Historical Society Becomes History Center

Janice Hack, Executive Director of the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Historical Society, announced this week that the organization will change its name to History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff as of October 7, 2018 when the museum building officially opens at 509 East Deerpath.

Hack explained that the new name reflects a refreshed vision of being a welcoming center, a place where people can connect with history in dynamic ways adding, “Not only are we a membership organization but, with our brand new facility, we are also a destination for exhibits, programs and research.”

Serving as Executive Director for eighteen years, Hack has led the organization through almost two decades of change and growth--the acquisition of the former Church of Christ Scientist buildings in 2014, successful culmination of a $4 million capital campaign in 2018, and installation of the museum’s new permanent, interactive exhibit among the most significant.

The organization grew from a few filing cabinets in a room in Gorton Community Center to an essential community resource where tens of thousands of artifacts are presented and made accessible by a professional staff. The new History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff is now poised to connect the community with its past like never before using 21st century technology.

A new logo will be unveiled at the Grand Opening. Board Members and LF-LB Historical Society members alike are optimistic about the new direction.

"Our new History Center can help people of all ages more effectively leverage knowledge of the past as they embrace opportunities of the future, “ expressed John Ormbsy, President of the Board of Directors. “The History Center will inspire both amateur and professional historians as it welcomes them to explore its wealth of materials,” added Board Member and past Lake Forest College President, Gene Hotchkiss.