Connecting Generations Locally & Globally
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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 |
Night at the Range 2024
Join the Swedish Historical Society for a family friendly “ Night at the Range” at Golf Shack, located at 1631 N Bell School Rd Rockford, IL 61107 and in partnership with Garrett's on September 13th from 5:00 PM-8:00 PM.
Enjoy drinks and appetizers by Garrett's as you hit a bucket of balls in support of your Scandinavian friends!
For the past 50 years, Golf Shack has been a must for golfers in N. Illinois and S. Wisconsin and Garrett’s Restaurant award-winning is perfect for spending time with family and friends. All ages are welcome and any level golfer is encouraged to join!
All details available on the Night at the Range page!
Enjoy drinks and appetizers by Garrett's as you hit a bucket of balls in support of your Scandinavian friends!
For the past 50 years, Golf Shack has been a must for golfers in N. Illinois and S. Wisconsin and Garrett’s Restaurant award-winning is perfect for spending time with family and friends. All ages are welcome and any level golfer is encouraged to join!
All details available on the Night at the Range page!
Erlander Home Weekly Tours - Wednesdays
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The Erlander Home Museum is now open for tours weekly on Wednesdays and also by appointment. Starting May 8th through September 25th, the Museum holds two tours, at 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. For a full list of tour times, please visit the Events page.
All tours are guided and begin at the Nordic Cultural Center. Cost of admission is $7 for non-members. Admission is free for members and children 4 and under. Call 815-963-5559 to reserve your tour or email [email protected]. |
Please allow one week advanced notice time for requesting additional tour times, as tours are subject to volunteer and/or staff availability. The Erlander Home is currently not handicapped accessible.
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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 .
Book a tour today! |
RESERVE TICKETSLooking to reserve a place for that next great event?
Purchase tickets here! |