The Lords Park Zoo opened in 1895 and was once home to bears, snakes, and even a lion!  Come visit the modern Tefft Farm Zoo inside Lords Park and make crafts to help remember the past residents of the zoo. Best for ages 3-8.

The impact of World War 2 and D-Day on Elgin citizens both at home and abroad is re-told through newspaper clippings and photos from 80 years ago. FREE for Members / $5 for Guests. Please register:

Roadmaps: Meg Jordan, Kelly Ann Cunningham, Beizar Aradini, Nick Cartwright and Martha LazarskiSunday August 18th, Reception 5-7pm Side Street Studio Artis pleased to present Roadmaps by Meg Jordan, Kelly Ann Cunningham, Nick Cartwright, and Martha Lazarski. Roadmaps is an art exhibition in two parts that aims to foster connections between the emerging artists in the […]

Elginites from all neighborhoods and those with Elgin stories to tell are invited! At this luncheon and community gathering participants will engage in storytelling, conversation, and map rendering. Maps of Elgin will serve as a catalyst for discourse and activities centered around change, memories, and identifying landmarks in our town which hold meaning. Going Dutch […]

Preserving Your Neighborhood is a new exhibit series at the Elgin History Museum. Help celebrate the exhibit opening with information about the Elgin National Watch Historic District. The neighborhood has been a historic district for almost 30 years! Debra Vruble and Carly Gorick from the neighborhood association will give a short introduction and history of the […]

This presentation includes a review of the laws and trends regarding immigration to the United States from the time of the Founding Fathers to the late 20th century. Special emphasis will be placed on the presenter’s dissertation topic: immigration from Northern Mexico to South Texas during World War I and slightly beyond. Presented by Edward […]

Learn the rich history of Elgin’s beloved musical ensemble, from its beginning as a community orchestra to its current status as an award-winning professional orchestra that builds community with the power of music.

SAVE THE DATE! Every year in September, the Museum hosts the Cemetery Walk at the majestic Bluff City Cemetery. Visitors will be guided on a 70-minute tour that showcases gravesites of former residents portrayed by actors in period costumes. Volunteers at the Elgin History Museum organize this much anticipated event that attracts hundreds of people […]

SAVE THE DATE! Every year in September, the Museum hosts the Cemetery Walk at the majestic Bluff City Cemetery. Visitors will be guided on a 70-minute tour that showcases gravesites of former residents portrayed by actors in period costumes. Volunteers at the Elgin History Museum organize this much anticipated event that attracts hundreds of people […]