COMING UP NEXT

Group Field Trip
Bishop Hill Heritage Association
on Saturday, July 25, 2026 

BISHOP HILL FIELD TRIP 

Sponsor:  Swedish Historical Society of Rockford

Date and Time: Saturday, July 25, 2026; 8:00am — approx. 5:00pm

Destination:  Bishop Hill Colony, Illinois, first Swedish settlement in Illinois

Summary of the day:  Tour will begin at approximately 10:15 upon arrival at Bishop Hill.  Guided walking tour of the village begins after a short introductory video.  The length of the guided tour depends on the interests of the group.  Upon completion of the guided tour, participants may have lunch, shop or further explore sites in the village.  There are many opportunities for great photography!  Departure from Bishop Hill will be no later than 3:00pm.  Arrival back in Rockford will be around 5:00pm.

Skill level: Must be able to walk on uneven ground, including standing and stair climbing.

Ages: Suitable for ages 12+ (due to distance travelled)

​Cost: $75 SHS members, $85 non-members.  Includes
transportation, guide and admission (lunch is not included.)
Lunch:    Lunch on your own in the former hardware store on the square.  Reservations have been made at P.L. Johnson’s so they are expecting us. (Participants do not need to all eat at the same time.)  Menu prices range from $15 to $18, yummy desserts are additional.  See the specialties on the menu at pljohnsons.com     
Tour drivers: Karen and April Bieschke (Karen 815-222-9543cell)
• Meet at: 6130 Guilford Road (just east of Mulford Road) go down long, tree lined driveway and park by the 4-car garage
Other info:
▪ Tour goes rain or shine (umbrellas permitted)
▪ Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, bring water (if you want)
▪ Bring camera or cell phone – photos allowed and encouraged
• Questions? Call Amy at SHS 815-963-5559
• Need to cancel? Cancellations made within 30 days of a program are subject to a $10 cancellation fee, within 10 days of a program are non-refundable (Notify Amy at the number above)
Want more information?
Bishop Hill:  https://bishophillheritage.org/about/history/   They post cool things frequently on Facebook too! 
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Lecture
Life Balance and the Swedish Philosophy of Lagom
by Janice Peterson Hincapie

When planning a trip to Sweden for the first time in 2023, Jan became interested in Lagom, a life philosophy taught to many Swedes early in life. This fell in line with over a decade of research regarding life balance, a concern for so many individuals in the US. Lagom is rooted in harmony, moderation, and sustainability. The mantra she frequently heard was “Not too much, not too little, just right!” During her time in Sweden, Jan interviewed individuals about what Lagom meant to them and observed it firsthand. She will discuss how incorporating Lagom into our lives as Americans can lead to a happier, more productive existence, improved relationships, and greater joy in all we do.
 
Lecture hosted by: Swedish Historical Society
Where? The Nordic Cultural Center-327 S. 3rd Street, Rockford, IL
When? Saturday, August 8th at 10:00am
Cost? Members $5.00/Non-Members $10.00
Pay cash or check at the door
Seats are limited – RSVP by 8/7/2026


Reserve your spot!
Call 815-963-5559 or email [email protected]