CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Swedish American Museum Center
5211
N. Clark Street Chicago, IL 60640
Phone 773-728-8111 www.samac.org
September
2008
Through
September 21, 4 pm
Exhibit - Sandra Binion:
Ennesbo
Sandra
Binion is an Andersonville resident who displays an intermedia installation
based on her genealogical connections to Sweden. The exhibit will feature
video and sound installations as well as a series of large-format photographs
depicting the story of her family's immigration to America from Ennesbo, Sweden.
For more information about Sandra Binion please go to www.sandrabinion.com
. Exhibit will run through Sunday, September 21.
Tuesdays
- Fridays, 1 pm - 4 pm
Saturdays - Sundays, 11 am -
4 pm
Children's Museum
of Immigration
The
Children's Museum of Immigration is an interactive, hands-on museum for children
ages 3-12. Travel back in time 100 years to a farm in rural Sweden. Sail the
seas on a Viking vessel. Take an immigrant steamer to America and start a
new life in a pioneer log cabin. These are just a few of the fun and educational
activities that await you as part of this ongoing exhibit
Swedish Cinema Evenings
with the Junior Board at Samac
Join the Junior Board for screenings of modern, critically acclaimed Swedish films. For more information on what movies are to be featured, please visit the Junior Board Web site, film.chicagoswedes.org.
Thursday, September 4, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Hejsan - After School Program
The after-school program is designed for children ages 5 to 10. Younger children are welcome under supervision of adult. This program is free but reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Thursday,
September 4, 7:00 pm
ABF Dansgille - Dance Group from Piteå
ABF
Dansgille is touring the midwest and will be at the Museum to perform traditional
and modern Swedish folk dances as well as International favorites gathered
from tours to Finland, Spain and France. They are from Piteå which is also
referred to as the "Riviera of the North" as it is ideally located on the
Gulf of Bothnia with miles of sandy beaches. The number of sunny days and
nights enjoyed during the summer months make Piteå a popular summer vacation
destination.
Traveling with the dancers is Hans Kvistvall a well known Swedish troubadour.
He has earlier toured the United States with a music tour including visits
to Elvis Presley's Graceland. Kvistvall performs with guitar and ukulele and
presents a varied repertoire including contemporary ballads, country and children's
songs. A free will offering of $5 would be appreciated. Make your reservation
by calling the Museum at (773) 728-8111 or e-mail: museum@samac.org
.
Friday,
September 5, 10:00 am - 11:30 am Cancelled
Treasures from the
Trunk - Highlights from our Immigration History
Story telling by Karin
Andersson and Lydia Scheller (Museum Staff)
For
many years, Swedes were a significant immigrant group in Chicago. They settled
and lived in specific parts of the city, centered on church and community.
Through excerpts of love letters, journals, newspapers, and other publications
preserved in the archives of the Swedish American Museum, we will see what
personal stories traveled with the individuals, and how their stories allude
to what the future might hold for them in the 21st century. Light refreshments.
Cost: $10 members, $12 non-members. Reservations are recommended. Please call
the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Sunday,
September 7, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Scandinavian Day Festival in Vasa Park, South Elgin
The 29th Annual Scandinavian Day Festival in Vasa Park, South Elgin. For more
information calll the Scandinavian Day Hotline at (847) 695-6720 or visit
their website www.vasaparkil.com.
Tuesday,
September 9 through November 25 , 6:30 - 8:00 pm Beginners 1
Tuesday, September 9 through
November 25, 8:00 - 9:30 pm Beginners 2
Swedish Language Classes
Instructor: Eva May
Beginners 1: For students who have no knowledge of the Swedish language.
Students will learn fundamentals: basic grammar, vocabulary, conversation,
Swedish culture and traditions. Classes will be held in English.
Beginners 2: For students who have some knowledge of basic grammar
and vocabulary. Emphasis on vocabulary, grammar and spoken Swedish. Classes
will be held in English.
Each course is twelve 1.5-hour lessons; classes run 12 weeks.
$145 members; $160 non-members. Books not included in tuition.
Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for further information and reservations.
Wednesday,
September 10 through November 26, 6:30 - 8:00 pm Intermediate
Wednesday, September 10 through
November 26, 8:00 - 9:30 pm Conversation/Advanced
Swedish Language Classes
Instructor: Anna Albinsson
Intermediate:
For students who have working knowledge of Swedish, including elementary conversation
and reading. The course will cover advanced grammar, vocabulary and conversation.
