​Connecting Generations Locally & 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.

Midsommar Fest 
June 15th  10:00 am-3:00 pm   
ABBA concert from 7:00 - 9:00pm 
Save the date for this fun annual event and come celebrate the longest day of the year with your Nordic friends!  The traditional Swedish festival welcomes the arrival of the  summer solstice!
The event will feature maypole dancing at 12:00 pm,  Swedish folk music and shopping at MorMor's Attic. Swedish food will be available at the Stockholm Inn pavilion and the SHS booth. A children’s area will have crafts, face painting, storytelling, and games. Daytime admission is free! 

The evening program, Midsommar Natt, will feature live music   performed by ABBA Tribute Band.  The concert takes place at Veteran’s Memorial Hall located at 211 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61101 . Enjoy food and beverages served by Prairie Street Brewhouse!  Cost of tickets are $15 per person in advance/ $20 at the door. Children 10 and under are free.
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Purchase tickets for the concert on the Midsommar page. 

Attention Parents!

SHS is excited to announce the return of Camp Sweden!
For two weeks this summer, have your child experience an immersion program in Swedish language, culture and so much more! This year the week have been broken down into two groups. July 15-18th Grades (k-2) & July 22-26th Grades (3-5) from 9:00 am -1: 00 pm at the Nordic Cultural Center.

​Cost of Camp Sweden is $100 for Swedish Historical Society members and $125 for non-members. Please reserve your spots early, as space is limited per week! Visit the Camp Sweden page to register. 

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!