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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, which was once 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.
One of the current and major initiatives
of the Society today is the construction a new Cultural Center, to be located across the
street from the Erlander Home Museum. This center will increase the ability to host international
guests and activities that promote cultural peace and cooperation and as place to conduct educational
programs.
The Society offers through its Swedish
speaking members, Swedish translation services and Swedish language instruction to help those
wishing to travel to Sweden or to communicate with Swedish friends and relatives by phone or
in writing. Contact the Executive Director for more information on these services and watch this
web site for announcements for Swedish language classes.
The Swedish Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization within
the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954.
The Erlander Home Museum operations are funded through entrance
fees, membership dues gift shop sales and generous contributions by its members.
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