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Experience

BUREAU COUNTY

Illinois

2025

You’re invited to visit beautiful Bureau County. Come see what we have to offer!

VISITORS INFORMATION GUIDE

Bureau County History Center

2025 Event Calendar Date/Time

Event

Location

May Sat., 5/3, 1:30pm

ISHS Presenter – Kristan H. McKinsey “Exploring Local History Through the Lives of Women PAC Artists”

Sat., 5/24, 12-5pm

Matson Open House

Sash-StalterMatson

June your portrait! With face painting, ice cream, Sash-StalterSat., 6/21, 10am-1pm Paint Matson Green storytime and more Space July Sat., 7/12, 2pm

Kathy Bauer 170th Fair Presentation

PAC

Sat., 7/19

DAR American Revolution Experience Exhibit through August 1, 2025

American Legion

Sat., 7/26

Portrait Exhibit Last Day

Newell Bryant

Sat., 8/9, 2pm

Bucky Halker, “Down in the Mine: American Coal Miners & Their Songs, 1890-1960”

Holy Trinity, Cherry Hall

Wed., 8/20

BCHS booth at the Bureau County Fair through August 24, 2025

Fairgrounds

Thurs., 8/21

Business After Hours

Sash-StalterMatson

Thurs., 9/4, Noon

Immke Exhibit Opens

BCHC Campus

Sat., 9/27, 2pm

K. Hamilton-Smith Postcards Presentation

PAC

Voices of the Matson

Metro Center

2025 Annual Meeting

Metro Center

Holiday Open House

Clack Norris

August

September

October Sat., 10/25 November Thurs., 11/13 December Sat., 12/13

PAC= Prairie Arts Center

All dates and times are subject to change. Visit our website, www.bureauhistory.org, for current information.

Camels march inDays the Pow Wowskilwa. parade in Ti

BUREAU COUNTY SIMPLE PLEASURES, HIDDEN TREASURES gorgeous spot to live and visit, Bureau County is full of friendly people who love the simple pleasures and hidden treasures the county has to offer. This guide barely skims the surface of the many events, small and large, that take place throughout the county each year. Located in North Central Illinois, Bureau County sits 100 miles west of Chicago, one hour east of the Quad Cities, and one hour north of Peoria. Princeton, the county seat of Bureau County, is an Amtrak community with a depot that services thousands of people each year. Eastbound trains go to Chicago’s Union Station daily, or you can hop on the California Zephyr to head west. Interstate 80 runs right through the middle of the county, making it easily accessible to visitors. As you travel down Interstate 80, watch for the four majestic Flags of Freedom that honor our veterans and are located at Exit 56 in Princeton. With 869 square miles of fertile farmland, beautiful rural countryside, and unique villages and towns, Bureau County is full of history and growth. We hope you’ll visit the many

communities in our county. Each one has something special to offer, including historical sites, antique shops, recreational areas, festivals, museums, and great shopping experiences. Watch our Facebook page for information about community festivals, Festival 56 theater performances, 5K races, and much more. This guide also features many of our area museums, parks, and golf courses and information about the 101 colorful barn quilts at 88 locations within the county. If you’re a fan of nature or quieter activities, spend an idyllic day fishing or walking along the Hennepin Canal. Along its historic and tranquil banks, you’ll find areas for camping, fishing, bicycling, and more. When you visit the county, make sure to stop by the tantalizing restaurants that specialize in delicious fried chicken and other homestyle specialties. As you plan your visit, we hope you’ll plan an overnight stay to fully experience all the charm of Bureau County. With something for everyone in the family to enjoy, you’ll want to come back again and again to experience all of the simple pleasures and hidden treasures awaiting you. WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 3

Hennepin Canal Lift Bridge

Experience

BUREAU COUNTY, ILLINOIS

2025 VISITORS INFORMATION GUIDE

BUREAU COUNTY TOURISM COMMITTEE 205 S. 5th St. | Princeton, IL 61356 www.bureaucounty-il.gov/tourism (815) 866-3606 | kathybctourism@yahoo.com

What’s INSIDE

Where is Bureau County? �� 6 Map of Bureau County �� 8 Places to Stay ��10 Family Fun �� 12

Follow the QR code to visit our website or follow us on Facebook at Bureau County Tourism.

