Chicago History Museum - Crown Welcoming Video

Welcome to the Chicago History Museum. It's your museum and you're a part of Chicago's history. Before I move on, let's give a big shout out to all the teachers and chaperones. They make this special experience possible.

It's important to know the stories of our past so we can use our imaginations to make Chicago an even better city in the future. Stories of people in our history inspire us to make good choices today, and there's a place here for the stories you will tell.

The museum is filled with remarkable objects.

Some are huge, others are quite small.

Some, like Abraham Lincoln's deathbed, have national significance.

And the museum continues to collect objects and media that'll give people in the future a window into what our lives are like today.

Each object reflects some of the choices Chicagoans made and the challenges they faced.

Some Chicagoans are famous, but other unsung heroes kept and continue to keep the city running and growing by doing their jobs and going to school.

Chicago has had many challenges.

It was nearly destroyed by fire, But strong people rebuilt the city.

Today, you will be sharing the museum with other school groups and visitors, big and small. Your map will be your guide for where to go and when. Some of you will start by watching the great Chicago adventure film, others in Sensing Chicago.

No matter where you explore, you'll have the chance to look closely at artifacts that help us piece together the past.

Each time you return to the museum, you'll find something new and exciting.

And wait till you see the fun activity carts. Volunteers will guide you through activities that showcase great Chicago stories.

Your group is welcome to join any cart when the volunteer is free.

You might also encounter museum staff in the galleries. It takes lots of people to keep the museum in shape for you.

We wanna show off what a great city Chicago is.

And since this museum belongs to all of us, each one of us needs to do our part.

You can do that by remembering these guidelines.

No giant backpacks because they might accidentally bump into people or artifacts.

Small backpacks are okay as long as you wear them on the front.

Stay with your group. The chaperones will be your guides.

We know you're excited, but don't run. We don't want anyone getting hurt.

There are two floors here at the Chicago History Museum. Please use the stairs to keep the elevators free for people who need it.

Use your indoor voice so others can immerse themselves in Chicago's history. You probably know why food or drink isn't allowed in the museum.

Sticky, drippy, crumbly things make a mess.

But don't worry, there's a place for you to eat your lunch later.

Older students, remember, you're setting an example for the younger ones.

And here's a message for you adults. You're part of making this visit a success. Stay engaged with your group and you may learn something too.

This is your museum. We hope you come back with your family.

Now there's only one thing left for you to do.

Enjoy the Chicago history experience.