​Connecting Generations Locally & Globally 

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

Lucia Concert at First Lutheran Church
December 1st   at  7:00 PM 

Our traditional all Swedish St. Lucia concert will take place on Friday, December 1st at 7:00 PM at First Lutheran Church, located at 225 S. Third Street.

This annual event brings the holiday spirit with traditional Swedish songs and candlelit processional.  A good will donation will be taken for this event to help keep the tradition going!  Visit the Lucia page for additional details.

Click here to make a donation to support the Lucia program !

Julmarknad at Our Savior's Lutheran Church 
December 2nd    9:00 AM- 1:00 PM

Swedish Historical Society would like to invite you back to our annual Julmarknad Christmas Market!
 
Throughout the entire day you can shop the Marknad with vendors of all kinds. There is Swedish wood working, textile and embroidery items, Scandinavian clothing and gifts, and so much more! Swedish bakery and handmade crafts will also be available for purchase. 

MorMor's Attic will feature unique Swedish holiday items, antiques and more! Our pancake breakfast will return with Swedish pancakes, lingonberries and sausages from Stockholm Inn. No registration required!

Families can join in two story times around the Christmas tree, one at 9:30 am with the story of the Tomten and the second at 11:00 am for a story about Lucia.
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Visit the Julmarknad page for more details.

Want to know more?

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BECOME A MEMBER

Join in on the fun and connect with your Swedish heritage and the history of our city!

COME FOR A VISIT

Let our  knowledgeable docents take you through the museum as they guide you into Rockford's Swedish culture and past . 
​Book a tour today! 

RESERVE TICKETS

Looking to reserve a place for that next great event?
​Purchase tickets here!