Seasonal events like the Summer Harvest Festival and patriotic celebrations, including the Reading of the Declaration of Independence, offer food, entertainment, family-friendly fun, and popular attractions such as the Big Rig Show.
The Franklin Grove Area Historical Society hosts a variety of public and private events throughout the year that help support preservation efforts and bring history to life. With more than 30 acres of open land and historic structures, the site is ideal for educational programs, reenactments, community gatherings, and special events.
Seasonal events like the Summer Harvest Festival and patriotic celebrations, including the Reading of the Declaration of Independence, offer food, entertainment, family-friendly fun, and popular attractions such as the Big Rig Show.
Historic reenactments, including Civil War and World War II events, bring the past to life with encampments, demonstrations, and interactive learning experiences.
Upcoming plans include restoring the Kelly House interior and upstairs, building a line shaft in Blacksmith shop, garage doors on storage shed behind Blacksmith shop, electricity to exterior buildings, building a pavilion, constructing a building material storage area and hosting future events such as a WWII reenactment, music festivals, and a community 5K run.
Local artisans and vendors showcase their goods, creating lively marketplaces for the community while helping fund restoration projects.
Hands-on learning experiences, school tours, and interactive demonstrations provide opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore history, nature, and early life on the Illinois prairie.
The Scott Barn and select areas of the property are available for weddings, anniversaries, and private gatherings. Members can enjoy discounted rates, and each event supports the preservation of our historic site.