Elgin History Museum

Volunteer Appreciation Lunch
2025-02-15 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St, Elgin, IL, United States
The Museum wants to thank our volunteers for their hard work and dedication.
Save the Date! Event details coming soon.

Capturing the Moment: Nick Freeman Artist Open House
2025-02-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House, 302 W. Chicago, Elgin, IL, 60120, United States
Come enjoy a selection of oil paintings by Elgin fine artist Nick Freeman.

Capturing the Moment showcases Freeman’s life-long interest in bringing to life the people, places and things that embody the fleeting and the timeless.

Free admission. Nick will be at the Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House to answer questions.

The next Open House is scheduled for March 2 from 1pm – 3pm.On view through mid March 2025.

—————————Nick Freeman Artist’s Biography
I’ve been painting for nearly 60 years and hope to start seeing some improvement soon.

I grew up in the Chicago area and eventually found my way to Elgin in 2018. I’m married and have three children.

After high school, I did hard time at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and, despite their best efforts, managed to retain my commitment to representational art and traditional painting methods. Meanwhile, I settled into a long ride as a production director at a prominent Chicago ad agency.

Now, I paint. I enjoy the challenges of landscapes, portraits and scenes of everyday life- a rather eclectic mix.

More of my work is on view at galleryfreeman.com

Elgin Trivia Night FUN-Raiser 2025
2025-01-31 19:00 - 21:30 | Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St, Elgin, IL, United States
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 test your knowledge of all things Elgin while contributing to a meaningful cause. Reserve your spot today, and let the trivia battle begin!

Capturing the Moment - Art Exhibition by Nick Freeman - Opening Reception
2025-01-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House, 302 W. Chicago, Elgin, IL, 60120, United States
Come enjoy a selection of oil paintings by Elgin fine artist Nick Freeman.
Capturing the Moment showcases Freeman’s life-long interest in bringing to life the people, places and things that embody the fleeting and the timeless.
Wine and Cheese will be served. Free event. Donations accepted.
Exhibit will also be open to the public on Sunday, February 9 from 1pm – 3pm and Sunday, March 2 from 1pm – 3pm.
On view through mid March 2025.

Nick Freeman Artist’s Biography
I’ve been painting for nearly 60 years and hope to start seeing some improvement soon.
I grew up in the Chicago area and eventually found my way to Elgin in 2018. I’m married and have three children.
After high school, I did hard time at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and, despite their best efforts, managed to retain my commitment to representational art and traditional painting methods. Meanwhile, I settled into a long ride as a production director at a prominent Chicago ad agency.
Now, I paint. I enjoy the challenges of landscapes, portraits and scenes of everyday life- a rather eclectic mix.
More of my work is on view at galleryfreeman.com

Make LeeWards Style Ornaments at the Museum
2024-12-14 12:00 - 15:00 | Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St, Elgin, IL, United States
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 is best for kids 6 and up to do on their own, younger are welcome with grown up help. Ornaments are ping pong ball size.
Cost to make an ornament is $5. FREE Admission is included in the cost of the activity.

Take Photos with Santa at the Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House
2024-11-23 10:00 - 14:30 | Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House, 302 W. Chicago, Elgin, IL, 60120, United States
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 experience for everyone, from your little ones to furry friends.
Last year, we welcomed all kinds of creative guests—families in matching pajamas, friends raising a toast with holiday brews, and grandparents cradling new babies. It was a lot of fun to see everyone’s unique take on their holiday photos and we cannot wait to see yours!! Bring along your favorite props to make your photos even more unique!
Plus, enjoy a holiday craft activity and light snacks downstairs for a little extra cheer. It’s a wonderful holiday outing for the whole family!
Reserve your 15 minute timeslot for Sunday here.
Click here to reserve for Saturday.
