As non-native people moved to Chicago—or Checagou, as the native people of the area called it—they had to decide what to bring with them. In today’s activity, kids will reflect on, write about, and draw what they would bring if they moved to a new place.

What makes an object precious? Is it useful or does it remind you of happy memories? Ask your kids to think about what items are important to them and write out the reasons why. Then, have them illustrate the objects they listed.When they’re done, take a picture of their work and share it on social media! #CHMatHomeFamilies

ABOUT THE CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

The Chicago History Museum is situated on ancestral homelands of the Potawatomi people, who cared for the land until forced out by non-Native settlers. Established in 1856, the Museum is now at 1601 N. Clark Street in Lincoln Park, its third location. As a major museum and research center for Chicago and U.S. history, the Chicago History Museum strives to be a destination for learning, inspiration and civic engagement. Through dynamic exhibitions, tours, publications, special events and programming, the Museum connects people to Chicago’s history and to each other. To share Chicago stories, the Museum collects and preserves millions of artifacts, documents, images and other items that are relevant to the city’s history. The Museum gratefully acknowledges the support of the Chicago Park District on behalf of the people of Chicago.