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Arlington Heights Historical Museum

Calendar

Upcoming Special Events & Programs

Quilted Treasures
until May 12, 2013

Quilting as a craft probably began a few thousand years ago when someone discovered that several thin layers of cloth, sewn together, could be warmer than one thick layer. The first quilts to reach America, along with the knowledge of how to create them, most likely came over with the earliest European settlers. However, contrary to popular belief, quilts were not very common in early American homes. It was not until the later 1700s and early 1800s that quilting became more popular, especially among the leisured classes. By the mid eighteenth century, more ordinary women were able to take up the craft and the art of quilting by hand was flourishing in the U.S. But, with the dawn of the 20th century and advancements in technology, many women lost interest in making quilts the old-fashioned way. Why spend many days creating a single quilt when one could easily be purchased at the local store? In recent decades, however, there has been a revival in decorative quilt making; with many taking up the hobby for fun and relaxation.

Quilted Treasures is generously sponsored by Linda Z's and the Northwest Suburban Quilt Guild. The exhibition showcases quilts and other related items spanning the last 150 years drawn from the historical society’s collection.


Museum Tour Guide Training
Saturday, April 6, 9:00 am - 12:00 noon

We need friendly and outgoing people to lead tours of our five building museum complex. Learn about the history and architecture of our buildings and the people who lived in them. Volunteer docents (tour guides) give tours on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Time commitment can be once a month or as often as you wish. Learn from our experienced docents who will show you the basic tour and then give you their personal tips and trivia. Handbook is included. No prior experience with history or architecture necessary, just an interest in our community's heritage.


Annual Dinner and Histo Raffle
Thursday, April 25, 6:30 pm
at the Museum, 110 W. Fremont

An Appreciation of Our Architects and Artisans. Join the Historical Society, Park District, and the Village of Arlington Heights as we celebrate another year of cooperation. This year the Arlington Heights Historical Society’s Annual Dinner and Awards will be held at the Historical Museum. Cost is $40 which includes a  wonderful dinner and desserts as well as spirits (beer & wine).  Honorees this year are Patrick A. Finn, Lt.d., Kingsley + Ginnodo Architects and Will Hamm.

Let the Society help you become a part of history and a cash prize winner by purchasing a ticket in the Joseph P. Healy Memorial Histo Raffle. First prize is $3,000, second prize $1,000, third prize $500. Only 100 tickets will be sold. Best odds anywhere! Winners will be drawn during the dinner. Winner need not be present to win. More information


Closing Reception
Thursday, May 9, 7:00 pm

"Quilting: An American Art Form" presented by Ann Wasserman.
Join us for a program, refreshments, and one last look at Quilted Treasures, the Heritage Gallery exhibit. Ann Wasserman presents antique quilts to illustrate the basic techniques of quiltmaking and tells some of the stories and superstitions found in quilt history. Free, please RSVP at 847-255-1225.

Ann's work as a quiltmaker includes teaching and lecturing, repairing antique quilts, and creating unique art quilts. Her background in anthropology has led her to enjoy both the social history of quilts and quiltmaking as well as the creative process of expression in her own work.


A Kid at Heart, Looking at Childhood Play
May 25 – September 22, 2013
Friday-Sunday; 1:30pm-4:30pm

Do you remember your favorite toys as a kid? What kinds of games did you play with your friends and family when you were young? Many of us connect to our pasts through our childhood experiences. Come see A Kid at Heart, Looking at Childhood Play and rekindle some of those memories. Antique and collectible dolls and toys from the 19th and 20th centuries are featured in this Arlington Heights Historical Museum exhibit. Some modern and reproduction toys will also be available for some hands-on fun.

A Kid at Heart, Looking at Childhood Play is sponsored by Northwest Community Hospital, All About Kids Dentistry, and Arlington Pediatrics, Ltd.

Exhibits can be viewed in the museum’s Heritage Gallery located at 112 W. Fremont St. The Gallery specializes in local history exhibits drawn from the Historical Society’s collections and local, national and regional traveling exhibitions that explore the broader context of our history. There is no admission fee for the Gallery, but a suggested donation of $2.00 is recommended.


20th Annual House Walk and Tea
Sunday, June 9, 12 - 5 pm
Starts at the Museum, 110 W. Fremont
$25 members, $30 nonmembers
Add the Tea for $10 (Tea is served 1:00-3:00 pm)
Registration begins Friday, April 12.

Five historic and distinctive homes highlight the rich architectural heritage of Arlington Heights. Included in this year's event:

  • An architect's home with energy saving details, highlighted in Fine Home Building's Houses magazine
  • New home design, awarded 2011 Gold Key Award from the Home Builders Assoc. of Greater Chicago
  • A 1880's farmhouse, renovated and filled with antiques and flea market finds
  • A newly renovated home featuring design for a growing family
  • A 1920's renovated bungalow 

Come, spend a lovely afternoon browsing through these delightful homes and join some friends for tea.

To purchase tickets, click here.