World of Tomorrow: A Century of Progress
August 29, 2025 - January 4, 2026
In honor of Chicago's 100th anniversary, the city hosted its second world's fair in 40 years, the Century of Progress International Exposition. The fair spanned over 400 acres of Chicago's lakeshore, showcasing technological innovations and lifting people's spirits during the Great Depression. Our exhibition, World of Tomorrow: A Century of Progress, will delve into how the 1933-1934 world's fair symbolized optimism and hope, illustrating Chicago's evolution from a frontier town to a sophisticated metropolis. This world's fair was notably one of the most successful in history, drawing a record-breaking 39 million attendees and featured a distinctive design aesthetic, as evidenced by the numerous souvenirs collected by fairgoers.
Sponsored by: Feze Roofing, Community Bank of Elmhurst, Classic Cinemas, Michael V. LoCicero, Attorney at Law, Patchwork Therapy, & the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation
By All Accounts: The Story of Elmhurst
Ongoing Exhibition
NEW UPDATES! Experience the history of Elmhurst through an innovative, award-winning exhibit that takes visitors on a journey of discovery exploring how the city has changed and grown over the past 165+ years. The Museum’s second floor gallery is home to a state-of-the-art, engaging exhibit with many interactive displays, artifact towers, rare collection photos, and more. View the newly updated exhibit introduction that documents the early history of the Native cultures that populated the Elmhurst area before the arrival of European settlers. In our mini-theatre, select from a menu of video options including a documentary on Elmhurst history and the story of the Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse. Check out the changing History Spotlight and a feature about the Glos Family and Glos Mansion in the 2nd floor hallway.
Sponsored by: Storino, Ramello & Durkin Attorneys at Law & the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation
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