Our Collections Department
Since 1974 Midway Village Museum has been collecting artifacts and documents that record Rockford history. Today the Museum’s collection contains approximately 150,000 objects which are used for exhibits, educational programs, and research.
The Museum’s collection of artifacts include
- 15,000 photographs of Rockford people, places and activities
- Books, maps, and documents related to Rockford life
- Furniture and other products made by local manufacturers
- Historical clothing and accessories
- Agricultural implements
- Household objects such as stoves, carpet sweepers, and dishware
- Toys and sports equipment
- Wood and metal working tools
- And much more!
Check out our Collections Blog for an in-depth look at some of our artifacts!
The Collections Department is responsible for…
- The care and preservation of the artifacts in the collection and the documentation of them.
- Reviewing artifacts being offered to the museum for their appropriateness to the collection. More →
- Assisting members of public with historical research and access to the Museum’s collections. More →
- Offering information to the public on the proper care of historical objects. More →
- Special programs offering up-close experiences with the Museum’s artifacts.
For assistance feel to contact Laura Furman, Curator of Collections at 815-397-9112, ext. 108 or laura.furman@midwayvillage.com.
Midway Village is on Historypin!
Historypin is an website that allows for individuals and institutions to upload historical images. The Collections Department at Midway Village is happy to announce that we are now a part of this great initiative. The images pinned are all a part of our fantastic collection of photographic and postcard resources, and if you click below, the link will guide you to our page. These images can help with research on the Rockford area, and if you are interested in any of the images, please go to our research page here.