The classes will be held in Swedish and English.
Conversation/Advanced:
For students who have mastered the skills in Intermediate and
want to practice the Swedish language. The course will focus on advanced conversation,
discussions, reading, and comparisons of Swedish and American culture and
traditions. Classes will be held in Swedish.
Each
course is twelve 1.5-hour lessons; classes run 12 weeks.
$145 members; $160 non-members. Books not included in tuition.
Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for further information and reservations.
Thursday, September 11, 7:00
pm
Michael Saxell in Concert
Michael
Saxell is a Swedish singer-songwriter, Grammy-award-winning composer/lyricist,
multi-instrumentalist, and producer. He was born in Helsingborg, Sweden, but
has spent many years on the Canadian west coast. More than 250 of Saxell's
songs have been recorded by other artists and he has received many Scandinavian
gold and platinum awards. He has written words and music to southern Swedish
classics "Om himlen och Österlen" and "När en flicka talar skånska."
On Sept.11, Saxell will perform songs from his catalogue, accompanied by Peter
Anthonsson. A light buffet will be served. Cost: $25 members, $30 non-members.
Reservations are recommended. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for
reservations. For more information on Michael Saxell, go to: http://www.cobblestonemusic.se/NEWS.html.
Thursday, September 18, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Hejsan - After School Program
The after-school program is designed for children ages 5 to 10. Younger children are welcome under supervision of adult. This program is free but reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Friday, September 26, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Exhibit Opening: Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art
Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art features the collaboration between two weavers of Swedish descent. David Johnson and Vivian Morrison both attended North Park University, both currently reside in the Chicagoland area, and both began weaving in the mid-1970s. Morrison is a self-taught weaver and Johnson attended weaving workshops and classes. The exhibit will include work focused around Swedish tradition and nature including wall pieces by each artist, Johnson's urban-inspired tapestry and mixed media pieces, and a display of Morrison's jackets on free-standing clothing displays. Additionally, the exhibit will feature pedestals with Morrison's runners, a display case of Johnson's fiber jewelry, Origami boxes and looms, and text and photographs showing some of the artists' tools and processes. Exhibit will run through Sunday, November 30.
Saturday, September 27, 11:00 am
Gallery Walk - Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art
A tour of the exhibit with commentary.
Saturday,
September 27, 10:00 am - 2:30 pm
Nordic Family Researchers
with Marilynn Jeglum
Nordic Family Researchers with Marilynn Jeglum meet
monthly for genealogy classes at the Swedish American Museum.

Sunday,
September 28, 8:00 am
Historical Bus Tour to Bishop Hill
Swedish
immigrants seeking religious freedom founded Bishop Hill in 1846. Today, years
of work by area residents, local organizations, and the State of Illinois
to preserve Bishop Hill's heritage are being rewarded. Many colony buildings
are open to the public and are occupied by museums, shops, craftsmen, and
restaurants. Bishop Hill is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Join the
Museum and explore Bishop Hill. In the process, find the past, a small town's
tranquility, that perfect gift, a relaxing meal and even a bit of yourself.
Anna-Clara Campbell of A.C. Events & Tours will be our guide. Cost: $75 per
person. Includes bus and entrance fee, lunch, and snack/coffee break. Pre-paid
reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information
and reservations.
October
2008
Through November 30, 2008
Exhibit: Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art
Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art features the collaboration between two weavers of Swedish descent. David Johnson and Vivian Morrison both attended North Park University, both currently reside in the Chicagoland area, and both began weaving in the mid-1970s. Morrison is a self-taught weaver and Johnson attended weaving workshops and classes. The exhibit includes work focused around Swedish tradition and nature including wall pieces by each artist, Johnson's urban-inspired tapestry and mixed media pieces, and a display of Morrison's jackets on free-standing clothing displays. Additionally, the exhibit features pedestals with Morrison's runners, a display case of Johnson's fiber jewelry, Origami boxes and looms, and text and photographs showing some of the artists' tools and processes. Exhibit will run through Sunday, November 30.
Tuesdays
- Fridays, 1 pm - 4 pm
Saturdays - Sundays, 11 am -
4 pm
Children's Museum
of Immigration
The
Children's Museum of Immigration is an interactive, hands-on museum for children
ages 3-12. Travel back in time 100 years to a farm in rural Sweden. Sail the
seas on a Viking vessel. Take an immigrant steamer to America and start a
new life in a pioneer log cabin. These are just a few of the fun and educational
activities that await you as part of this ongoing exhibit
Swedish Cinema Evenings
with the Junior Board at Samac
Join the Junior Board for screenings of modern, critically acclaimed Swedish films. For more information on what movies are to be featured, please visit the Junior Board Web site, film.chicagoswedes.org.
