The Center for History (formerly Wheaton History Center) is a leading nonprofit organization providing unique and captivating educational programs and exhibits to the public. The Center actively involves its participants by allowing them to experience history through hands-on activities, role-playing and participatory methods.

EASTLAND EXHIBIT
VISITED BY RECORD CROWDS
The Eastland Disaster: Chicago’s Titanic has been one of the most visited exhibits in the history of the Center for History. Hundreds of people have looked through the windows of the recreated wheel house and given the wheel a turn. They have seen the hard-hat dive suit standing on the “dock” as if it were preparing to challenge the Chicago River and its muddy bottom. They have heard over 45 compelling stories of the victims, survivors, heroes and witnesses that tell the events of that fateful day. This exhibit has brought July 24, 1915 to life for people who have a personal investment in the Eastland’s story as well as those who knew nothing about it before walking through the History Center’s front door.

Each visitor is greeted by a History Center staff member who is well versed in the story of the ship, the people and the disaster. Unlike most museums where visitors walk through and read exhibit labels, the History Center provides guided tours and interpretations. This gives everyone the opportunity to ask questions, have dialog and share stories. Every week new connections are made and through this process many captivating stories and artifacts have been added to the exhibit making it an even more complete picture of that moment in Chicago history.

The Eastland Disaster: Chicago’s Titanic exhibit closed on Sunday, January 23, 2005, but the History Center will continue to educate the public on the Eastland story through speaking engagements, a new book, and future exhibits including traveling exhibits. They also founded the SS Eastland Fellowship Authority.

FIRST ANNUAL REUNION SET FOR JULY 2005
The SS Eastland Fellowship Authority will hold its first reunion on Sunday, July 24, 2005. Fellowship Authority members and the public are invited to gather at Concordia Cemetery, 7900 West Madison in Forest Park. A memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. followed by gravesite visitations. Special markers will denote Eastland gravesites.

A reception will follow giving Eastland Family members an opportunity to meet and share on the anniversary of the Eastland disaster. The reception will be free to Fellowship Authority members and $10 per person for non members.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Center for History
606 N Main Street
Wheaton, Illinois 60187

Phone: (630) 682-9472
Fax: (630) 682-9913
Email: info@wheatonhistory.com Center for History's Website
Eastland Authority Website

Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday:
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Group tours, research appointments and programs may be scheduled at any time. Club meetings may be scheduled in conjunction with a program.

Admission
$5.00 while members and children eight and younger are free.

Map
The Center for History is located 25 miles west of Chicago between North Avenue and Roosevelt Road.
Map of 606 N Main St, Wheaton, IL 60187-4167

President & CEO
Alberta Adamson (adamsonwhc@aol.com)