This tourism guide was produced by Shaw Media on behalf of the Bureau County Tourism Committee. 2025-05/5,000 Photos contributed by Jannifer C. Powelson, Kathy Bauer and Shaw Media

Calendar of Events ��16 Oustanding Car Shows �� 24 Shadows of the Blue and Gray �� 25 Holiday Events ��26 Flags of Freedom �� 31 Museums �� 32 The Owen Lovejoy Home �� 35 Parks �� 36 Hungry World Farm �� 42 Hennepin Canal ��44 Covered Bridges ��49 Join the Fun in Spring Valley �� 52 Barn Quilts �� 54

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Content has been provided by the Bureau County Tourism committee. Every attempt has been made to verify the information provided in this publication. For all events and programs, check websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information, or call ahead. Bureau County Tourism is not responsible for incorrect, outdated or omitted information. The Bureau County Tourism committee would like to thank our advertisers in the 2025 Tourism Guide. We couldn’t present this guide without them. If you see their advertisement in this guide, please let them know you saw it.

Experience What Spring Valley Has to Offer

Spring Creek Golf Course Spring Valley’s public 18-hole public course voted Illinois Valley’s First Choice in Golf Courses for 25 years and Bureau County’s Favorite Golf Course. Conveniently located south of I-80, Exit 70. Call 815.894.2137 to schedule a tee time. www.springcreek-golfcourse.com www.facebook.com/SpringCreekGC

access to the Illinois River for forty miles. Located on the northwest side of the Spring Valley Bridge, adjacent to Route 89 springvalleyil.us

Seven City Parks The parks offer a variety of amenities for outdoor recreation and relaxation including picnic areas, playgrounds, sporting fields and courts for organized and individual play, Echo Bluff Park and Recreational Area an outdoor pool, a band stage for summer The area’s finest family nature and recreation municipal band concerts and special musical park located in beautiful and historic Hall events, a stocked fishing pond and more. Township, off Route 29 between Spring Valley springvalleyil.us and DePue, Illinois. Over 7,000 yards of trails, disc golf, paintball Annual Events courses, a picnic shelter & fire pits, premiere We know how to have fun. ice skating rink, high ropes and zip line Races, Fishing tournaments, car shows, challenge courses. Children’s winter and music, garages sales, farmers markets, summer camps. vendors shows, shop local events, youth http://www.echobluff.org/ camps, parades and more. https://www.facebook.com/echo.bluff.3 Visit Spring Valley’s Calendar of Events at to see what’s in store for this year! Barto Boat Landing springvalleyil.us Excellent boating, fishing and water sport https://www.facebook.com/City-of-Springopportunities. Its deep lagoon for launching from the ramps is the only calm-water public Valley-IL springvalleyil.us

facebook.com/City-of-Spring-Valley-IL

Spring Valley

Simple Pleasures

Where is

Hidden Treasures

BUREAU COUNTY?

Where exactly is Bureau County? We are located in North Central Illinois, just about halfway between Chicago and the Quad Cities and 50 miles north of Peoria.

