The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest was organized in 1968. Originally housed on the second floor of Historic Pleasant Home in Mills Park since 1970, the Historical Society moved to its new home at 129 Lake Street in Oak Park in 2017, operating the Oak Park River Forest Museum and Jeanette S. and Ellis K. Fields Research Center and archives. The Historical Society is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation organized to serve the community. It operates solely from the support of memberships, earned income, and the generosity of local residents and businesses. It receives no local tax dollars.
The Museum includes a children's activity space and changing exhibits on different aspects of local history. The Museum is home to a collection of thousands of photographs, vintage costumes, and artifacts donated by families, organizations and local businesses. We provide valuable support for area residents, students, writers, journalists, filmmakers, government bodies and organizations wishing to delve into our fascinating past and evolution. Our extensive collection is always growing, as is its value to present and future generations. The collection is accessible through special programs, exhibits, and the Fields Research Center.