Wednesday, October 1, 7:30 am
- 10:00 am
Start with Art
Start the day at the Museum with free admission, complimentary coffee and
treats while enjoying our new exhibit Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and
Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art.
Thursday, October 2, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Hejsan - After School Program
The after-school program is designed for children ages 5 to 10. Younger children are welcome under supervision of adult. This program is free but reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Friday through Sunday, October
3-5.
Andersonville Arts
Weekend
Many artists' works will be displayed in Andersonville's local stores. For more information, please call the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce at (773) 728-2995.
Saturday & Sunday, October 4 & 5, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Free admission to the Museum
Free admission to the Museum. Enjoy special artwork on display from the contest "Inspiration in Andersonville" and our exhibit: Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art. Complimentary coffee and pepparkakor..
Sunday, October 5, Noon
Herring Breakfast with Entertainment by Guitarist/Songwriter Karen Lindblad
A
traditional fried herring breakfast, which includes meatballs, potato sausage,
and much more, catered by Tre Kronor Restaurant. Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members.
Reservations are recommended. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 to
register.
Friday, October 10, 7:30 pm
Concert by the Old Town School of Folk Music
Support two local Chicago cultural institutions. Join members of the Old Town School of Folk Music, including Museum board member Karen Lindblad, for the school's third musical evening at the Swedish American Museum. Faculty and students of the school will perform a variety of upbeat music that will lift your spirits. Refreshments will be served. Cost: $15 per person, $10 students. Reservations are highly recommended. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 to register.
Friday, October 17, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Family Night
Join us for an evening of crafts and activities for the whole family. This
is a free event. Reservations are recommended. Please call the Museum at (773)
728-8111 to register.
Saturday, October 18
Reflections - Annual Dinner Dance & Auction
Annual
dinner dance and auction to benefit the Swedish American Museum. This year
the ball will be held at The Gleacher Center in downtown Chicago and promises
a wonderful time. Special invitations will be mailed. Reservations are required.
Wednesday, October 22, 7:00 pm
Meatball Contest and Tasting - An Evening with a Great Swedish Tradition
Meatballs
are a Swedish icon. From their humble beginning in the 1800s, they have risen
to celebrity status. Every family believes its recipe is the best and tonight
you can decide for yourself. If you would like to enter the contest, bring
meatballs made from your family recipe. But even if you don't bring meatballs,
you will still get to cast a vote for the best meatball recipe. Celebrity
judges will award prizes. A small buffet and refreshments will be served.
Cost: $20 members, $30 non-members. Reservations are recommended. Call Karin
Andersson, (773) 728-8111, ext. 22, for more information on how to enter the
contest . Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Saturday,
October 25, 10:00 am - noon
Nordic Family Researchers with Marilynn Jeglum
Nordic Family Researchers with Marilynn Jeglum meet monthly
for genealogy classes at the Swedish American Museum.
Saturday,
October 25, 2:00 pm
Pippi Longstocking Movie
Watch
Astrid Lindgren's famous character come to life in the original Pippi Longstocking
movie dubbed in English. Enjoy pepparkakor, saft, and popcorn during the movie.
Come dressed as Pippi or one of her friends. $1 per person. Reservations are
recommended. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for reservations.
Through November 30, 2008
Exhibit: Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art
Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art features the collaboration between two weavers of Swedish descent. David Johnson and Vivian Morrison both attended North Park University, both currently reside in the Chicagoland area, and both began weaving in the mid-1970s. Morrison is a self-taught weaver and Johnson attended weaving workshops and classes. The exhibit includes work focused around Swedish tradition and nature including wall pieces by each artist, Johnson's urban-inspired tapestry and mixed media pieces, and a display of Morrison's jackets on free-standing clothing displays. Additionally, the exhibit features pedestals with Morrison's runners, a display case of Johnson's fiber jewelry, Origami boxes and looms, and text and photographs showing some of the artists' tools and processes. Exhibit will run through Sunday, November 30.
