We think of the Era of Illinois as “The Prairie State” to be impossibly remote and bucolic. But the farmers who came to this part of Illinois were practical, scientific, literate and above all, hard working. Join Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Archaeologist and Tribal Liaison Joe Wheeler to discover the people who broke the sod and developed so many of the things we take for granted as part of the modern northeast Illinois landscape, from siloes to “The Corn Belt.” The presentation will focus on the years from 1830 to 1880 when the tallgrass prairie sod disappeared under the sizzle of the breaking plow as Eastern farmers transformed the landscape. Pre-registration is recommended but walk-in registration at the door is welcomed. Hosted by the Oswegoland Heritage Association in partnership with the Oswegoland Park District. Suitable for ages 16+. $5.00 R/N.
