Home // Library // Museum

The University Museum, in the lower level of the Feehan Library, displays objects illustrating the vibrant history of the University and the Archdiocese.  Interested in visiting the museum? Request a Tour (AskALibrarian@usml.edu).

Highlights include:

  • A collection of historical chalices
  • Personal items belonging to Cardinals Mundelein, Stritch, Cody and George.  
  • A crucifix created by the Italian Renaissance artist Donatello.  
  • Reliquaries dating from the 14th through the 20th century.

George Cardinal Mundelein was an avid collector, and his acquisitions of art, rare books and manuscripts form the core of the University’s museum collection. The Mundelein Manuscripts Collection includes more than 300 letters from canonized and beatified saints, comprising the most extensive collection of its kind in the world outside the Vatican.  

The University has had the privilege of partnering with other historic and cultural institutions, including the Illinois Digital Archives, the Chicago History Museum and the Lake County Forest Preserve District Discovery Museum. If you are a cultural institution inquiring about loaning one of our items, please contact Samantha Seay, sseay@usml.edu.

Papal Medallions

Posted on
In the late 16th century, tourism to Rome and the Vatican began to flourish, particularly among young noblemen who were expected to travel across Europe as part of their education….
Read Papal Medallions

Dr. L.D. Moorehead

Posted on
The museum located within Feehan Library features a distinguished collection dedicated to Dr. L.D. Moorehead, the personal physician to Cardinal George Mundelein. Deeply respected and trusted, Dr. Moorehead earned admiration…
Read Dr. L.D. Moorehead

The Traveling Crosses

Posted on
Most items in our museum are the result of very generous benefactors.  Mrs. Olive Wasem is one such benefactor.  While not of great monetary value, the collection of crosses and…
Read The Traveling Crosses