​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 Practice begins!

We are excited to be returning to traditions and are  welcoming children ages 5 and up to participate in this year’s program!

​ Practices begin October 9th at First Covenant Church, located at 316 Wood Rd, Rockford, IL 61107. Practices will be held weekly at 2:00 PM on Sundays.

 If you have any questions, please feel free to call 815-963-5559 or email museum@swedishhistorical.org.

Fall ArtScene: Celebrating 100 years of the Dala Horse​

 October 14th-15th   5:00 to 9:00pm- ArtScene
 October 16th  1:00 to 3:00pm - FIKA & Meet the Artists

 Swedish Historical Society celebrates 100 years of the Dala Horse through Scandinavian-inspired art.
In partnership with Grannas-Olsson, the oldest horse manufacturer in Sweden and local artists Sarah Reed McNamara, Kari McDonald, Jenny Mathews and Emily Klonicki  in Historic Haight Village!

New and old! All the arts- painting, carving, block printing, photography and music. A show and sale for all ages!
On Sunday, join us for a fika to meet with the artists! 

For more information on ArtScene, visit: ​https://artsforeveryone.com/artscene/

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!