Connecting Generations Locally & Globally
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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 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. |
Cancellation of Midsommar and remaining 2020 events
During these uncertain times, the Swedish Historical Society Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to cancel the Midsommar 2020 festival due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The first and primary thought in this decision is the health and safety of guests, participants and volunteers attending the festival.
“While this decision was difficult, we felt that the safety of our visitors, volunteers and participants always takes precedence,” said Alix Fox, Executive Director of Swedish Historical Society. “We understand that Midsommar is a historic and beloved family-focused celebration in Rockford, and we choose to remain optimistic for the day that we will be able to safely celebrate again.”
During the upcoming weeks, Swedish Historical Society will be working collaboratively with other Swedish institutions on creatively to extending resources and offering tips on how to celebrate Midsommar at home. Look for more information on the Midsommar page and the Society's Facebook page.
The Swedish Historical Society is also mindful that there continue to be various challenges brought on by the pandemic. The guidelines set forth by state and local governments addressing continued public health safety concerns and efforts keep appropriate social distancing have created difficulties for staff, volunteers and visitors to the Erlander Museum and Nordic Cultural Center. The ever-changing cycle of information and moving timelines have made event planning and preparation extremely difficult. With these concerns in mind, this also brings with it the additional decision to cancel the remaining tours and events of 2020.
We are extremely grateful with the unwavering support and take comfort in knowing that the Swedish Historical Society has value and meaning to so many.
Tack så hemskt mycket! Thank you so very much!
“While this decision was difficult, we felt that the safety of our visitors, volunteers and participants always takes precedence,” said Alix Fox, Executive Director of Swedish Historical Society. “We understand that Midsommar is a historic and beloved family-focused celebration in Rockford, and we choose to remain optimistic for the day that we will be able to safely celebrate again.”
During the upcoming weeks, Swedish Historical Society will be working collaboratively with other Swedish institutions on creatively to extending resources and offering tips on how to celebrate Midsommar at home. Look for more information on the Midsommar page and the Society's Facebook page.
The Swedish Historical Society is also mindful that there continue to be various challenges brought on by the pandemic. The guidelines set forth by state and local governments addressing continued public health safety concerns and efforts keep appropriate social distancing have created difficulties for staff, volunteers and visitors to the Erlander Museum and Nordic Cultural Center. The ever-changing cycle of information and moving timelines have made event planning and preparation extremely difficult. With these concerns in mind, this also brings with it the additional decision to cancel the remaining tours and events of 2020.
We are extremely grateful with the unwavering support and take comfort in knowing that the Swedish Historical Society has value and meaning to so many.
Tack så hemskt mycket! Thank you so very much!
Why Museums Matter in a Pandemic and How to Support Them
As museums and cultural institutions around the world deal with the impacts of COVID-19, many of us have had to radically alter our way of “doing business”, drastically changing hours of availability, canceling events and educational opportunities. Unfortunately, some have even had to implement aspects of their emergency plans to respond to this ever-changing situation.
Museums and historical sites are held as secure and treasured locations that protect the art, artifacts, records, photographs and books they hold in trust. Museums and historic sites hold a multitude of roles from being stewards of our history and institutions of learning to also be the protectors of our collective memory. Museums act as inspirations of beauty, architecture, memories and stand in our communities as a place of a shared identity and legacy.
In his book, Why Old Places Matter, Tom Hayes says this about old places and historic sites:
“…[O]ld places…serve as reference points for measuring, refreshing, and re-calibrating our identity over time. They are literally the landmarks of our identity... Old places help us remember. Old places… trigger memories people already have, give specificity to memories, and arouse curiosity about memories people don’t yet know.”
Museums are community anchors, addressing challenges in times of crisis like the one we are currently experiencing. Unfortunately, we expect financial hardships to be faced in the months ahead, underscoring the need for support now.
Consider supporting the Swedish Historical Society by renewing your membership, gifting a membership or giving a gift of $50, $100 or more during this crisis season and help to support our mission of celebrating Swedish culture past, present and future!
Museums and historical sites are held as secure and treasured locations that protect the art, artifacts, records, photographs and books they hold in trust. Museums and historic sites hold a multitude of roles from being stewards of our history and institutions of learning to also be the protectors of our collective memory. Museums act as inspirations of beauty, architecture, memories and stand in our communities as a place of a shared identity and legacy.
In his book, Why Old Places Matter, Tom Hayes says this about old places and historic sites:
“…[O]ld places…serve as reference points for measuring, refreshing, and re-calibrating our identity over time. They are literally the landmarks of our identity... Old places help us remember. Old places… trigger memories people already have, give specificity to memories, and arouse curiosity about memories people don’t yet know.”
Museums are community anchors, addressing challenges in times of crisis like the one we are currently experiencing. Unfortunately, we expect financial hardships to be faced in the months ahead, underscoring the need for support now.
Consider supporting the Swedish Historical Society by renewing your membership, gifting a membership or giving a gift of $50, $100 or more during this crisis season and help to support our mission of celebrating Swedish culture past, present and future!
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 .
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