Our History
The West Chicago City Museum is a department of the city of West Chicago. The museum was established by City ordinance in 1975, in the building of the original West Chicago town hall. The collection is held in the public trust and exists for the public's informational and educational benefit.
Initially an agricultural region settled in the 1830s & 40s, the community holds the distinction of being the first Illinois town created as a result of the railroads. The community's original name, Junction, refers to the convergence of rail lines where this lively town of railroad workers and facilities sprang up. Seeking to reinvent itself as "Chicago's Coming Great Manufacturing Suburb" the town was renamed West Chicago in 1896.
Today West Chicago is a suburban community of over 25,000 with a diverse population. The Museum's collection reflects the community's rich history of nearly 175 years, helping to make meaningful connections between past and present.
West Chicago City Museum located at 132 Main St, West Chicago, IL
Community Outreach
The West Chicago City Museum provides unique historical and cultural opportunities to the community and is a leader in promoting and protecting West Chicago's local heritage. The Museum offers two galleries of changing exhibits highlighting West Chicago history and culture, and presents special traveling exhibits from state and national venues. School, group, and public programs are offered throughout the year. The Museum's archives, photographic collections, reference library, and research files are available for public use. The Museum has researched and published several books on West Chicago history and culture.
Our Mission
The West Chicago City Museum is a dynamic history and art center that inspires and involves the community through research, programs and exhibits. The museum vows to encourage and fulfill the cultural needs for expression, as well as promote acceptance and understanding of the West Chicago community.
What about Our Depot?
The Chicago, Burlington, & Quincy Railroad depot (seen on our homepage), built in the 1860s, was donated to West Chicago by Burlington in 1978. It has been removed from its original site on Wood Street and is now included here as a part of the West Chicago City Museum.
Included inside the depot is a Turntable Model of the 1869 Chicago North West Roundhouse, including 13 engine stalls.
From May to September, we offer Depot Days. Check our events page for this year's Depot Days, and come take a look at the interior of this depot, as well as the 1869 Roundhouse Model!