The Erlander Home Museum and Nordic Cultural Center offices will be closed October 14th- 25th, 2021.
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. |
Erlander 150th Anniversary Campaign- help us reach our goal!
Over the past eight months, funds have been raised to undertake needed maintenance at the Erlander Home Museum. Under the direction of Building and Grounds Chairman Chuck Anderson, the following projects have been completed: replacement of exterior stairs and railings at the main entrance; tuckpointing of the brick border and in the brick wall on the south side of the building; power washing the exterior and painting the front porch. Another large project included removing and replacing aging plants in front of the Erlander Home. Landscaping behind the building will be undertaken next spring.
It was determined that the wooden fencing around the back yard was beyond repair, and the Committee recommended replacing it with an ornamental metal fence. Permission was obtained from the Rockford Historical Commission, the work was contracted, and the fence will be replaced sometime in October. Work to date totals just over $16,000, which has been raised from the SHS membership and from Mormor’s sales. An additional $4,000 is needed to fully fund the fence, and more funds will be needed for the landscaping work next spring. We would like to say a big thank you to all who have assisted in the funding of this project!
If you have would like to help us reach our $20,000 goal to help complete the 150th Anniversary Campaign, you can contact the office at 963-5559 or donations may be made below- and, as always, your contribution is tax deductible
Your donation can truly make a difference!
It was determined that the wooden fencing around the back yard was beyond repair, and the Committee recommended replacing it with an ornamental metal fence. Permission was obtained from the Rockford Historical Commission, the work was contracted, and the fence will be replaced sometime in October. Work to date totals just over $16,000, which has been raised from the SHS membership and from Mormor’s sales. An additional $4,000 is needed to fully fund the fence, and more funds will be needed for the landscaping work next spring. We would like to say a big thank you to all who have assisted in the funding of this project!
If you have would like to help us reach our $20,000 goal to help complete the 150th Anniversary Campaign, you can contact the office at 963-5559 or donations may be made below- and, as always, your contribution is tax deductible
Your donation can truly make a difference!
Fika with a Swede via Zoom
The Swedish Historical Society is happy to host our virtual "Fika with a Swede" monthly. In times when travel is limited we are bringing Sweden to Rockford. The fika is open to anyone and we welcome our American & Swedish business & cultural friends regionally and in Sweden to partake in.
The fika is set up as a live interview (moderated by our Swedish Ambassador Linnea Bengtsson).
The "Fika Swede" will share who they are, their work & connection to Rockford and one sentence in Swedish.
To watch previous fikas, click here to visit the Fika page.
The fika is set up as a live interview (moderated by our Swedish Ambassador Linnea Bengtsson).
The "Fika Swede" will share who they are, their work & connection to Rockford and one sentence in Swedish.
To watch previous fikas, click here to visit the Fika page.
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! |