Franklin Grove Area Historical Society
Preserving the Past on the Prairie for Future Generations.
Preserving the Past on the Prairie for Future Generations.
In the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society; perched atop a quiet hill surrounded by prairie and woods, the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society preserves a rare collection of historic buildings in Chaplin Creek Historic Village that tell the story of everyday life from the 19th and early 20th centuries. What was once open farmland is now a peaceful, living-history site where visitors can step back in time and experience Illinois history in an authentic outdoor setting.
With more than 30 acres to explore and 17 historic structures relocated to the property, the site is one of the largest reenactment and educational locations in the Midwest. Tours are available by appointment, and public events throughout the year invite guests to reconnect with history, nature, and community while supporting a vital preservation mission.
Learn about the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society and our mission to preserve and protect historic structures from the 1800s and 1900s can be seen at Chaplin Creek Historic Village. Discover how decades of dedication, fundraising, and community partnerships keep this unique site alive.
Experience living history through reenactments, festivals, tours, and community gatherings held throughout the year. Our events bring local, state, and national history to life on one of the largest reenactment sites in Illinois.
Become part of a nonprofit organization committed to historic preservation and education. Membership supports restoration efforts and provides exclusive access to the grounds, events, and special opportunities.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