If you have traveled across Illinois on Interstate 80, you probably passed right through Bureau County and might not have even known it. In the summer months, you may have noticed the four Flags of Freedom located right next to the interstate at Exit 56. This beautiful tribute to our country is celebrating its 20th year in 2025. The huge American flags were placed in the four locations next to the interstate in September 2005. They each weigh 100 pounds and measure 30 by 60 feet. The Flags of Freedom is an excellent place for you to start when you come to Bureau County to enjoy the many unique activities and locations we have to offer. Bureau County is the home of two covered bridges – the Red Covered Bride and the

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Captain Swift Covered Bridge. If you go one mile north of the flags on Route 26, you will come to a sign for the Red Covered Bridge. Park nearby and you will have a lovely view of the bridge, and you can hear the Big Bureau Creek as it meanders across the county. To get to the Captain Swift Bridge, take West Railroad Avenue to Epperson Road and turn left. Those who are interested in having wholesome family fun will enjoy Bureau County, with its frequent local fairs and festivals. Car shows are popular in the county, and there are many to choose from during the spring, summer, and fall months. Bureau County is a great place to eat. Fried chicken is a specialty in most local restaurants and taverns. Rip’s Chicken in Ladd is known around the world and has served fried chicken since 1936. Verucchi’s Ristorante in Spring Valley has served delicious Italian specialties since its founding in 1914.

The soldiers have their encampments in the shady park. Peek into their tents, and you will see the items necessary for life in the 1860s. You can probably find President Abraham Lincoln there talking to the people enjoying the event. This year’s Shadows of the Blue and Gray will be held on October 11 and 12, 2025. Come to the park and enjoy watching the living history unfold in front of you.

You may have entered Bureau County on Amtrak. The train depot in Princeton was built in the early 1900s and has seen millions of travelers cross its doorways over the years. Many people from central Illinois use the Princeton Depot to travel to Chicago or as far as the west coast. Many Princeton residents use Amtrak to travel to the city to work each day. Many of them came to Princeton as visitors and returned to buy a home and stay as a part of the community. A trip to Princeton from Chicago on the train is a bargain. Riding the train through the countryside allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without having to battle the traffic and the weather.

WHERE IS BUREAU COUNTY

Just a little further up Route 26 from the Red Covered Bridge is the City-County Park. There you will find a log cabin where you can have a picnic, complete with a fire in the huge stone fireplace. The park has many picnic areas, swings, and slides for the kids, and a lot of open spaces. The annual “Shadows of the Blue and Gray” Civil War reenactment is held here in the fall. As the cannons fire and the soldiers come out of the trees to join the battle, you can imagine how it looked over 160 years ago.

We hope that when you come to visit Bureau County, you will stay in one of our hotels or beds and breakfasts and spend a weekend here. We have so many unique places to see and fun things to do that one day just won’t be enough time.

Botanical Gardens Destination Garden Center Arboretum NEW Native Line 400+ Hosta Varieties Workshops Garden Decor & Gifts Polywood Dealer Princeton, IL www.hornbakergardens.com

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Knights Inn

There’s so much to do and see in Bureau County. You’ll need more than a day; there’s plenty of hospitality to go around. 8 w SIMPLE PLEASURES, HIDDEN TREASURES

MAP OF BUREAU COUNTY

Super Sleep Inn

Super Stay Inn Knox Hotel

Spring Valley SpringInn Valley Inn

Spring SpringValley ValleyInn Inn

ChapelChapel Hill Hill Golf Course Golf Course Chapel Chapel Hill Hill Golf Golf Course Course

Find Findoutoutmore moreabout about Find out more about

BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL BUREAU COUNTY, IL BUREAU COUNTY, IL BUREAU COUNTY, IL

www.bureaucounty-il.com www.bureaucounty-il.com www.bureaucounty-il.com

WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 9

Places to

STAY

From hotels to B&BS, from rustic cabins to fabulous apartments, we hope you enjoy your stay and come back to Bureau County often!

BED & BREAKFAST

Sugar Maple Inn – Tiskilwa Spoil yourself in our upscale rustic accommodations with a fabulous gourmet chef’s kitchen, grill area, and spa area featuring a hot tub and outdoor rain shower. Visit our website sugarmaplelodging.com and check out our two locations in Princeton – The Cottage and The Yellowstone – fabulous custom kitchen, grill area, features a hot tub and fire table (both locations sleep 6+ guests). The Tiskilwa Inn We offer unique farm/stay options with our sister property, Tiskilwa Farms Alpacas. Enjoy a weekend stay at the inn, complete with a gourmet breakfast each morning, and spend your days on the farm. Located at 155 N. High St., Tiskilwa, the Tiskilwa Inn can be reached at 815-646-1300 or www.thetiskilwainn.com.

