Elmhurst History Museum explores 'How the World Arrived on Lake Michigan's Shores'

For generations, and at least since the first Algonquian-speaking tribes arrived here, the Chicago area has attracted people whose lives were disrupted by war, famine, revolution, and economic crisis from all over the world. What is it about Chicago and its suburbs that has drawn immigrants from across the globe to the shores of Lake Michigan throughout history, and continues to do so in modern times?

The Elmhurst History Museum welcomes College of DuPage history professor and author Sam Mitrani for an illustrated lecture on Sunday, Jan. 29, to consider some of the factors that have made Chicago an immigration hub. Participants will learn why so many came here and how these successive waves of immigrants have shaped and been shaped by this region.

The "How the World Arrived on Lake Michigan's Shores" program takes place at 2 p.m. in the Elmhurst History Museum's Education Center which is located just south of the museum at 120 E. Park Ave. in Elmhurst.

The cost is $5 for non-members and free to Elmhurst Heritage Foundation members.

Reservations can be made online at elmhursthistory.org or on Eventbrite.com.

A limited number of walk-ins may be accommodated on a space available basis the day of the program. Free parking is available in the museum parking lot and in nearby City of Elmhurst garages.

This program is presented in connection with the Elmhurst History Museum's current exhibit, "In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities," which continues its run through May 14, 2023.

The exhibit examines the personal stories and experiences of area immigrants and their descendants as told through first-person accounts, photographs, treasured objects, video and more.

Visitors will gain a better understanding of DuPage County's growing diversity and the challenges immigrants and their families face as they shape an evolving identity in this country.

Admission is free and more information can be found at elmhursthistory.org.

Make a reservation to reserve a spot for the "How the World Arrived on Lake Michigan's Shores" at the Elmhurst History Museum.

The Elmhurst History Museum is a department of the City of Elmhurst supported by the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. General admission is free. For more information, call (630) 833-1457 or visit elmhursthistory.org.