Tuesdays
- Fridays, 1 pm - 4 pm
Saturdays - Sundays, 11 am -
4 pm
Children's Museum
of Immigration
The
Children's Museum of Immigration is an interactive, hands-on museum for children
ages 3-12. Travel back in time 100 years to a farm in rural Sweden. Sail the
seas on a Viking vessel. Take an immigrant steamer to America and start a
new life in a pioneer log cabin. These are just a few of the fun and educational
activities that await you as part of this ongoing exhibit
Swedish Cinema Evenings
with the Junior Board at Samac
Join the Junior Board for screenings of modern, critically acclaimed Swedish films. For more information on what movies are to be featured, please visit the Junior Board Web site, film.chicagoswedes.org.
Saturday,
November 1, 8 pm
Greger Hansson in Concert
Born
in Sweden, Greger Hansson was educated at the Malmo College of Music where
he was among the first musicians in Sweden to achieve the degree of master
of fine arts specializing in chamber music. He has been awarded two scholarships
from the prestigious Royal Swedish Academy of Music. In 1997, Hansson moved
to Spain and co-founded the Barcelona Guitar Ensemble with which he has toured
both Europe and South America. He is currently residing in Chicago, where
he teaches guitar. A light buffet will be served. Cost: $25 members, $30 non-members.
Reservations are recommended. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for
reservations.
Sunday, November 2, 2 pm
Candle Making Workshop
Candle making has a strong tradition in Sweden. With the long, dark winter nights, well-made candles were essential and are associated with many of the oldest festivals. Join the Museum and light up the winter by making hand-dipped candles. Take a break with coffee and bullar. Cost: $15 members, $20 non-members. Reservations are recommended. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Thursday, November 6, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Hejsan - After School Program
The after-school program is designed for children ages 5 to 10. Younger children are welcome under supervision of adult. This program is free but reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Thursday, November 13, 7 pm
The Fate of Raoul Wallenberg - The Latest Discoveries
Raoul
Wallenberg, member of the foremost banking and business family in Sweden,
is revered for his imaginative and courageous saving of between 20,000 and
100,000 Hungarian Jews from extermination by the German Nazis and their Hungarian
allies during the period 1944-1945. He was arrested by the Soviets in 1945,
and his fate has remained one of the most visible and disputed stories of
the past 60 years. On Thursday, Nov.13, the Swedish American Museum has the
privilege of welcoming three of the most prominent specialists on Raoul Wallenberg.
In addition to a presentation of Wallenberg's rescue operations and humanitarian
significance, we will learn about what took place in 1945 and what has recently
been uncovered about what happened thereafter. The presenters are:
--- Ari Kaplan -- CEO and president of the Independent Oracle Users
Group, an influential software association but, more important, a consultant
to the Swedish-Russian Working Group, investigating Raoul Wallenberg´s disappearance
into the Gulag.
--- David Kudish -- a professional wealth adviser as founder of Advocate
Asset Management LLC. He has a long career in several national and local Jewish
organizations, most notably as a member of the National Council of the American
Jewish Committee and the Executive Board of the Chicago Chapter.
--- Marvin Makinen -- a professor at the University of Chicago in the
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and also a consultant to
the Swedish-Russian Working Group on the fate of Raoul Wallenberg. He, himself,
was a former prisoner in the Soviet Union. Together with Kaplan, he has conducted
a remarkable cell occupancy study in the Soviet Vladimir Prison.
Delicious Swedish open-faced sandwiches and beverages will be served. Cost:
$15 members, $20 non-members. Reservations are recommended. Please call the
Museum at (773) 728-8111 for reservations. A portion of the proceeds will
be donated to the International Raoul Wallenberg Foundation.
Friday, November 14, 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Christmas Preview and Sale at the Museum Store
The
Museum Store invites you to enjoy an evening
of Christmas shopping, glögg and pepparkakor. It's Preview Night where
shoppers can select from among both traditional and new Christmas merchandise.
Special sale items and 20 percent discount for all Museum members.
Thursday,
November 19, 7:00 pm
Swedish Christmas Craft Workshop
Christmas
starts with our traditional Christmas workshop with Vereen Nordstrom and Marilynn
Jeglum. We will create paper heart baskets and straw ornaments, along with
a new surprise ornament to decorate your home. You will also learn how to
make a traditional Swedish Christmas treat. Bring a pair of sharp scissors.
Cost: $10 members, $12 non-members. Call early to register for this very popular
workshop. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for reservations.
