For a few memorable years in the 1960s, Arlington Heights became an unexpected destination for rock ’n’ roll fans. The Cellar, a teen club that hosted some of the era’s most recognizable musical acts, gave local music lovers the chance to see rising stars and legendary performers right in their own backyard. Now, the Arlington Heights Historical Museum is inviting the community to revisit those memories and help preserve the story of this iconic venue.
The museum will host “Tell Your Cellar Story” on Saturday, October 17, from 2–4 PM, bringing together former attendees, musicians and anyone with a connection to The Cellar to share their experiences.
Operating from approximately 1965 to 1970, The Cellar quickly became a destination for music fans throughout the Chicago suburbs. Its stage welcomed nationally recognized artists, including The Who, Cream, Buffalo Springfield, Steppenwolf and Three Dog Night. The venue also provided local bands with a place to perform, connect with audiences and build their reputations.
The Cellar originally opened in a basement space on Eastman Street. As its popularity grew, it moved to a larger warehouse near Davis Street and Salem Avenue, accommodating more fans eager to experience the music and atmosphere that made the venue special.
For those who attended, The Cellar was more than a place to hear live music. It was where friendships formed, favorite bands took the stage and lasting memories were made.
Tell Your Cellar Story” offers community members an opportunity to share those memories and contribute to the historical record of Arlington Heights. Former owner and promoter Paul Sampson will attend the event, offering another connection to the venue’s history and the people who helped make it a destination for local and nationally known performers.
“Places like The Cellar are more than buildings or businesses—they are places where people made memories that stayed with them for decades,” said Museum Director Jeff Anderson. “We’re excited to bring people together to hear those firsthand stories and preserve a piece of Arlington Heights history that is still very meaningful to so many people in our community.”
The museum welcomes anyone with memories, photographs, memorabilia or stories connected to The Cellar. Whether you attended a show, performed on its stage or simply remember hearing about the venue, your perspective can help preserve this unique chapter of local history.
Event Details
- What: Tell Your Cellar Story
- When: Saturday, October 17, 2–4 PM
- Where: Arlington Heights Historical Museum
- Registration: Not required, but encouraged for those planning to share a story
The Arlington Heights Historical Museum continues to preserve and share the people, places and experiences that have shaped the community. Join the conversation and help keep The Cellar’s story alive for future generations.
