History of Chicago

ChicagoAncestors.org is a project of the Genealogy and Local History section of the Newberry (link is external), an independent research library in Chicago. The project is intended to help genealogists and local historians discover and share historical information about Chicago.

Explore Chicago Collections also provides access to digitized images from its member collections where possible. With over 100,000 digitized images available, you can explore fascinating imagery from Chicago-area archives covering the city's architecture, people, politics, history, culture and more

A guide to the Research Center at the Chicago History Museum, including hours, access, policies, etc.

Information about CPL's history-related collections, programs, exhibits and other resources, and how to use them for research.

The DuSable Museum promotes understanding and appreciation of the achievements, contributions,
and experiences of African Americans through exhibits, programs, and activities that illustrate African and African American history, culture and art.

The Newberry’s collections contain extensive research materials relating to the history of Chicago and the Midwest, including their settlement, growth, politics, and eclectic inhabitants.

Collection of resources (maps, documents, etc.) related to the development of the City of Chicago. Made available by the Chicago Historical Society, Newberry Library, and Northwestern University.

Full-text of the newspaper from 1894-1994. Articles can be displayed individually or in a page map, which displays the article in its original context as printed on the page. This historical newspaper provides genealogists, researchers and scholars with online, easily-searchable first-hand accounts and unparalleled coverage of the politics, society and events of the time.