Midway Village was first organized in 1968 with the purpose of collecting, preserving and interpreting the history of the Rockford area. This project began with a generous donation of land from the Severin family. For four years, a core of volunteers worked together with three things in mind: a vision, a dream, and a commitment to preserve Rockford stories for future generations.

Featuring over 26 historical structures, including a blacksmith shop and general store, Midway Village has for years educated its visitors about the Rockford’s history.

Today, the Museum is developing a new system and themes that relate all the Village’s integral parts into one concise plan. It is working to creating a heritage resource for Rockford, where visitors can learn about the entire region’s history. According to their website, “The Mission of Midway Village & Museum Center is to provide interpretation of the history of the City of Rockford and Northern Illinois and show how this region affects the world through its products, people and industrial innovations.” In other words, this interpretation will hopefully demonstrate the affects Rockford has had on Illinois and the United States. By incorporating state-of-the-art exhibits, conservation procedures, and many innovative interpretive services, Midway seeks to present this history and a sense of community pride for the education, pleasure, and enrichment of its visitors.

Jason Febery
Designer and Student Leader