Elmhurst History Museum wins top Illinois award for Lost Chicago exhibit

Under the warm glow of the Elmhurst City Hall, excitement filled the air as the city council gathered to celebrate a remarkable achievement by the Elmhurst History Museum. On April 3, 2025, the museum was honored with the prestigious Award of Superior Achievement from the Illinois Association of Museums for its exhibition "Lost Chicago and Department Stores." This accolade is the highest honor bestowed by the association, which represents over 1,000 museums across the state.

The exhibition not only captivated local audiences but also attracted visitors from Chicago, the western suburbs, and even out-of-state patrons, breaking all previous attendance records for the museum. Visitor surveys revealed that many attendees took the opportunity to dine and shop in Elmhurst, highlighting the exhibition's positive impact on the local economy.

This award marks the third time in five years that the Elmhurst History Museum has received such recognition, following previous honors for a documentary on the Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse and the restoration of a significant painting by renowned artist G. P. Healy.

Museum Director Oberg expressed gratitude to the dedicated team behind the exhibition, including curator Sarah Cox and consultant curator Lehi Goddard. He praised their hard work, noting that the exhibition created an unprecedented level of engagement, making January—the month of the exhibit's conclusion—the busiest month in the museum's history.

The council meeting also acknowledged the vital support from the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation, a nonprofit organization that plays a crucial role in enhancing the museum's capabilities. As the meeting transitioned to other agenda items, the sense of pride and community spirit lingered, reflecting the museum's significant role in Elmhurst's cultural landscape.