Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture

About Us:

Founded in 1966 in Chicago, Illinois, the Balzekas Museum is dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of Lithuanian culture. The Museum celebrates the notable achievements of Lithuanian Americans, the Lithuanian nation, and Lithuanian communities world wide. The Balzekas Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

History:

The Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian culture was founded in 1966 by Stanley Balzekas, Jr., in a two-flat building at 4012 S. Archer Avenue, next to the Balzekas Motor Sales automobile dealership in Chicago's Brighton Park neighborhood. The basis for the Museum's collection was the Balzekas family's collection of rare maps, armor, and art. Other major gifts and purchases followed. With the help of an active core of volunteers, the museum's collections, exhibitions and programs developed.

The Museum moved to its present location, at 6500 South Pulaski Road in 1986. After extensive remodeling, the former Von Solbrig Hospital building was turned into a modern museum with a permanent exhibition hall, art galleries, a library, a children's museum, a ballroom, a theater, workshops, and offices. The Museum has approximately 2,700 active members.