Smithsonian 'American Backyard' exhibit opening in Elmhurst
The smell of hot dogs on the grill, the sound of a mower on a Saturday afternoon, pool parties, and get-togethers on the patio - these are the perennial signs of a suburban summer.
The Smithsonian explores the evolution from the front porch to the outdoor living room in "Patios, Pools and the Invention of the American Backyard," a traveling exhibit that will be on view Friday, March 18, through Sunday, May 29, at the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst.
Through rare photographs, historical drawings and period advertisements, "Patios, Pools and the Invention of the American Backyard" takes visitors on a journey to the midcentury backyard of the 1950s and '60s - from the rise of the suburbs and tract houses and the beauty of postwar garden design to the birth of the environmental movement.
Drawing from the collections and research of the Smithsonian Gardens' Archives of American Gardens, the exhibition is organized for travel by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service.
In the 1950s, America was a nation emerging from the shadow of World War II, and searching for ways to enjoy its newfound peace and prosperity. Postwar trends such as the Baby Boom, a growing middle class, the do-it-yourself concept, and a dramatic rise in homeownership remade much of the U.S. and contributed to the development of the suburban backyard.
The midcentury backyard became an extension of the house, a room designed for relaxing, recreation and entertaining. Private backyard pools were an affordable luxury for many, and the patio became the perfect place for a backyard grill and patio furniture made with new materials like plastic and aluminum.
The Elmhurst History Museum is adding both local and family-friendly components to engage visitors during the "Patios, Pools and the Invention of the American Backyard" exhibit. A few of the programs on deck include:
• An appearance by first-person history presenter Leslie Goddard as conservationist Rachel Carson, author of "Silent Spring," on Thursday, April 7;
• Spring break activities for kids during the week of Tuesday, March 29;
• Mid-Century Mod Cocktail Party on Wednesday, May 4; and
• Sustainable Home Landscaping lecture with horticulturist Vicki Nowicki on Friday, May 20.
In addition, Elmhurst residents' photos from the 1950s and '60s, showing how their families used the outdoor space during this era, will be featured. A Family Guide is available and a family-friendly interactive section has been added to engage younger children.
The Elmhurst History Museum also will have lawn games such as hula hoops and croquet on hand for visitors on weekends and during spring break week, weather permitting.
Museum hours are 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays and Tuesdays through Fridays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; and 1 to 8 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. Admission is free and limited on-site parking is available.
For the latest exhibit and program information, visit elmhursthistory.org, like Elmhurst History Museum's Facebook page, or call (630) 833-1457.
If you go
What: Patios, Pools and the Invention of the American Backyard
When: Friday, March 18, through Sunday, May 29
Hours: 1 to p.m. Sundays and Tuesdays through Fridays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; 1 to 8 p.m. the third Thursday of the month
Where: Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst
Cost: Free
Info: (630) 833-1457 or elmhursthistory.org