The annual Bluff City Cemetery Walk in Elgin has been a tradition since 1987. It is organized by volunteers and staff of the Elgin History Museum. The event attracts hundreds of people to enjoy an outdoor theatrical performance and the beauty of the Bluff City Cemetery grounds. The event also seeks to educate people about […]

In person event / FREE for Members / $5 for guests Annual Meeting portion includes the election of officers and short reports on the health of the Museum. It should last about 20 minutes. Enjoy a costumed interpretation of famous stand up comedienne Phyllis Diller by Ellie Carlson of Ellie Presents. Phyllis was America’s first […]

BACK FOR 2025!  Step into the historic Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House, where holiday magic awaits. It’s the perfect setting for your festive photos! Book a 15-minute time block and bring your own camera to take photos however you like. Santa will be there, ready to make every moment special—he’s pet-friendly and sensory-friendly, ensuring a comfortable […]

BACK FOR 2025!  Step into the historic Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House, where holiday magic awaits. It’s the perfect setting for your festive photos! Book a 15-minute time block and bring your own camera to take photos however you like. Santa will be there, ready to make every moment special—he’s pet-friendly and sensory-friendly, ensuring a comfortable […]

Shop With Purpose on Museum Store Sunday, November 30, 2025. Online only. Shop now: https://elginhistory.org/shop/ Looking for the perfect Elgin-inspired gift? Our Museum Store is the only place to find unique Elgin merchandise you won’t see anywhere else. Shop online this Museum Store Sunday and receive a free sticker or postcard with purchase! Our gift shop […]

Discover the beauty of fused glass at Kiln-Formed Glass: An Artist’s Medium, featuring the work of local artist Hans Klemmer, owner of Prairie Street Studios in Elgin. Each piece reflects a stunning interplay of color, texture, and light — perfect for brightening your home or giving as a one-of-a-kind holiday gift. Join us for the […]

Celebrate the season with an afternoon of elegant music, sweets, and celebration! This year’s “Merry & Bright” program features soprano Kathleen Monson and friends performing beloved Christmas songs with a classical twist—an elegant and festive concert that’s sure to delight. Enjoy a generous spread of sweet and savory treats prepared by our amazing Museum volunteers. […]

An Elgin Christmas tree is not complete without an ornament from LeeWards! For decades LeeWards sold craft supplies and decorations from their flagship store on State Street and in catalogs sent around the world. Bring the kids to the museum between 12-3pm to make your own LeeWards style sequin ornament to take home. This activity […]

Gather your friends, form a team, and join us for a night of fun, learning, and friendly competition. You'll learn fascinating facts and discover new tidbits about a wide range of Elgin related topics, all while having a blast with your teammates. The Elgin History Museum's Trivia Night FUN Raiser is a fantastic opportunity to […]