Local history lives on in a quaint home built in 1850 and known today as The Ethnic Heritage Museum . Here, you will find six fascinating galleries devoted to the primary immigrant groups that settled in southwest Rockford, IL. African-American, Hispanic, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian and Polish.

Through displays of early Rockford's maps, everyday artifacts, vintage clothing and more, visitors of all ages can learn about Old Worldcustoms and traditions. Historical photographs tell the stories of the earliest settlers who established factories near the old "waterpower district" and built their homes nearby. By comparing early with current lifestyles, the museum strives to bridge the gap between yesterday and today ... encouraging visitors to relive the past with a clear focus on Rockford'sbright future.

Tours may be scheduled during the week.

Call 815-962-7402

African American Gallery –Stop by to see the picture of Lewis Lemon.  He purchased his freedom by agreement from Germanicus Kentin 1834. Lewis Lemon School is named for this man.  A special Black History exhibit with artifacts on African American Life post-Civil War will run during months of February and March.   See African American Gallery page for more details.

Irish Gallery – This stone carved Nativity Set is representative of the prehistoric stone carvings found in many places in Ireland. Irish customs have their root in the time when the Gaelic Culture and religion of the country were being suppressed.  Perhaps due to that, the customs have survived into modern times.  A visitor to this gallery will see Waterford Crystal and Belleek Pottery.

Italian Gallery –

The Maffioli family were the first Italians to settle in Rockford. They came here from Northern Italy in 1875. The Maffiolis’ contracted to build the Old Post Office. The Post Office was where the Rockford Park District Building is today on the corner of Green and So Main St. See pictures of this Romanesque style building at our museum. Succeeding years more friends of these families came and settled here from Italy. Later, Sicilian Italians settled in Southwest Rockford. Stop and see the We the People book and large map showing the early Italian family settlements

Lithuanian Gallery -   Come and see a number of Amber (a type of resin plentiful in Lithuania ) items in different colors, not just gold. See miniature wood carved shrines which are representative of Lithuania. In the thirties and forties there were groups of Lithuanian businesses along Rockford’s South Main Corridor. The Lithuanian Cultural Society, which is now the Lithuanian Club, was at one time located just north of the Ethnic Heritage Museum. Hand woven sashes a must see in this gallery also.

Hispanic Gallery – This Gallery offers authentic costumes from several Hispanic countries. Observers can view the beautiful “Hats” tapestry from Nicaragua donated by Mercedes Dewey, daughter of Constance Miller, a former Rockfordian. There are many artifacts from Spain, Costa Rica and Rockford area artists. There are always seasonal changes within the gallery. This galley offers a special treat to visit and enjoy the beautiful art work and vibrant tapestries.   

Polish Gallery - Stop by to see an amazing colorful print of  Casimir Pulaski, a Polish hero and Father of the American Colony in the Revolutionary War. This picture shows him shot during the “Battle of Savannah.”  There is also information on Thaddeus Kosciuszko, who fought to defend West Point during the Revolutionary War. A visitor can view a portrait of  world famous pianist Ignace Jan Paderewski. Displays reveal woodworking artifacts, crystal ware, straw artistry, egg decorating, and paper cutting art work.  

Join us in the mission to "build our future from our past." Exciting building plans ahead!

Ethnic Heritage Museum

1129 S Main St

Rockford, IL

(815) 962-7402

Ethnic Heritage Museum P.O. Box 382,Rockford, Il 61105

Hours Sundays 2:00 - 4:00 pm

Group tours arranged throughout the week upon

request

Admission: Adults $3:00 Children $1.00 (12 and under)

School groups