About the Museum
The Arlington Heights Historical Society was founded in 1957 by a group of residents dedicated to preserving the village's rich history. In 1968, the Society opened the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, creating a remarkable 5-building complex that tells the story of suburban development in Chicago's northwest suburbs.
Today, the museum campus offers visitors an immersive journey through time, from pioneer days through the Victorian era and into the 20th century. Each historic building has been carefully preserved or relocated to the site, creating a unique outdoor museum experience just blocks from downtown Arlington Heights.
The Historic Buildings
Muller House (1882)
The centerpiece of the museum complex, the Frederick Muller House, was built in 1882 and showcases the Italianate architectural style popular in the late 19th century. Frederick Muller was a prominent local businessman who operated a general store and served as postmaster. The house has been meticulously restored with period furnishings that reflect the lifestyle of a prosperous Victorian family.
Visitors can explore multiple rooms filled with authentic artifacts, including original furniture, clothing, household items, and personal belongings that bring the 1880s to life. The attention to detail in the restoration provides an authentic glimpse into daily life during Arlington Heights' early years.
Log Cabin (1896)
This authentic pioneer log cabin represents the earliest settlement period in the Arlington Heights area. Built in 1896, the cabin demonstrates the construction techniques and living conditions of the region's first settlers. Inside, visitors find period-appropriate furnishings and tools that illustrate the challenges and ingenuity of frontier life.
Soda Pop Factory (1906)
The Beecher Soda Pop Factory building showcases Arlington Heights' commercial history. This 1906 structure housed a bottling operation that served the growing community. Today, it contains exhibits about local businesses, industry, and commerce that shaped the village's development.
Banta House (1908)
The John D. Banta House represents early 20th-century residential architecture and lifestyle. Built in 1908, this charming home illustrates how Arlington Heights evolved from a rural community into a modern suburb. Period rooms show the transition in household technology and daily life during this transformative era.
Coach House (1880s)
The Coach House, dating from the 1880s, originally served as a carriage house and stable. Today, it functions as an exhibit space featuring rotating displays on various aspects of Arlington Heights history, from transportation to education, agriculture to recreation.
Research & Collections
The Arlington Heights Historical Museum maintains extensive archival collections available for researchers, genealogists, and history enthusiasts:
- Photographs documenting Arlington Heights from the 1880s to present
- Local business records and advertisements
- High school yearbooks and school district records
- Maps showing village development over time
- Newspaper clippings and scrapbooks
- Family histories and genealogical resources
- City directories and census records
- Oral history recordings from longtime residents
Research assistance is available during museum hours. For extensive research projects, consider scheduling an appointment in advance by calling (847) 255-1225.
History of Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights' history began in the 1830s when settlers first arrived in the area. The community was originally called Dunton, after William Dunton, one of the first settlers. In 1887, the village was incorporated and renamed Arlington Heights, inspired by Arlington, Massachusetts.
The arrival of the Chicago & North Western Railway in 1854 transformed the area from scattered farms into a cohesive community. The railroad connection to Chicago made Arlington Heights an attractive location for both farmers shipping goods to market and city workers seeking a suburban lifestyle.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Arlington Heights evolved from an agricultural village into a thriving suburb. The population grew steadily, local businesses flourished, and civic institutions developed. The post-World War II suburban boom accelerated growth, transforming Arlington Heights into one of Chicago's most desirable northwest suburbs.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
The museum is located at 110 West Fremont Street in downtown Arlington Heights, just two blocks from the Arlington Heights Metra station. Free parking is available on-site and on surrounding streets. The location is easily accessible from Routes 14 (Northwest Highway) and 53.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the historic buildings are offered every Saturday at 10:30am. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and cover all five buildings on the campus. The tour guides are knowledgeable volunteers who share fascinating stories about the buildings, artifacts, and the people who shaped Arlington Heights.
Tour Admission: Adults $5, Children $3
No reservations required for regular Saturday tours. Groups of 10 or more should call ahead.
Self-Guided Visits
During regular hours (Wednesday-Sunday), visitors are welcome to explore the museum buildings at their own pace. Docents are available to answer questions and provide additional information about exhibits.
Group Tours & Field Trips
The museum offers special group tours and educational programs for schools, scouts, and other organizations. Custom tours can be arranged outside regular hours. Contact the museum at (847) 255-1225 to schedule a group visit.
Programs & Events
The Arlington Heights Historical Museum hosts numerous special events and programs throughout the year:
- Historical Lectures - Monthly presentations on local and regional history topics
- Living History Days - Costumed interpreters demonstrate period crafts and daily life
- Seasonal Celebrations - Victorian Christmas, Pioneer Days, and other themed events
- Children's Programs - Hands-on activities introducing young people to history
- Workshops - Historical crafts, genealogy research, and preservation techniques
- Exhibit Openings - New displays highlighting different aspects of local history
Check the museum's website or Facebook page for the current events calendar and program details.
Get Involved
The Arlington Heights Historical Society welcomes members and volunteers who share a passion for preserving and sharing local history.
Membership Benefits
- Free admission to all museum buildings and tours
- Quarterly newsletter with historical articles and museum updates
- Invitations to special members-only events
- Discounts on museum programs and gift shop purchases
- Supporting the preservation of Arlington Heights history
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are the heart of the museum, helping with:
- Docent tours and visitor services
- Archival research and cataloging
- Special event planning and staffing
- Building and grounds maintenance
- Educational program development
- Digital archiving and social media
Contact the museum at (847) 255-1225 or colson@ahpd.org to learn more about membership and volunteer opportunities.
Explore More Arlington Heights History
Use the When It Was app to discover what businesses and landmarks existed throughout Arlington Heights' history. See how your neighborhood evolved from farmland to suburb.
Explore When It Was →