkridgehistoricalsociety.com
Plainfield Historical Society & Museum
Collects artifacts from Native American tribes, pioneer households, and the early days of the Illinois and Michigan Canal.
Location:
217 E Main St.
Plainfield, IL 60544
Phone: 815-436-4073
Polish Museum of America
Exhibits a host of Polish American paintings, drawings, and writings, as well as features special exhibits and concerts. Also houses Polish paintings and crafts.
Location:
984 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: 773-384-3352
http://pma.prcua.org/homeen.html
Pritzker Military Library
A collection of materials and programs focusing on the concept of the Citizen Soldier as an essential element for the preservation of democracy.
Location:
610 N Fairbanks Court, 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-587-0234
http://www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/
Pullman State Historic Site
The 13 acre Pullman Factory site which includes the now reconstructed Clocktower/Administration Building and the remains of the East Erecting Shop as well as the Hotel Florence.
Location:
11111 S Forrestville Ave
Chicago, IL 60628
Phone: 773-660-2341
http://www.pullman-museum.org
R
Ravenswood-Lake View Historical Association
Focuses on the history of neighborhoods in Chicago's North Side.
Location:
4455 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60625
http://www.ravenswoodlakeview.com
Ridge Historical Society
Provides displays and aid in the exhibition of the history of the Morgan Park and Beverly, Washington Heights communities from 1835 to the present.
Location:
10621 S Seeley Ave
Chicago, IL 60643
Phone: 773-881-1675
http://www.ridgehistoricalsociety.org
Riverdale Historical Society at the Riverdale Public Library
Location:
208 W 144th St
Riverdale, IL 60827
Phone: 708-841-3311
www.riverdale.lib.il.us
Riverside Historical Museum
Riverside is one of the first planned communities in the United States, designed in 1869 by Frederick Law Olmsted. The entire village of Riverside was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970 because of its unique plan of curvilinear roads, beautiful parks, gas lamp street lights and unmatched landscape design along the Des Plaines River.
Location:
10 Pine Avenue
Riverside, IL 60546-2264
Phone: 708-447-2542
www.riversidemuseum.net
Robbins Historical Society
The Society acts as a traveling history museum, and will visit your location within 50 miles of Robbins free of charge, to present a 45min slide show and documentary dating back to 1892.
Location:
13822 S Central Park Ave
PO Box 1561
Robbins, IL 60472
Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society
Includes a large photo collection, as well as audio and video histories, and rotating exhibits.
Location:
7344 N Western
Chicago, IL 60645
Phone: 773-764-4078
http://www.rpwrhs.org/rpwrhs
Rolling Meadows Historical Museum
Reproduction of a 1950's house displaying artifacts from the period and an educational center concerning the development of the City of Rolling Meadows.
Location:
3100 Central Rd
Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
Phone: 847-577-7086
http://www.cityrm.org/historical_museum.htm
Romeoville Area Historical Society
Founded to capture and exhibit the heritage and culture of Slovenian immigrants in the Chicago region.
Location:
431 N Chicago St
Joliet, IL 60432
Phone: 708-739-7951
Roselle Historical Foundation
In an old house museum, the early history of Roselle is put on display through the use of farm, school, railroad and military artifacts.
Location:
102 S Prospect St
Roselle, IL 60172
Phone: 630-351-5300
http://www.roselle.il.us/community/historicaloverview.html
S
Schiller Park Historical Commission
Location:
9526 Irving Park Rd
Schiller Park, IL 60176
Phone: 847-678-2550
www.villageofschillerpark.com/HistoricalCommission.htm
Skokie Heritage Museum
Located in the Historic Engine House, a permanent exhibit of Skokie's Fire Department is on display on the first floor. The second floor features changing Skokie history exhibits. The Historic Log Cabin shows a part of regional pioneer life from the 1850's.
Location:
8031 Floral Ave
Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: 847-677-6672
http://www.skokieparkdistrict.org/spdcm/default.aspx?c=1065
Slovenian Women's Union Heritage Museum
Displays artifacts and keepsakes from Slovenia.
