Since 1856, the Chicago History Museum has shared the stories of our city. Through our work preserving and caring for artifacts and documents, creating exhibitions, programs, events, and other experiences we help people make meaningful and personal connections to Chicago.

Over the course of the last 164 years we have overcome adversity many times. We rebuilt after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, recovered from the devastating influenza epidemic of 1918, and dug ourselves out of the snow after the epic 1967 blizzard. 

Even with the Museum closed, our dedicated staff is working to create educational resources for families and teachers, sharing daily content to connect us with our past, and we are actively collecting our community’s images, stories, artifacts, and experiences to help future generations understand what living through this COVID-19 crisis was like

But, while our work continues, we have had to forego the earned revenue we depend on. With no admissions, venue rentals, or event ticket sales, we need your help. Please consider making a gift that will allow us to continue caring for our city’s artifacts and sharing Chicago’s stories now and for generations to come. 

We’re a city of hard work, conviction, and survival—it’s our story. And, together, we are Chicago.

We appreciate your support. Please stay safe and healthy.