Northbrook History Museum - Northbrook, Illinois

Introduction

The Northbrook History Museum, nestled at 1776 Walters Ave, Northbrook, IL 60062, is a treasure trove of local history, offering a glimpse into the past through its meticulously curated exhibits and attractions. This community-driven museum is dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the rich history of Northbrook and its surrounding areas, making it an indispensable resource for both residents and visitors alike.

Main Services

• Museum Exhibits: The museum showcases a variety of exhibits that delve into Northbrook's past, including the history of its people, buildings, and events. These displays are continually updated to ensure a fresh and engaging experience for repeat visitors.
• Thrift Store: The Northbrook History Museum is home to a thrift store that sells donated items, with proceeds directly supporting the museum's operations and programs. This not only helps fund the museum but also encourages sustainable consumption and reduces waste.
• Tours and Educational Programs: The museum offers guided tours and educational programs for various age groups, providing a hands-on learning experience that brings history to life. These programs cater to schools, community groups, and individuals, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of local history.
• Heritage Center Archives & Offices: The Heritage Center serves as the museum's administrative hub, housing its offices and archives. Here, visitors can access extensive research materials, delve into genealogy, or explore the museum's collections.
• Virtual Tours (coming soon!): In response to the digital age, the Northbrook History Museum is expanding its reach by developing virtual tours. These online experiences will allow visitors from anywhere in the world to explore the museum's exhibits and learn about Northbrook's history.

Location and Access

The museum is situated in the heart of Northbrook, just off the intersection of Walters Avenue and Waukegan Road. This central location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the Chicago metropolitan area. The surrounding neighborhood is characterized by tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a mix of residential and commercial properties.

Public transportation is available via the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), with the museum being accessible by the Metra Union Pacific North Line and various Pace bus routes. Additionally, the museum offers ample on-site parking, including free lot parking and free street parking, ensuring a convenient visit for all.

Featured Characteristics

• Northfield Inn: The museum's crown jewel is the historic Northfield Inn, a beautifully restored 19th-century house that serves as the museum's main exhibit space. This original house-turned-inn provides an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Northbrook's early settlers.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The Northbrook History Museum is committed to ensuring that its exhibits and facilities are accessible to all visitors. The museum features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, car park, and toilet, making it easy for everyone to enjoy its offerings.
• Gift Shop: The museum's gift shop offers a variety of items, including books, souvenirs, and locally made products, providing visitors with a convenient opportunity to purchase unique mementos or gifts.
• Restaurant: While the museum does not have an on-site restaurant, several dining options are available within walking distance, catering to various tastes and budgets.
• Family-friendly and Good for Kids: The Northbrook History Museum prides itself on being a family-friendly attraction, offering exhibits and programs that engage and educate children. Its commitment to providing a positive experience for young visitors makes it an excellent choice for families with children.

Practical Information

• Hours: The museum is typically open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. However, it is recommended to check the museum's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on hours and any special events or closures.
• Contact:
  • Phone: 847-498-3404
  • Website: northbrookhistory.org
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Social Media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors to the Northbrook History Museum have consistently praised its engaging and well-curated exhibits, with an average opinion of 4.1/5 on Google My Business. Some of the most frequently mentioned positive aspects include:

• Historical significance: Many visitors appreciate the museum's dedication to preserving and sharing Northbrook's history, with its exhibits offering unique insights into the region's past.
• Authentic and immersive experiences: The Northfield Inn and other exhibits create an immersive environment that allows visitors to connect with history in a tangible way.
• Educational value: Both children and adults have praised the museum's ability to teach and engage, making it an excellent resource for schools and families alike.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff: Many visitors have commended the museum's staff for their warmth, expertise, and willingness to share their knowledge with guests.

The Northbrook History Museum is more than just a collection of exhibits; it is a gateway to the past, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the rich history of Northbrook and its surrounding areas. Through its commitment to preservation, education, and engagement, the museum continues to enrich the lives of both residents and visitors, one fascinating story at a time.

👍 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