Swedish American Museum

The Swedish American Museum in Chicago documents the history of Swedish people who arrived in the city starting in the mid-1800s. The collection includes photographs, personal belongings, and diaries that reveal how these families lived and worked.

The museum was established in 1976 to preserve the stories of Swedish immigration, which peaked between 1880 and 1920. It grew from the community's desire to document their roots and achievements in America.

The museum reflects how Swedish immigrants shaped the Andersonville neighborhood and their influence remains visible today. You can still see Swedish names on storefronts and restaurants throughout the area.

The museum is located in an active residential neighborhood, so it is best reached on foot or by public transportation. Plan to spend two to three hours for a thorough visit.

The museum offers a specialized genealogy service where visitors can research their Swedish roots. Many people return multiple times to dig deeper into their family history.

Location: Chicago

Inception: 1976

Website: http://samac.org

GPS coordinates: 41.97666,-87.66814

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:05