Community Corner
Celebrate the pioneer past of Downers Grove with Country in the Park on May 6
Visit Downers Grove Museum during Downers Grove Founders Day celebration.
DOWNERS GROVE—Spend a spring day with Downers Grove Park District at
Country in the Park from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 6, at Wandschneider Park and Downers Grove Museum Campus located at 831 Maple Ave.
As part of the annual Downers Grove Founders Day celebration, Country in the Park is a free event sponsored by The Grove Foundation. Families will visit with farm animals, play 1850’s pioneer-era games, view blacksmithing demonstrations and more!
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“Country in the Park is a great opportunity for families to enjoy a fun and educational day together as they learn about the history of Downer Grove through demonstrations and hands-on activities,” said Shannon Forsythe, Manager of Natural Resources and Interpretive Services for Downers Grove Park District.
This year, the Downers Grove Historical Society recognizes Israel Blodgett as Founder of the Year. In 1836, Blodgett and his family settled in Downers Grove where they built the 1846 Pioneer Blodgett House and started a successful blacksmith shop on Maple Avenue.
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Visitors can learn more about the life of Israel Blodgett at the Victorian Blodgett House located on the museum campus. Get a glimpse of the recent updates and newly acquired Blodgett family artifacts including a beautiful 1910’s dining set and other period furniture. Several rooms in the house have been rearranged and renovated to feature the generous donations in a historical interpretation of the home’s original layout.
In addition to Country in the Park, community organizations will host a variety of activities throughout Founders Day weekend. For more information, visit downersgrovehistory.org.
About Downers Grove Park District
The Downers Grove Park District is dedicated to enriching our community through natural area preservation and exceptional recreation, parks, and facilities that inspire memorable experiences. With almost 600 acres of parks and facilities, there are thousands of opportunities for individuals of all ages and interests to grow, play, imagine and explore. For more information, call 630.963.1300 or visit www.dgparks.org.