Location:
431 N Chicago St
Joliet, IL 60432
Phone: 815-727-2722
South Holland Historical Society
Among other artifacts, the Society holds an Edna Ferber collection, a historic farm house and barn, and a collection of Native American and settler artifacts.
Location:
16250 Wausau Ave
South Holland, IL 60473
Phone: 708-596-2722
www.southholland.org/Organizations/historical.htm
South Suburban Genealogical & Historical Society
The Society maintains a library of more than 11,000 volumes that focuses on local history and American and Illinois genealogies, but includes information from around the world.
Location:
3000 W 170th Pl
Hazel Crest, IL 60429
Phone: 708-335-3340
http://www.ssghs.org
Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies
Serving diverse communities and fostering an understanding for Jewish faith as well as people of all faiths, locally, regionally and around the world.
Location:
610 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: 312-322-1700
http://www.spertus.edu/
Stone Park Historical Association
Location:
1629 Mannheim Rd
Stone Park, IL 60165
Phone: 312-322-1700
Swahili Institute of Chicago
Location:
10707 S Hale
Chicago, IL 60643
Phone: 773-785-1430
Swedish American Museum
An extensive program of children's hands-on exhibits, as well as gallery showings, language and art classes and permanent displays chronicling the story of Swedish immigrants in Chicago.
Location:
5211 N Clark
Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: 773-728-8111
http://www.samac.org
T
The History Makers
The single largest African American archival project since the recording of 2,300 slaves during the WPA era. The goal of HistoryMakers is to have completed 5,000 interviews over a period of 5 years.
Location:
1900 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60616
Phone: 312-674-1900
http://www.thehistorymakers.com
Tinley Park Historical Society
Examines the history of Tinley Park, as well as the Rock Island Railroad.
Location:
6727 W 174th St
Tinley Park, IL 60477
Phone: 708-429-4210
U
Ukrainian National Museum
The Museum uses folk art, costumes and other artifacts to highlight the history of the Ukranian American population.
Location:
2249 W Superior St
Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: 312-421-8020
www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org//eng/index.html
Uptown Historical Society
The Society seeks the preservation of the atmosphere and entertainment of one of Chicago's most unique neighborhoods.
Location:
4531 N Dover St
Chicago, IL 60640
http://www.uptownhistoricalsociety.org
V
Villa Park Historical Museum
Features memorabilia from Sears Roebuck mail order houses, from Ovaltine, as well as from the Aurora and Elgin railroads.
Location:
220 S Villa
Villa Park, IL 60181
Phone: 630-941-0223
http://www.vphistoricalsociety.com
Village of Thornton Historical Society
The Society seeks to preserve the history of the village which was settled in 1834 and platted by Gurdon S. Hubbard and James Kinzie. Museum has a large collection of Native American artifacts from the Hoxie Site as well as settler memorabilia including the nation's largest limestone quarry (1838), Bielfeldt Brewery (1857) and a rare 1904 fire wagon. It offers public programs and tours of the Thornton Quarry.
Location:
114 N Hunter St
Thornton, IL 60476
Phone: 708-877-6569
http://www.thornton60476.com/history.html
Vliet Museum of Lake Bluff History
Historical dramatization and walking tours are supported by over 1000 images and documents on the history of the area, including schools, public institutions and census records.
Location:
127 E Scranton Ave
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Phone: 847-482-1571
http://www.lakebluffhistory.org
W
Warren Township Historical Society
The Mother Rudd House, built in 1843 as a stagecoach inn for the underground railroad, has been preserved to display the contents of rooms during the period.
Location:
4690 Old Grand Ave
Gurnee, IL 60031
Phone: 847-263-9540
http://users.ameritech.net/motherrudd/
Warrenville Historical Museum
Located in a 1850s Greek Revival Methodist Church, the Museum includes the paintings of local artists, as well as collection from Native American populations.
Location:
3 S Second St
Warrenville, IL 60555
Phone: 630-393-4215
http://www.warrenville.com/whis/
Wauconda Township Historical Society
Established for the preservation and exhibition of a local 1840s townhouse, and other historic artifacts.