Thursday, November 20, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Hejsan - After School Program
The after-school program is designed for children ages 5 to 10. Younger children are welcome under supervision of adult. This program is free but reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Saturday,
November 22, 10 am - 2:30 pm
Nordic Family Researchers
with Marilynn Jeglum
Nordic Family Researchers with Marilynn Jeglum meet monthly
for genealogy classes at the Swedish American Museum.
Saturday,
November 22, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Nordic Family Researchers
with Marilynn Jeglum - Beginners Session
Nordic Family Researchers with Marilynn Jeglum meet
monthly for genealogy classes at the Swedish American Museum.
Sunday, November 30, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Last Day of Exhibit: Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art
Johnson - Morrison: Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Textile Art features the collaboration between two weavers of Swedish descent. David Johnson and Vivian Morrison both attended North Park University, both currently reside in the Chicagoland area, and both began weaving in the mid-1970s. Morrison is a self-taught weaver and Johnson attended weaving workshops and classes. The exhibit includes work focused around Swedish tradition and nature including wall pieces by each artist, Johnson's urban-inspired tapestry and mixed media pieces, and a display of Morrison's jackets on free-standing clothing displays. Additionally, the exhibit features pedestals with Morrison's runners, a display case of Johnson's fiber jewelry, Origami boxes and looms, and text and photographs showing some of the artists' tools and processes.
Tuesdays
- Fridays, 1 pm - 4 pm
Saturdays - Sundays, 11 am -
4 pm
Children's Museum
of Immigration
The
Children's Museum of Immigration is an interactive, hands-on museum for children
ages 3-12. Travel back in time 100 years to a farm in rural Sweden. Sail the
seas on a Viking vessel. Take an immigrant steamer to America and start a
new life in a pioneer log cabin. These are just a few of the fun and educational
activities that await you as part of this ongoing exhibit
Swedish Cinema Evenings
with the Junior Board at Samac
Join the Junior Board for screenings of modern, critically acclaimed Swedish films. For more information on what movies are to be featured, please visit the Junior Board Web site, film.chicagoswedes.org.
Thursday, December 4, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Hejsan - After School Program
The after-school program is designed for children ages 5 to 10. Younger children are welcome under supervision of adult. This program is free but reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Saturday,
December 6, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday, December 7, 11:00 am
- 4:00 pm
Julmarknad
The Museum's annual Christmas Bazaar. Traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts. Visit the Children's Museum for crafts, games, and a special visit from Santa. Entertainment for the whole family, kaffestuga, Lucia processions, and folk dancers. Admission $2 per person.
Friday, December 12, 11:30 am
Lucia Celebration
at Daley Plaza
Celebrate
Lucia at the Daley Plaza with Lucia candidates from Swedish-American Organizations
organized by Irene Strom-Spejcher from the Central Swedish Committee.
Saturday,
December 13, 9:00 am
Breakfast with Tomten (Santa)
A Swedish pancake breakfast with traditional crafts, dancing around the Christmas tree, and a special visit from Tomten. Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members, children under 2 free. Pre-paid reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Saturday,
December 13, 10 am - noon
Nordic Family Researchers
with Marilynn Jeglum
Nordic Family Researchers with Marilynn Jeglum meet monthly
for genealogy classes at the Swedish American Museum.

Saurday, December 13, 4:45 pm at the Swedish American Museum
Saturday, December 13, 7:00
pm at Ebenezer Lutheran Church
Lucia Celebration
The
traditional Lucia celebration and procession is one of Sweden's most beautiful
events and is loved in Andersonville. The museum's procession starts at 4:45
pm from the Museum and returns for a 5:00 pm program. An extensive program
will be held at the Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 Foster Avenue, Chicago,
at 7:00 pm.
Thursday, December 18, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Hejsan - After School
Program
The
after-school program is designed for children ages 5 to 10. Younger children
are welcome under supervision of adult. This program is free but reservations
are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and
reservations.
Sunday,
December 21, 4:00 pm
Julmiddag - Old Fashioned
Swedish Family Christmas Dinner
A traditional Swedish Smörgåsbord with all the entertainment. Tomten (Santa) will be attending to give julklappar (presents) to all the children. Special invitations will be mailed. Pre-paid reservations are required. Please call the Museum at (773) 728-8111 for information and reservations.
Thursday, December 25, 8:00 am
Julotta
Julotta is a beautiful Swedish Christmas tradition. Join us for an early Christmas Day Swedish church service at the Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 Foster Avenue, Chicago.
Volunteer Opportunities
History: