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Erlander Home Museum: A Step Back in Time

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Discover Rockford's Swedish roots in a beautifully preserved 1871 Victorian home. A unique glimpse into immigrant life.

Explore Rockford's Swedish heritage at the Erlander Home Museum, Rockford's first brick home built in 1871 by Swedish immigrants John and IngaStina Erlander. Tour this restored Victorian home with its unique collections and learn about the impact of Swedish immigrants on the region.

A brief summary to Erlander Home Museum

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Tours are by appointment only, so book in advance by calling or emailing the museum.
  • Check the Swedish Historical Society's website or call to confirm tour times and availability.
  • Consider visiting during one of the museum's special events to experience Swedish traditions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Erlander Home Museum is located at 404 S 3rd St in Rockford's Haight Village neighborhood. From the nearby Nordic Cultural Center at 327 S 3rd St, simply walk south along 3rd Street for a short distance. The museum will be on your left. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) offers bus services around the city. Route 11 (East State) stops near the intersection of E State St and S 3rd St. From there, walk a short distance to the museum. Check the RMTD schedule for timings and route availability. A single ride fare is typically around $2.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    Use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get directly to the Erlander Home Museum at 404 S 3rd St, Rockford, IL 61104. This is a convenient option from anywhere in the city. A short ride within the downtown area will likely cost between $8 and $15.

Discover more about Erlander Home Museum

The Erlander Home Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of Swedish immigrants in Rockford, Illinois, during the late 19th century. Housed in the first brick home built in Rockford by Swedish immigrants, John and IngaStina Erlander, in 1871, the museum showcases the cultural heritage and impact of this community.The twelve-room home has been meticulously restored to its original Victorian decor and features collections that include Rockford-made furniture, a renowned collection of over 50 dolls created by Charlotte Weibull, and many artifacts recalling Swedish immigration to Northern Illinois and Rockford's Swedish heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the Erlanders' lives, their involvement in local businesses, and the broader story of Swedish immigration to the region. The museum is located in the historic Haight Village of Rockford.The Swedish Historical Society of Rockford operates the Erlander Home Museum with the purpose of preserving and promoting Swedish-American history and culture. They host events throughout the year, such as Midsommar Festival in mid-June, Crayfish Party in September, Julmarknad, and Lucia in early December.

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