​Connecting Generations Locally and 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.

Upcoming Events 

September 21st, 2018 
Reception at 5:30 pm at Nordic Cultural Center                    Concert at 7:00 pm at JustGoods ​
At 7:00pm on Friday, September 21st at 201 7th St, JustGoods and the Swedish Historical Society of Rockford will co-host a concert by internationally-acclaimed Swedish musician Sofia Talvik. A reception will precede the concert at 5:30pm at the Nordic Cultural Center, 327 S 3rd Street, Rockford, IL. Reception attendees will have an opportunity to meet Sofia and learn about her music. A $5 cash donation at the reception is encouraged to help the Historical Society pay for food and expenses related to the reception. Reception attendees will proceed from the Nordic Center to JustGoods at 6:15pm, to ensure good seating at JustGoods.
 ​Excellent acoustics, generous audiences, and diligent volunteers have made the Listening Room at JustGoods, 201 Seventh St, Rockford, a favorite location for singer-songwriters and concert musicians from across the country.
 Performances occur at 7pm every Friday from mid-September through mid-May. Local and area artists are well represented among the nationally-recognized luminaries. There is never a cover charge, but audience members are encouraged to make generous donations to the musicians and to purchase their CDs and books. Light refreshments are typically available. Seating is limited, and listeners are encouraged to arrive early; doors open at 6:30pm. The First Avenue parking lot adjacent to the JustGoods west entrance provides easy, all-on-one-floor access.
 
Click here to view concert information :https://www.facebook.com/events/2095235160749495/ ​​

Announcements 

​Kräftskiva  2018


​Thank you for all those that attended the 2018 Crayfish party! The weather was perfect, the food delicious and the singing marvelous! 
Thank you again to our sponsors, Richard & Phyllis Brynteson, Artale co. and Rockford Roasting Company!
See everyone next year! 

Want to know more?

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