The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s Kline Creek Farm at1N600 County Farm Road in West Chicago invites visitors to 1890s fun in the fields during “Corn Harvest” on Oct. 11, 12 and 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
After a quick trip to “corn college,” visitors can hit the fields at this living-history farm and pick some of the corn that will feed its cows and sheep in winter. They can help “shuck” — peel the husks from the ears — and “shock” — bundle full stalks to dry — and when the horse-drawn wagon in the field is full they can help store the harvest in the corn crib.
At the farmhouse, visitors can make corn-husk figures and tour the 19th-century home. They can also visit the barn, chicken coop, sheep fold and other buildings on this 200-acre farmstead. Volunteer beekeepers will be on hand to answer questions in the honey house, and on Saturday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., the blacksmith will demonstrate the tools and techniques of the trade in the wagon shed. The Timber Ridge Visitor Center will be open all three days so visitors can view exhibits and shop for gifts, such as toys, games, books and clothing.
Registration is not required for this free program, and activities are ongoing. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes for walking in the fields and bring work gloves, if available, for handling the corn and stalks.
For more information on “Corn Harvest” and other 1890s activities, call the farm at 630-876-5900.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County owns and manages 25,000 acres of prairies, woodlands and wetlands. Each year its 60 forest preserves, 145 miles of trails, five education centers and scores of programs welcome over 4 million visitors. For information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the District’s e-newsletter, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube pages.