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.

Leaning Tower of Niles

Built in 1931 and completed in 1934, the Leaning Tower is a historic landmark and unique part of the village landscape.

If you have any items pertaining to the Leaning Tower, Leaning Tower YMCA, Robert Ilg, or Niles Sister Cities, please contact our curator at ban@vniles.com

Opens Summer 2027

Niles Civic Organizations

In the 1950s and 1960s, Niles residents started numerous clubs and organizations to improve their communities. This exhibit will highlight these organizations that helped make Niles what it is today.

If you have anything pertaining to any Niles citizen-run organization, please contact our curator at ban@vniles.com

Opening 2028

Niles Scouting: An American Tradition

at the Niles Senior Center, 999 Civic Center Drive

Open September 2026 through September 2027

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.