​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 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 Museum and Nordic Cultural Center closure extended to April 7th 

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On Friday, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a stay-at-home order taking effect 5 p.m., Saturday, March 21, through April 7 for all of Illinois. His executive order lays out three main directives:
  • * Stay at home, except for essential activities
  • * Non-essential business and operations must cease
  • *All gatherings of more than 10 people are banned
With these directives and orders in mind, The Swedish Historical Society Board of Directors and staff believe that we should extend our closure as well until April 7th and pending further instruction from our state & local officials. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this time.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will update the community on a re-open date as more information becomes available. If you have any questions, please contact the museum at museum@swedishhistorical.org or call 815-963-5559.

2020 Calendar Announced!
Mark your calendars for these annual events happening in 2020!
  • Annual Meeting: TBA
  • ​Midsommar : June 20th, 2020
  • Crayfish Party: September 12th, 2020
  • Lucia:  December 4th, 2020
  • Julmarknad:  December 5th, 2020
  • Glögg & Pepperkakor:  December 9th, 2020
All dates and times are  subject to change, so check back in the new year for more details and updates

Want to know more?

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