Due to construction, the Erlander Home Museum will be temporarily closed for tours
Connecting Generations Locally & Globally
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The Swedish Historical Society of Rockford was established in 1938 by a group from Rockford after visiting the 300th anniversary of the arrival of Swedes in North America. This celebration was held in Delaware, where once there was a Swedish colony. The Society was officially formed on January 31, 1939 and incorporated in Illinois as a not-for-profit corporation on November 29, 1950.
The Swedish Historical Society is organized exclusively for historical, educational, and charitable purposes. In harmony with this purpose is the operation of the Erlander Home Museum and Nordic Cultural Center. SHS strives for the preservation of Swedish-American history and Nordic culture of Rockford through such activities as the conservation of artifacts, museum displays and educational programs. |
Beginning in 1852, and peaking around the 1880's, Swedes came to Rockford by the thousands to seek their fortunes. They were part of the mass migration that eventually brought 60 million people to these shores. They reflected in their journeys the hopes and fears of other immigrant groups. They came to escape poverty, to enjoy freedom of expression, to participate in the political process, to worship (or not) and sometimes simply find adventure*.
*excerpt from SwedeTown by John Lundin |
Fall Lectures at the Nordic Cultural Center
Join the Swedish Historical Society for two lectures this fall!
The first, Rockford Furniture Industry takes place on September 20th at 10:00 am. Join us for an intriguing narrative about Rockford for 90 years of excellent furniture production that was the foundation of Rockford’s industrial growth, presented by Roger Benedict. Cost for this lecture is a $5 donation in support of the Erlander Home Museum. THIS LECTURE IS FULLY BOOKED! We will no longer be taking any reservations.
The second, Researching Swedish Family History takes place on October 29th at 1:00 pm. Join us on a deep dive into researching your Swedish Family History with Maureen Brady. Swedish records provide a rich resource for identifying your Swedish ancestors. Cost for this lecture is a $10 donation in support of the Erlander Home Museum.
Both events take place in-person at the Nordic Cultural Center, located at 327 S. 3rd St, Rockford, IL. Call 815-963-5559 to RSVP or email [email protected] for one or both lectures.
The first, Rockford Furniture Industry takes place on September 20th at 10:00 am. Join us for an intriguing narrative about Rockford for 90 years of excellent furniture production that was the foundation of Rockford’s industrial growth, presented by Roger Benedict. Cost for this lecture is a $5 donation in support of the Erlander Home Museum. THIS LECTURE IS FULLY BOOKED! We will no longer be taking any reservations.
The second, Researching Swedish Family History takes place on October 29th at 1:00 pm. Join us on a deep dive into researching your Swedish Family History with Maureen Brady. Swedish records provide a rich resource for identifying your Swedish ancestors. Cost for this lecture is a $10 donation in support of the Erlander Home Museum.
Both events take place in-person at the Nordic Cultural Center, located at 327 S. 3rd St, Rockford, IL. Call 815-963-5559 to RSVP or email [email protected] for one or both lectures.
Swedish Dala Horse Painting Class Oct 1st at 5:00 PM
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Join local artist and Dala Horse painter Jenny Mathews,
to practice Swedish Dala horse painting. The class will take place at the Nordic Cultural Center, located at 327 S. 3rd Street, Rockford, IL 61104. We'll be doing acrylic on 2-d wooden Dala horses, practicing the basics of kurbits and Dala shapes. All Materials included, 90 minute class. Class is limited to 10 people maximum. Class is $50 per Member, $60 per Non Member Call 815-963-5559 to reserve or get tickets online here |
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Want to know more?
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BECOME A MEMBERJoin in on the fun and connect with your Swedish heritage and the history of our city!
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COME FOR A VISITLet our knowledgeable docents take you through the museum as they guide you into Rockford's Swedish culture and past .
Book a tour today! |
RESERVE TICKETSLooking to reserve a place for that next great event?
Purchase tickets here! |