'It's A Wonderful Life' Exhibit Closes Soon In Elmhurst

ELMHURST, IL — The Elmhurst History Museum presents “Hometown Holiday: It’s a Wonderful Life in Elmhurst,” an original exhibit that explores the making of "It's A Wonderful Life," the lives of the people who made it, and its journey from obscurity to classic, the museum said. Part of the exhibit is a private collection on loan from Chicago area collector Richard Goodson that includes a diverse array of rare photos, advertisements, lobby cards, memorabilia and more.

The exhibit is open through Jan. 6, 2019 at the Elmhurst History Museum. The Elmhurst History Museum’s hours are Sunday and Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is free, and limited free parking is available.

According to the museum, the exhibit, which is sponsored by Lakeside Bank, shares interesting facts about the film through reminiscences of the cast and crew, personal letters, behind-the-scenes photos, and other related materials.

An original copy of Philip VanDoren Stern’s short story, “The Greatest Gift,” which the movie script was based on, is also featured. The challenges of filming a holiday movie in California during summertime are detailed, as well as the careers of the many memorable character actors who played a part in the movie, the museum said.

There are also post-World War II holiday-themed items from the Elmhurst History Museum’s collection are also on display including toys and ads from former Elmhurst merchants, handmade ornaments from Dresden, Germany, and holiday cards created by former Elmhurst resident Lee Sturges, a well-known artist and etcher.

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