HOTEL/MOTEL

Americinn Lodge & Suites of Princeton Americinn is located at 2120 Claude Bailey Parkway, Princeton. It can be reached by calling 815-872-5000, and the webpage can be accessed at www.americinn.com.

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Super Stay Inn Super Stay Inn is located at 2238 N. Main St., Princeton. It can be reached at 815-875-3371, and its webpage is www.wyndhamhotels.com. Econo Lodge Econo Lodge is located at 2200 N. Main St., Princeton. It can be reached at 815-872-3300, and the webpage is at www.choicehotels.com. The Historic Knox Hotel Located in the heart of Princeton’s historic Main Street, the newly-renovated Knox Hotel offers guests an elegant, vintage experience – accompanied by all of the modern conveniences. Knox Hotel’s address is 956 N. Main St., Princeton, and it can be reached at 815-780-2730 or stay@historicknoxhotel.com. Super Sleep Inn The Super Sleep Inn is located at 2929 N. Main St., Princeton. Call 815-872-8888 or visit www.wyndhamhotels.com. Spring Valley Inn The Spring Valley Inn is located at 32871 U.S. Hwy 6 in Spring Valley. It can be reached at 815-894-2226 Ext. 0 and info@ springvalleymotel.com.

RENTALS, VRBO & AIRBNB

The Flats at Elm Place Stay in five one- or two-bedroom apartments located in Princeton’s Historic District, close to entertainment and dining. For more information and to book your stay, visit www.flatsatelmplace.com. Princeton Quilters Lodge Whether you’re quilting, crafting or just want a place to hang out with friends and family, the Princeton Quilters Cottage is just the place you’ll want to be! In the heart of historic Princeton and within walking distance to Main Street, the cottage sleeps up to 10. For more information and to book your stay, visit www.princetonquilterscottage.com. Chapel Hill B&B Suites Located at Chapel Hill Golf Course, Route 26, Princeton.

Sheffield - The White House Rent in entire home in Sheffield, five bedrooms and sleeps 12 guests. Call or text 850-776-5041. There are several Airbnb and Vrbo homes and apartments in Bureau County. Visit www.airbnb.com or www.vrbo.com.

PLACES TO STAY

Comfort Inn Opening soon in Princeton.

CAMPING

Bureau County Fairgrounds Campground This campground is located at 811 W. Peru St., Princeton. Call 815-303-2905. Hennepin Canal Campgrounds The Hennepin Canal Campgrounds is located at 16006 875 East St., Sheffield, and can be reached at 815-454-2328. Hickory Grove Campground This campground is located at 7478 175 N. Ave., Sheffield. It can be reached at 815-3431214 or 815-454-2600, and you can visit its website at www.hickorygrovecamp.com.

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FAMILY FUN The Bureau County Fair

ureau County offers endless entertainment for the whole family. Here’s a sample of some of our great events. The Bureau County Fair, scheduled for Aug. 20 through Aug. 24, will celebrate 170 years of family entertainment in 2025. A new carnival from Wilson Shows will make their debut in 2025. There will be wristband ride specials every day of the fair. Check out the beautiful photography, textiles, hobbies and collections, artwork, canning and baked goods and see who got the blue ribbons at the exhibit hall. Or better yet, enter your own work and see if you can win an award. Some of the many activities at the fair will include a Veteran’s Day, Senior Citizens’ Day, a performance by country music performer Trace Adkins with special guest Brushville, the Demolition Derby, Power Wheels demo, and Truck and Tractor Pull.

