Overview
Linda Rock Lectures
Linda provides a number of programs on topics including Elgin women, Elgin candy manufacturers, Tupperware, artist Jane Peterson, women’s and men’s hats through the years, Elgin American compacts, aprons, Elgin’s women educators, past times of yesteryear in Elgin, Elgin Christmas Memories and Elgin advertising. Please see Linda’s biography for a complete description of these programs.
Bill Briska Lectures
Bill provides a number of programs on topics including the Elgin National Watch Company and Elgin Mental Health Center, Please see Bill’s biography for a complete description of these programs. In the event that Bill is not available, his program may be provided by another qualified speaker.
Jerry Turnquist Lectures
Jerry provides a number of programs on topics including Elgin women, the 1917 Elgin Plan, Elgin in in the 1930s and 1950s, the impact of WWI or WWII on Elgin, Elgin and Prohibition, and the 1925 Miss Elgin Contest. Please see Jerry’s biography for a complete description of these programs. In the event that Jerry is not available, his program may be provided by another qualified speaker.
Al Walters Lectures
Al provides programs on the Elgin’s Walton Island and the Elgin Road Races. Please see Al’s biography for a complete description of these programs.
Dairies to Prairies: The Land Has a Story to Tell
A nearly forgotten story about Elgin’s first wealth, the dairy industry, and how land use and agriculture are changing rapidly in Kane County.
Project 2-3-1: A Story of Elgin’s African American History
Elgin’s African American history from the arrival of 110 formerly enslaved men, women and children in 1862 to the present day.
Lords Park Zoo
Learn about Elgin’s oldest and largest park and the Zoo’s beginning, how it has changed, stories of how the animals came to reside there and antics of both animal and human.
A History of Things Made in Elgin
From toasters to street sweepers to windmills to coffee grinders and butter, Elgin has a long and successful history of manufacturing. Objects and images bring back past companies, products and the people that made things we needed.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Walk through the Elgin Area Historical Museum and discover how the exhibits were created, interesting artifacts, and the thousands of items in storage. Program offered at the Museum only.
More Than Just an Address
Images of Elgin homes and businesses illustrate different time periods and architectural styles. Hear the stories of Elgin through its buildings. A walking tour is also available.
Bus Guides
Step-on guides to take your bus group through Elgin’s historic districts, downtown, or cemeteries, showcasing local people and places.
Booking arrangements for all speakers are made through the Elgin History Museum.
Please email museum@elginhistory.org or call 847-742-4248 to learn more.
All programs are $150 per speaker, discount available for programs presented at the Museum.
Programs are prepared for a 30-60 minute presentation, depending on the request of the group. A question and answer time with sharing follows each presentation. Audio Visual and set up requirements for each presentation vary and options are always available to fit any audience.