Location:
711 N Main St
Wauconda, IL 60084
Phone: 847-526-6225, ext. 265 (Wauconda Area Public Library)
http://www.waucondaarea.info/Wauconda_Township_Historical_Society.htm
http://www.waucondachamber.org/visitors_center/historical_society.aspx
Waukegan History Museum
Collects and displays items representative of Little Fort Pioneers and Waukegan descendants.
Location:
1917 N Sheridan Rd
Waukegan, IL 60087
Phone: 847-336-1859
http://www.waukeganhistorical.org/museum.html
West Chicago City Museum
The Museum focuses on local history, with a special emphasis on the history of the local railroads, and their impact on the town.
Location:
132 Main St
West Chicago, IL 60185
Phone: 630-231-3376
www.westchicago.org/depts/cultural-museum.php
West Chicago Historical Society/The Kruse House Museum
A 1917 four-square hose museum depicts the lifestyle of a railroad family.
Location:
527 Main St
West Chicago, IL 60185
Phone: 630-231-2329
http://www.krusehousemuseum.org/
Western Springs Historical Society & Museum
The museum is located in the Water Tower on the village green and was listed in The National Register of Historic Places in 1981. The museum houses exhibits, photographs and information relating to the history of Western Springs.
Location:
914 Hillgrove Avenue
Western Springs, IL
Phone: 708-246-9320
https://www.westernspringshistory.org
Wheaton Center for History
The Wheaton Center includes artifacts from the Eastland Disaster, the Civil War, WWII and the Underground Railroad.
Location:
315 W Front St, 2nd Floor
Wheaton, IL 60189
Phone: 630-871-6601
http://www.wheaton.lib.il.us/whc
Wheeling Historical Museum
Strives to keep history alive for posterity.
Location:
251 N Wolf Rd
Wheeling, IL 60090
Phone: 847-459-2600
www.vi.wheeling.il.us/community/History.htm
Will County Historical Society
Changing exhibits to connect people to the rich history of Will County. Located in the former I&M Canal Office.
Location:
803 S. State Street
Lockport, IL 60441
Phone: 815-838-5080
www.willcountyhistory.org
William L. Gregg House Museum
The 1872 four-room house museum depicts the life of a railroad family; maintained by the Westmont Historical Society.
Location:
117 S Linden Ave
Westmont, IL 60559
Phone: 630-960-3392
www.wpd4fun.org/history.htm
Wilmette Historical Museum
Examines and preserves the history of the Wilmette, North Shore and Gross Point areas.
Location:
609 Ridge Rd
Wilmette, IL 60091
Phone: 847-853-7666
http://www.wilmettehistory.org
Winfield Historical Society/Hedges Station
Location:
0N020 County Farm Rd
Winfield, IL 60190
http://www.winfieldhistory.com
Winnetka Historical Society
Educates people on the stories of our past in an effort to enrich our present and inspire our future.
Locations:
Museum: 411 Linden, Winnetka, IL 60093
Schmidt-Burnham Log House (ca. 1837): 1140 Willow, Winnetka, IL
60093
Phone: 847-446-0001
www.winnetkahistory.org
Wood Dale Historical Society
Features a historic 1840's Prairie house, a pegged T-barn, a silo, and a 1920's ten-room farmhouse.
Location:
850 N Wood Dale Rd
PO Box 13
Wood Dale, IL 60191
Phone: 630-595-8777
Worth Historical Museum
A new museum will help maintain the history of the Worth Area, especially focusing on the importance of the region's historic waterways.
Location:
11500 S Beloit Ave
Worth, IL 60482
Phone: 708-448-7080
http://home.comcast.net/~worthmuseum/
Z
Zion Historical Society
A National Historic Site dedicated to the history of Zion, preserved in the homes of the founders, and a collection of artifacts and photographs from their time.
Location:
1300 Shiloh Blvd
Zion, IL 60099
Phone: 847-746-2427
www.zionhs.com/museum.htm