​Connecting Generations Locally and Globally 

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
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 the preservation of Swedish-American history and culture of Rockford through such activities as the conservation of artifacts, museum displays and educational programs.

Searching for a chance to meet your Swedish relatives?

​​Meter Television are searching for Americans with Swedish ancestry for a reality TV-show. We are now proud to have produced the Emmy Award winning season 5 TV-serie Allt för Sverige - Great Swedish Adventure (The American title of the show) - we have also won Kristallen - the Swedish version of the Golden Globe.
The Producers of the Swedish version of “American Idol” and “Minute to win it” are coming to the U.S. to find fun, outgoing Americans with Swedish ancestry to participate in their new reality television series “Allt för Sverige”
Americans will travel to Sweden and participate in an exciting reality television series. Showcasing everyday Americans as they journey throughout Sweden to discover their land, roots and cultural heritage.💛📣
Meter Television is conducting a nationwide search for fun, outgoing and adventurous Americans with Swedish ancestry (even a little bit counts), with a burning desire to find their roots and see their motherland. Chosen participants will compete in extreme cultural challenges to discover their rich and fascinating roots while trying to win the grand prize; MEETING THEIR SWEDISH RELATIVES.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to discover a new land and culture and have a chance to win a spectacular prize. Meter Television is paying for travel expenses and boarding during the filming period.
For more information - please contact LA office casting producer Sofia Eng at ph:(310) -500 8350 mail: sofia.eng@meter.tv

Applications are due by January 20th, 2019! 🇸🇪️​

Announcements 

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2019 Calendar Dates Announced! 
Mark your calendars for Swedish Historical Events in 2019! 
Visit our Events page for more details.
​Events will be popping up on the calendar throughout the year, so please  stay connected through our Facebook page or our website at www.swedishhistorical.org. If you have questions, feel free to leave a message at 815-963-5559 or email museum@swedishhistorical.org 

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!