Building history in Plano, Illinois

The Homestead 1854 is a historic institution located at 611 East Main Street in Plano, Illinois, United States. Established in 1854, this charming venue offers a glimpse into the past with its beautifully preserved architecture and decor. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the history of the area through guided tours and interactive exhibits. The Homestead 1854 also hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs for all ages, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a unique experience, The Homestead 1854 is a must-visit destination in Plano.

The Kendall County Outdoor Education Center, located at 11285 Fox Road in Yorkville, Illinois, is a local government office that offers quality outdoor learning experiences for students in the Yorkville, Plano, and Sandwich school districts. Since 1970, the center has provided opportunities for experiential learning in a variety of natural environments, including prairies, hardwood forests, streams, and the Fox River. With outdoor teaching stations, a classroom, a challenge course, and a living history area, the KCOEC aims to enhance the standard school curriculum while promoting student decision-making, self-confidence, teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship. The center offers one-day programs and multi-day summer trips for over 8,000 participants each year, ranging from pre-kindergarten through high school and adults. Lessons cover environmental science, living history, map and compass skills, and team building, with customized programs developed in collaboration with classroom teachers. For more information, contact Director Danielle Oberbroeckling at 630-273-5467 or visit the Regional Office of Education at 109 West Ridge Street in Yorkville.

The Kendall County Outdoor Education Center (KCOEC) is a school located at 13689 West Fox Road in Yorkville, Illinois, United States. The center, which is part of the Hoover Forest Preserve, has been providing outdoor learning experiences for students from the Yorkville, Plano, and Sandwich school districts since 1970. With access to prairies, forests, streams, and the Fox River, the KCOEC offers a unique educational setting for students to learn about environmental science, living history, map and compass skills, and team building. The center's mission is to provide experiential learning opportunities in an outdoor setting, promoting self-confidence, leadership development, and environmental stewardship. With programs for students of all ages, the KCOEC serves over 8,000 participants each year through one-day experiences and multi-day summer trips. For more information, contact Director Danielle Oberbroeckling at 630-273-5467.

The Edith Farnsworth House, located at 14520 River Road in Plano, Illinois, is a renowned museum and tourist attraction. While the house itself is famous for its modern architecture, the surrounding land has a rich history dating back centuries. Originally part of the Chicago Tribune Experimental Farms owned by Colonel Robert R. McCormick, the site was later acquired by Edith Farnsworth in 1945. Over the years, the land has been developed and preserved by various owners, including Peter Palumbo, who added naturalistic landscaping and sculpture to the nearly 60-acre property. The Farnsworth site continues to inspire visitors from around the world, offering a unique blend of history, art, and nature.