Des Plaines History Center

Collections

The Des Plaines Historical Society collects and preserves objects with an emphasis on local history. The collection includes more than 26,500 cataloged objects and documents from the 19th- and 20th-century that represent Des Plaines and its history. General collecting areas include family and personal artifacts, tools and equipment, furnishings, and recreational objects. The collection also includes contemporary items related to people and places in Des Plaines.

Archives

DPHS also collects and preserves paper based artifacts, photographs and documentary media that relate to the history of Des Plaines. The archives contain local obituaries, newspaper articles, photographs, cemetery listings, family histories, genealogical research, plats and maps. Genealogists, students, homeowners interested in house and land research, news agencies and environmental site researchers are among the frequent users of the History Center's archival materials. The archives are open to the public during weekday operating hours. Call ahead or email for specific requests or to make an appointment.