About the Skokie Historical Society

The Skokie Historical Society is a volunteer organization dedicated to collecting information and artifacts pertaining to Skokie, Illinois previously known as Niles Center.  The current Society was formed in 1982 and received the collection of its predecessor.  The collection includes manuscripts, published works, periodicals, oral histories, genealogies, photographs and artifacts.  The collection is available to the general public for examination and research by appointment.  A portion of the collection is now available on-line at the Historical Society’s website.

 The Historical Society collection is located at the Historic Engine House and Log Cabin which is owned and operated by the Skokie Park District.  In 1991, the Historic Engine House was restored to its 1915 appearance.  The first floor has a reference library for public use and a permanent Skokie Fire Department exhibit.  The Fire Department exhibit includes a full-scale reproduction of the original 1800’s ladder truck, a refurbished 1800’s hose cart and a refurbished 1920’s chemical tank as well as equipment, uniforms, photographs, medals and much more.  The second floor is devoted to archival storage and local history exhibit space.  The second floor can be rented for private parties.  Adjacent to the Museum is the log cabin that was occupied by the Nicholas and Elizabeth Meyer family in the mid 1800’s and today demonstrates the rural Niles Center lifestyle during that era.

Hours of Operation:
Thursday & Friday:                         
12:00pm to 4:00pm

Saturday & Sunday:

10:00am to 2:00 pm                          
Other hours by appointment