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In addition to that, families enjoy checking out the livestock, horses, free entertainment with live music daily, games for the kids, and finding some delicious fair food to eat. The Fairgrounds is a busy place all year round. Watch the Fair Facebook page or the website www.bureaucountyfair.com for a list of upcoming events like flea markets, garage sales, fundraisers, wedding receptions, pigeon show, gun collectors show, motorcycle swap meets, and more. Bureau County has plenty of other activities to keep families entertained year-long. One of the best-kept secrets in the area near Walnut and 4 miles south of Normandy is Sunset Ridge, which is a family-oriented Motocross and ATV track. The track is approximately 1.6 miles long, with natural and man-made obstacles that have been attracting riders of all abilities for over 20 years. Motorcycle and Quad racers come

One of the favorite locations for gardeners and art lovers is Hornbaker Gardens near Princeton. They are a garden center, an arboretum, and a botanical garden. This business offers all types of garden plants, trees, and flowers, plus artwork pieces for your home and yard. They also have The Barn, a beautiful wedding or meeting venue right next to the gardens. Another event that brings participants from across the nation is the Village of DePue USTS/APBA Pro-National Championship Boat Races. DePue Men’s Club puts on this weekend-long event with exciting power boat races on Lake DePue, daily beer gardens, live music, and many food trailers.

Most of our villages and towns have an annual celebration. Watch for the Bureau County Tourism Facebook updates about the LaMoille’s Buffalo Days, Manlius Day, Tiskilwa’s Pow Wow Days, Wyanet Festival, Buda Fun Day, Mineral July Fireworks, and the many events in Princeton, including the Homestead Festival, Beef & Ag Day, Oktoberfest, Z Tour Bike Ride, Main Street Concerts, and Festival 56.

FAMILY FUN

from all over the nation to race on the twisting dirt track. You can get right next to the action and watch the riders fly over the jumps. The track is located at 24558 1100 East St., Walnut.

HOMESTEAD FESTIVAL

The annual Homestead Festival is four days full of activities from morning to night. While the schedule is still being developed, you can be sure to find the following events – a huge parade, pork chop barbeque, Arts and Crafts show, pancake breakfast, concerts on Main St., a flea market, class reunions, 5K race, a huge car show, 50/50 drawing, a medallion hunt, a baby contest, music, and shopping. This year’s dates are Sept. 4–7.

Your jump off point for all the area’s activities.

Five minutes from Psycho Silo Saloon. Close to Starved Rock State Park, biking on the Z-Tour trails, the charm of downtown Princeton, Owen Lovejoy Homestead, and more.

g Henepin Borderin Cana Canal l State Pa enepin rk and H

Explore Our Campground

Spacious Full Hookup Sites • Big Rig Friendly • Cabin Rentals • Pool • Dog Park Kayak Launch to Canal • Fishing • Access to the Park & Canal for Miles of Biking/Walking 2 Miles North of I-80. 7478 1745 North Ave., Sheffield, IL 61361 (815) 454-2600 • www.hickorygrovecamp.com

SM-LA2230728

WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 13

Visit us at www.avantifoods.com

800-243-3739

Cheese and Specialty Gift Shop 109 Depot Street, Walnut, IL

HOME OF GINO’S PIZZA

son Sea ses pas lable i ava

Challenging, family friendly 9-hole golf course

Designed to Fit You to a Tee Complete pro shop Driving range Lessons available

Club repair Titleist, Callaway, Footjoy, Wilson, Ping Authorized Ping Fitting Centers

1789 1500 N. Ave, Princeton, IL

815-872-2641

SM-LA2230729

four CDGA tee rating

1204 W. Peru St. Princeton, IL 815-875-1200 Open Daily 11am-9pm

“MORE ON 34”

