Northbrook History Museum - Northbrook, Illinois

Introduction

The Northbrook History Museum, nestled at 1776 Walters Ave, Northbrook, IL 60062, United States, is a treasure trove of local history, offering a unique glimpse into the past through its exhibits, programs, and tours. This historic site is a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike, providing an enriching and educational experience that is free and accessible to all.

Main Services

• Museum Exhibits: The museum hosts a variety of exhibits that showcase the rich history of Northbrook and its surrounding areas. These displays include artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the community's growth and development over time.
• Educational Programs: The Northbrook History Museum offers a range of educational programs for children and adults, including school programs, workshops, and lectures. These programs aim to engage and inform participants about local history and its significance.
• Tours: Guided tours of the museum and its grounds are available, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the history of the area. Tours can be tailored to specific groups or interests, making them an ideal option for school field trips, family outings, or community groups.
• Thrift Store: In addition to its historical offerings, the museum also operates a thrift store on-site. The thrift store sells a variety of items, including clothing, books, and household goods, with proceeds supporting the museum's operations and programming.
• Virtual Tours (coming soon!): The Northbrook History Museum is currently developing virtual tours that will allow visitors to explore the museum's exhibits and grounds from the comfort of their own homes. This innovative service will make the museum's offerings more accessible than ever before.

Location and Access

The Northbrook History Museum is conveniently located in the heart of Northbrook, just off the Edens Expressway (I-94) and Willow Road. The museum is easily accessible by car, with free on-site parking available. Public transportation is also an option, with the museum located just a short walk from the Edens Expressway CTA Blue Line station.

Upon arrival, visitors will find wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, and toilet facilities, ensuring that the museum is accessible to all. Additionally, the museum's grounds include a peaceful and picturesque courtyard, perfect for enjoying a quiet moment or picnic lunch.

Featured Characteristics

• Historic Buildings: The Northbrook History Museum is housed in two historic buildings: the Northfield Inn and the Heritage Center. The Northfield Inn, built in 1888, is a beautifully restored Victorian-era inn that offers a glimpse into life in the late 19th century. The Heritage Center, constructed in 1912, served as the Northbrook post office and later as a private residence before being purchased by the Northbrook Historical Society.
• Gift Shop: The museum features a gift shop that sells a variety of items related to local history, including books, prints, and souvenirs. The gift shop is the perfect place to find a unique memento or gift to commemorate your visit.
• Research Library: The Northbrook History Museum is home to a research library that contains a wealth of information about the history of Northbrook and its surrounding areas. The library is open to the public and staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who are eager to assist researchers in their quest for historical knowledge.

Practical Information

The Northbrook History Museum is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Sunday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Admission is free, making the museum an affordable and accessible destination for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

For the latest information about exhibits, programs, and events at the Northbrook History Museum, be sure to follow the museum on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The museum's website, northbrookhistory.org, also provides a wealth of information about the museum's offerings and history.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

• Impressive Collection: Many reviewers praise the museum's extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits, noting that the displays provide a comprehensive and engaging look at local history.
• Knowledgeable Staff: Visitors often comment on the helpful and informative staff at the Northbrook History Museum, who are always eager to share their knowledge and enthusiasm for local history.
• Family-Friendly: The museum's offerings are well-suited to visitors of all ages, with many reviewers noting that the museum is an excellent destination for families with children.
• Well-Presented: Reviewers appreciate the museum's well-curated exhibits and attractive displays, which help bring local history to life in an engaging and visually appealing way.

With its rich collection of exhibits, engaging programs, and historic buildings, the Northbrook History Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Northbrook and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, the museum offers an unforgettable experience that is both educational and enjoyable. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the fascinating story of Northbrook – visit the Northbrook History Museum today!

👍 Reviews of Northbrook History Museum

Levi M.

5/5

Really fascinating museum, it’s an original house/ inn from the late 1800s beautifully restored. With so many interesting tidbits of the history of Northbrook. Downstairs they have maps of all the landowners of Northbrook from 1875, upstairs is the house restored from what it could have looked like like in 1906. Truly incredible blast from the past!

Esther F.

5/5

This is a nice little museum about the history of Northbrook. The museum is located inside a former inn. Each room focuses on a different aspect of Northbrook's history. The upstairs is still furnished with beds and furniture to replicate what it would have been like in the past. What made this museum especially great were the volunteers. I received an 1+ tour of the entire building with a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteer. There is some signage throughout the museum, but if you visit, I highly recommend a personal tour.

James K.

5/5

The Northbrook Historical Society offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area. The exhibits are well-curated and informative.

Kati S.

5/5

Not many towns have a historical building devoted to the history of their town. Neat place to learn about the beginnings of the town!

Cynthia S.

3/5

My ancestors are the people Sanders Road & Winkelmann is named after. But, unfortunately, the library has no information, no database connected to the newspapers of that area, like other communities have. They rely on the historical society to gather information. I found no information from the historical society that I hadn’t already gotten from Ancestry!
It’s sad! I have so many pictures of Winkelmann & Sander to share. But not with a society that doesn’t know anything. They should take a lesson from Palatine, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin or Warren, Iowa-other communities that I was very successful finding information. ALL library based.

Kim H.

3/5

Cute little consignment shop tucked in the back of a house built in the late 1800s.

Kimberly C.

4/5

Love looking around at Shermerville history and visiting the gift shop.

Daniel C.

5/5

Look at history of Northbrook