Rudolf G. Schade Archives and Special Collections

Stained Glass Window in Dinkmeyer Hall

Mission of the Rudolf G. Schade Archives

The Rudolf G. Schade Archives is the institutional memory of Elmhurst College. Founded in 1871 by the German Evangelical Church (now part of the United Church of Christ), the College has long been an integral part of the city of Elmhurst, Illinois. The mission of the Rudolf G. Schade Archives is to serve Elmhurst College, the surrounding community, and the Church by identifying, preserving, organizing, and making accessible its records of enduring value.

Find out more information about the Archives and its policies.

Expanded Mission

The goals of the Rudolf G. Schade Archives are:

• To be a resource for the faculty and students of Elmhurst College;
• To provide administrative support to College staff;
• To document the heritage of the College and its role in the history of the liberal German religious community in the Midwest;
• To document the changing face of the College, particularly as it has become more secular in nature;
• To provide the people of Elmhurst with information on the history of the College that has been an important part of the community since 1871.

Online Exhibits

Illinois Digital Archives – Browse the Collections

Choose “Social Justice and Activism at Elmhurst College” to see a selection of images surrounding student social protest and action at Elmhurst since the 1930’s.

Renew Your Elmhurst Memories

Download this PowerPoint about Homecomings at Elmhurst College

Collections

• College Archives
• Niebuhr Materials
• Special Collections

In naming the Archives, Elmhurst College remembers the life of Rudolf G. Schade (1908-2000), professor of history, archivist, and great friend to Elmhurst College. He was regarded by many as “the greatest institutional presence the College has ever known.”