MISSION OF CONCORDIA HISTORICAL INSTITUTE

Concordia Historical Institute, as the official department of archives and history of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, serves as general advisory agency for historical interests within synodical offices, departments, educational institutions and congregations.
CHI is charged with preserving and promoting Lutheran history, especially the history surrounding the LCMS. This is done through actively collecting, organizing, cataloging and preserving relevant documents, photographs, books, artifacts, and fine art — and making these historical items available to inform and inspire the church and community.

VISION OF CONCORDIA HISTORICAL INSTITUTE

Concordia Historical Institute strives to be the premier provider of Lutheran historical resources in North America.

MUSEUMS

Concordia Historical Institute has two museums - one at the LCMS International Center headquarters in Kirkwood, Missouri, and the other at the exhibit hall of CHI on the campus of Concordia Seminary in Clayton, Missouri, are both open.

RESEARCH

It is recommended you make an appointment to conduct historical research at the CHI building.

Please contact CHI with any questions or concerns at: 314-505-7900

 

Rediscover your history

Join us as we rediscover the rich history of the Lutheran Church—through our museums, libraries and the largest archival collection of Lutheran historical documents in North America. Are you thinking of researching some aspect of Lutheran history? Do you have a passion for preserving and proclaiming the legacy of Lutheran congregations, schools, and social service institutions? Concordia Historical Institute can help. Join hundreds of CHI members and volunteers as we “move Lutheran history forward—together.”

Exhibits

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Visit Our Museums

  • Venue

    Concordia Historical Institute

    Concordia Historical Institute seeks to move Lutheran history forward with artifacts, documents and pictures from its collection. Here you can find information on our current exhibit. HOURS Open weekdays, 9:00…

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  • Venue

    CHI Museum at the International Center

    Stand before a reproduction of the Castle Church doors on which Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses.  View a selection of Luther’s writings.  Walk among trunks and personal items like…

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What our visitors saying about their experience

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