The 1968 Exhibit


The year 1968 was a history-making year and a turning point for a generation coming of age and a nation at war. That year Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Robert Kennedy were assassinated, riots broke out at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, feminist demonstrations were held at the Miss America pageant, and in the final days of the year, the first glimpses of Earth in its entirety were shown from the window of the Apollo 8 space capsule.

The Chicago History Museum, Minnesota Historical Society, Atlanta History Center, and Oakland Museum of California partnered together to create this traveling exhibit, which opens on Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Chicago History Museum.

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Many events are planned in conjunction with the exhibit. Read about some of the upcoming events.

1968 – A Celebration!
Friday, Oct.  10, 6:30 to 10:30 pm

This fundraising event includes cocktails, dinners, and the legendary Dick Biondi spinning classic tunes from the 1960s. Tickets are required.

Family Events: Prairie
Saturday, Oct. 11, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Cost: Included with Museum admission

The Chicago History Museum adds ‘60s flair to its Second Saturdays, inviting families to stop by and celebrate the flower-power decade. Learn more about the prairie plants and far-reaching fields that used to grow in Chicago.

Family Events: Maps
Saturday, Nov.  8, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Cost: Included with Museum admission

The Chicago History Museum adds ‘60s flair to its Second Saturdays, inviting families to stop by and celebrate the flower-power decade. Connect long-ago artifacts to their original locations in Chicago, and learn stories about the city.

Bus Tour
Saturday, Oct. 18, 1:00 to 5:00 pm

Northwestern Ph.D. candidate Andy Baer will lead guests to significant places from the 1968 Democratic National Convention, including Grant Park and the former site of the International Amphitheatre. The tour begins at the Chicago History Museum. Tickets are required.

Throwback Thursday
Thursday, Oct. 23, 7:00 to 10:00 pm

Tour the exhibition and prepare for a night filled with 1968-themed performances and activities. Retro cocktails, snacks, and live music will be available, including the Beatles-tribute band American English. Tickets are required.

Stories of '68
Wednesday, Nov. 5, 6:30 pm

Journalist Laura Washington will lead a panel discussion, exploring the pivotal decade of music, culture, and politics. Panelists include: journalist Bill Kurtis, host of WXRT’s Breakfast with the Beatles Terri Hemmert, and political activist Marilyn Katz. A reception will follow the panel. Tickets are required.

Thanks to our sponsors:

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Thanks to our sponsors:

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