Wilmette Historical Museum Wants Your 'Coronavirus Memories'

WILMETTE, IL—It may seem hard to believe, but one day future generations will read about the coronavirus outbreak in the history books. They'll learn how it devastated the economy, forced us into isolation while taking with it many lives. To make sure there is a local account of how the virus dramatically changed life as we know it, the Wilmette Historical Museum wants residents to share their personal stories.

"Some of the museum's most precious records are photographs, films, and journals from the past," museum officials posted on their website. "As we all live through the COVID-19 outbreak, we’d like you to share your experiences with us in any media. One day, we will all use these materials to remember this important event in history."

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According to the museum, all ages are welcome and encouraged to submit material. They also encourage people from all walks of life to submit, including people still working in essential services such as health care workers, restaurant workers, firefighters and police. The amount of material and length of participation is up to you.

The museum is offering a few suggestions for people to document their experience:

• Essays and Journals: One of the simplest ways to participate is to keep a written journal or other description of your experiences. If you find journaling daunting, try a One Line a Day-style journal or check out a journaling app for your phone.
• Photos & Videos: Photos and videos are most welcome. For those looking for a fun way to record your life right now, check out the app 1 Second Every Day, which allows you to upload 1-2 second video clips and “mash” them together at the end of the month. Perhaps you have been getting in touch with others via Zoom or similar—you might want to share a screenshot too.
• Artifacts: Physical artifacts, such as signs and paper journals will be welcome when it is safe to accept them.

The museum has plans to share some of the submissions on social media as well as include in its collection. For residents with additional questions, send an email to: museum@wilmette.com.

You can also submit your coronavirus story here.