The Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., is excited to debut its next original exhibit, Acre by Acre: Our Farming Heritage, March 14 – August 10, 2025. The new exhibition will explore how early settlers transformed the land in which Elmhurst sits today into a thriving farming community and delves into the rich history of farming throughout the western suburbs. Through historic artifacts, photos, and a variety of interactive elements, from allowing visitors to try out historic farm tools and chores to a play Farmers Market, this vibrant, family-friendly exhibit will showcase the evolution of the agricultural industry in DuPage County. Would you be interested in covering the exhibition? Sarah Cox, Curator of Exhibits, is also available to discuss the exhibit and speak to the early days of farming the Chicagoland area, challenges local farmers faced, including transitioning from subsistence farming to commercial farming, the impact of mechanized farming equipment, and more.
The exhibit will also be supported by numerous public events, including:
- “Babe” Film Screening: Friday, April 4; 2 p.m.
Enjoy a free viewing of the 1995 classic, “Babe,” a heartwarming and fun story about finding your place in the world, at the Elmhurst Public Library. All ages. No registration required.
- Acre by Acre: Our Farming Heritage Gallery Talk: Sunday, April 13; 12 p.m.
Join Elmhurst History Museum Curator of Exhibits, Sarah Cox, for an exclusive guided tour of the museum’s latest exhibit and discover how early settlers transformed the Elmhurst area into a thriving farming community. Sarah will dive into notable local farming families, the evolution of the Chicagoland farming industry, and reveal how this once-farming town developed into the bustling suburb we know today.
- Mother’s Day Bouquets Workshop: Saturday, May 10, 1-2:30 p.m.
Create a unique floral arrangement for Mother’s Day as we partner with the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners. Workshop attendees will create beautiful spring arrangements through the instruction of Illinois Master Gardener Marlene Ashby. All materials, including flowers and vases, will be provided. Attendees are welcome to bring their own flowers if they wish. Light bites and beverages will be available. Space is limited to 15. $30/person.
- Community Roots Lecture: Sunday, May 18; 12 p.m.
Visit the Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse for an immersive look into the early days of DuPage County with local historian Jonathan Sebastian. At this National Register of Historic Places, together with Fischer Farm and nearby Zion Lutheran Church, learn how early settlers lived, worked, worshipped, and how they were educated. Peek into incredible local history and learn how this community started. Space is limited to 30.
- Family Farm Fest: Sunday, July 13; 1 – 4 p.m.
Join the Elmhurst History Museum for a family-friendly visit back in time to the early days of Elmhurst. Enjoy live music from Bluegrass band Bourbon Aristocracy, meet chickens, goats, and llamas at the petting zoo, touch a historic tractor, learn about harvesting honey from a beekeeper, try your hand at old fashioned farm chores, and more!
