DuPage County Historical Museum

11/12/25
Today, our guest speaker was Michelle Podkowa, Museum Manager and Educator. 
 
A very brief history: Located at the SE corner of Main and Wesley streets, the museum dates from 1891. Originally the Adams Memorial Library, it housed Wheaton's library until the fall of 1965 when the library moved to its current facility, and the Adams Memorial Library building became the home of the DuPage County Historical Museum. The DuPage County Historical Museum currently exists as a facility of Wheaton Park District, offering exhibits, research assistance, programs, and other educational services for the benefit of the community. The 1st floor contains exhibit spaces, gift shop, and the adminisrrative office The 2nd floor contains the auditorium, and in the basement is the ever popular HO Scale Model Railroad compliments of the DuPage Society of Model Engineers. The detailed layout covers over 2,000 feet of track and highlights some of DuPage County’s railroads and landmarks in a landscape blending fact and fantasy. Trains run from 1:30-3:30P on the third and fifth Saturday of each month.
  •   See: https://dupagemuseum.org/architectural-cultural-history/
  •   See: https://dupagemuseum.org/parties-rentals/
 
Current and planned Collections & Exhibits:
  • Tense Times - the Cold War in DuPage County (6/14/25-3/21/26): The Cold War was a period of major scientific advancements haunted by threats of an all-out global war that took place between the late 1940s and lasted until the early 1990s.
  • The Cabinet of Curiosities (9/13/25-5/30/26): With a collection of more than 40,000 objects, it is no surprise that the Museum is home to many unique and surprising items.
  • Woven Together-Coverlets and Community in DuPage County (7/12/25-4/11/26): Through their intricate patterns and designs, coverlets preserve and share stories, histories and memories across generations.
  • The Mother Road & Iconic DuPage Firsts (8/15/26-11/14/26): Take a ride down momory lane on Route 66. This year the legendary "Mother Road" turns 100! Celebrate this along with other iconic firsts in DuPage County: the first 18-hole golf course, the first rails to trails conversion, the first public library, and the first shot fired at Gettysburg.
  • Defining us: The 250th Anniversary of the United States (7/15/26-4/10/27): Explores the significant events, moments, and milestones that have shaped the United States over the course of its 250 years as a country
Events & Programs:
  • Achitectural Walking Tour: Enjoy a stroll through historic Downtown Wheaton. Learn about the people, businesses and important events that shaped our area. The tour begins at the DuPage County Historical Museum and proceeds through town. Discover the stories behind the railroad, the County Courthouse and more. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Approximately 1.5 miles are covered during the tour. Cost: $10.00 per person.
  • Birthday Parties: Available year-round, Tuesday through Sunday, based on availability. Ages 4+. Activities are age-appropriate for the birthday child. A minimum of two weeks notice is required to schedule an event. You can also call 630.510.4941. Packages - themed birthday parties ($200 for 1.5 hours). Ten children (including the birthday child) are included in the party package. Additional children may be included at a cost of $10 per child (maximum 18). The staff will work with you to create a memorable experience. Party includes:
    • Invitations and envelopes
    • 45 minutes of themed activities, facilitated by staff
    • Museum exploration time, if desired
    • Decorations and craft supplies
    • Paper products and plasticware
    • Setup and cleanup
  • School & Scout Group Programs/ Summer Camps: See: https://dupagemuseum.org/schools-scout-groups/ and https://dupagemuseum.org/summer-camps/