Current Exhibits

Chicagoland Movie Palaces: A Century of Follies & Film
September 6, 2024 – January 5, 2025

Exploring the early days of vaudeville and the golden age of motion picture theatres, Elmhurst History Museum’s new Chicagoland Movie Palaces: A Century of Follies & Film examines the first movie palaces built in the Chicagoland area, delving into the architects who created them, the movie-going culture during the early age of Hollywood and the Blockbuster era, and the evolving digital movie experience. The exhibit also highlights York Theatre's centennial celebration with a special section on famous performances and films that have made a splash on the iconic marquee in Elmhurst, IL since 1924. Through historical photographs, performance and film artifacts, historical publications and advertisements, and archival films, the exhibition aims to explore the innovation, evolution, and adaptation of the movie industry. Guests may also enjoy a variety of interactive elements in Chicagoland Movie Palaces: A Century of Follies & Film, from a foley table and ticket booth to touchscreens featuring oral histories, movie trailers, and more. 

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: Elmhurst Heritage Foundation.

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