Name Change Places Focus on Lake Bluff History

What's in a name?

Plenty if you're interested in the history of Lake Bluff.

So to make it easier for the public to associate where to learn the history of Lake Bluff, the is changing its name to the Lake Bluff History Museum.

Currently closed for renovation, the museum will reopen under its new name on Sept.24.

“Interest in researching Lake Bluff extends well beyond the local area. The museum’s new name clearly describes what the museum is all about and will make it easier for people to locate and contact us,” said Catherine McKechney, president of the Vliet Center for Lake Bluff History. “This more recognizable name will facilitate access to the museum and its website.”

The museum provides exhibit space for a collection of photographs, documents and artifacts that tells the story of Lake Bluff, which was founded in the mid-19th century. The museum originated with local resident Elmer Vliet, who served as the first unofficial Lake Bluff historian.

Vliet donated his personal collection to the Lake Bluff School District in 1982 and provided an endowment for a school-based center. In 1995, the Vliet Center incorporated as a self-sustaining, not-for-profit organization, and its museum opened in 2002. The organization — The Vliet Center —retains the name of its founder.

The Lake Bluff History Museum, located at 127 E. Scranton Ave., also houses the Vliet Research Center where individuals can peruse documents, records, photographs and other materials preserved in the Center’s archives.

Hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 1-4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., or by appointment.

For additional information, call (847) 482-1571.