Our Building, Our History

Constructed in 1923, our building housed the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department from 1924 to 1984. The building was then leased to the Niles Historical Society who moved here in March 1985. Today the building is one of the oldest municipal structures in Niles and a local landmark. The exhibit features photographs, documents, and artifacts commemorating its longtime tenants; the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department and the Niles Historical Society.

Tam O’Shanter: Niles’s Link to World Championship Golf

In the mid-1920s, The Tam O’Shanter Golf Club purchased and developed 112 acres of land on either side of Howard Street by the north branch of the Chicago River. They hired Charles Dudley Wagstaff and Company to turn it into an 18-hole golf course. In 1937, they sold it to George S. May, who turned Tam O’Shanter Golf course into a household name.

Golf Mill

Since it opened in 1960, Golf Mill’s central location, variety of hosted events, and iconic architectural elements like the Professional Building and Mill Pond make the mall an important part of the community’s history. 

The exhibit features items from Sears, Golf Mill Lanes, Golf Mill State Bank, Golf Mill Theater, JCPenney, and Mill Run Theater. On display for the first time are photos of the construction of the Professional Building and the mall’s early days as well as paintings of the mall graciously loaned by the Sterling Organization for the exhibit. Visitors can listen to recordings of select Mill Run shows at the museum. The exhibit also includes photos and items from Golf Mill events and promotions and a chance to share your memories about the mall.

A Salute to Niles Veterans

This display of military artifacts pays homage to the men and women of Niles who fought in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf and Iraq Wars.

Niles Drugstores

at the Niles Senior Center, 999 Civic Center Drive

Pharmacists gave special care to their customers and their businesses were a central part of life for many Niles residents. This exhibit shines a spotlight on select independent drug stores in Niles and their contributions to the community.  

Niles Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts

at the Niles Senior Center, 999 Civic Center Drive

Opening September 2026

For Niles girls and boys, scouting was an important part of growing up. Many schools and churches sponsored groups; some still active today. This exhibit features items from local scouts and photos of these groups in the community.