Upcoming Programs

Sunday, January 31, 2010, 2:00 p.m.
No admission charge
Sponsored by Kathy and Art Klawans

The Baha'i Temple is a Wilmette treasure and landmark. Built between 1912 to 1953, it helps to define Wilmette and welcomes visitors from across the nation and around the world. The Baha'i Temple is officially designated as one of the seven wonders of Illinois.

Ken Bowers, secretary-general of the Baha'i Faith in America, will present "Wilmette's Famous Baha'i Temple" on Sunday, January 31, 2010, 2:00 p.m. at the Wilmette Historical Museum. In a wide-ranging slideshow, Mr. Bowers will explore the Temple's remarkable history, taking us on a tour of its architecture and construction that showcases the building's richly decorative and symbolic features as well as its wonderfully soothing gardens and reflecting ponds. Please join us to learn more about this local treasure and the faith that inspired it.

Before we hear from our distinguished guest, the Wilmette Historical Society will hold a brief general meeting to elect officers for 2010. Admission is free and refreshments will be served.


Monday, February 15, 1:00 pm Museum members free; $5 per family for non-members

Wilmette schools are closed in honor of President's Day, so bring the kids over to the Historical Museum where they can learn about one of the most heroic Presidents of all time - Abraham Lincoln! President Lincoln and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, will be here to talk about growing up in a log cabin, how he got his beard, why he wears such a tall hat, and what makes Mrs. Lincoln's dress stand out like that!


Sunday, February 21, 2:00 pm
Free to Museum members; $5 for non-members
Sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. William Hagenah

Come and hear about how Hollywood nearly came to the North Shore! A small wedge of land at Wilmette's northern border on the lake was once known as No Man's Land. The area now includes Plaza del Lago and the lakefront condominiums, but it once featured stylish, private beach clubs, a dance hall, and an elegant movie palace that shockingly showed Sunday movies. The lecture, presented by Wilmette Historical Society President Joe Hinkel, will feature some wonderful photographs from the area's glamorous and controversial past.


Sunday, March 14, 1:00 pm
$5 for Museum members; $10 for non-members

Tickets and reservations must be purchased in advance. Space is limited, so purchase your tickets early. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted. Further details about the event will be available when you make your reservation. (847) 853-7666

In honor of Women's History Month, the Museum has arranged for a private tour of the landmark Frances Willard House in Evanston. Frances Willard (1839-1898) is often associated with the temperance movement in the U.S., but she was also an influential social reformer, working for women's right to vote as well as for educational, prison and labor reforms. Ms. Willard was the first dean of women at Northwestern University, as well. Join us to learn more about this prominent national leader. Transportation to the Willard House is on your own. Reservation required; see above.


Sunday, April 11, 2:00 pm
$10 for Museum members; $20 for non-members

Tickets and reservations must be purchased in advance. Space is limited, so purchase your tickets early. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted. Further details about the event will be available when you make your reservation. (847) 853-7666

Bring your girlfriends, moms and sisters to a lively and informative talk given by Jane Textor, our Costume Curator. Over hot tea and delicious sweets, Jane's talk will complement our newest exhibit, Wedding Finery: Treasures from Our Collection. Reservation required; see above.