Two County Garage Sales Return for 2025 The “More on 34” event, which will be held Father’s Day weekend, June 13 and 14, is returning as a two-county event for 2025. Communities along Rt. 34 in Bureau and Henry Counties will have garage sales, food stands, and other events. This will include towns across Bureau County including LaMoille, Dover, Princeton, Wyanet, Sheffield and Neponset, and Kewanee, Galva, Altoona, Oneida and Watega in Henry County. Along with the many garage sales, there are spots of special interest that shoppers should stop at. The Psycho Silo Saloon is holding a motorcycle part swap meet those days and special music later in the day. The First Lutheran Church in Princeton is holding its Old Wheels Car show on Saturday. Buffalo Days will be going on in LaMoille all weekend. Bureau County Fairgrounds in Princeton holds two days of garage sales with inside and outside vendors. Princeton will have a Farmer’s Market downtown Saturday morning. In Henry County, Galva will host live music on Sunday night for their Levitt AMP Music Series. Stop by The Filling Station in Bishop Hill for their Father’s Day specials. In nearby Geneseo, their Annual Music Festival will be taking place with music throughout town and vendors in the park. The street corners will be full of signs directing you to individual sales. A list of locations will be

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FAMILY FUN

printed showing where sales are located, and a list of locations will be posted online. Information on how to submit your sale will follow. Watch our websites for updates – www.explorehenrycounty.com and https:// bureaucounty-il.gov/tourism and our Facebook pages. Anyone can participate and set up a sale along the route. Let’s get a lot of sales going and bring back the shoppers to our counties. For more information, contact Kathy Bauer, Bureau County Tourism, at kathybctourism@ yahoo.com or Kelly Wolf, Explore Henry County, at tourism@henrycty.com.

FARMER’S MARKETS

Try picking up your fresh veggies from the local Farmer’s Markets this summer. It’s good for your health, and it’s great for our local economy. Check the schedule for starting dates. Farmer’s Markets are held in Spring Valley, Walnut, Ladd, and Princeton on various days. Along with vegetables, some have baked goods, flowers, and even live music.

Over 100 quality alpacas for breeding or sale.

Check out our website to learn more about alpacas and all that we do at Tiskilwa Farms Alpacas, LLC at www.illinoisalpacas.com

11809 1100 North Ave., Tiskilwa, IL 61368 Call for more information on alpaca sales, breeding and boarding or schedule a farm tour.

816-646-1300

n Spring Valley: Friday night market, 5-9 p.m., June 20 and July 18 n Princeton: Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - noon. n Walnut: Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., May 14, June 11 and 25, July 2, 16, and 30 n Ladd: Monday, 4-6 p.m.

A historical Illinois Bed and Breakfast.

155 High St. Tiskilwa, IL 61368 815-646-1300 thetiskilwainn.com

Products from our Alpacas and other Alpaca themed items. 618 S. Main St. Princeton, IL 61356 Tues-Sat 11 am - 5 pm

Calendar of

EVENTS

ONGOING

n Taps is played at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of each month at the Veteran’s Monument in the War Memorial Park in Ladd as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service men and women. n Princeton Community Band Concerts at Soldiers and Sailors Park on S. Main St. Bring lawn chairs. Free admission, food stand. 6 p.m. June 1, 15, and 29; and July 6, 20, 27. n Ladd Farmers Market, every Monday starting June 9 through September 15 from 4-6 p.m. in War Memorial Park, 301 S. Main Ave. Different food truck each week.

MAY

May 13: Princeton Public Library presents “Growing up X. Sandwiched between the much larger Baby Boomer and Millennial Generations” with Erika Holst at 6 p.m. May 17: Historic Home Tours – City of Princeton Historic Preservation Commission. May 17: Main Street Dance Academy Spring Recital, PHS auditorium. May 23: Music in the Park, Ladd, 6 p.m. - Steve Sharp Band. Food and drinks available during each concert at Players Club Gaming across the street from the park. May 26: Memorial Day services at local

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Shrimpfest & Brew Hullabaloo cemeteries. 11 a.m., Tiskilwa Memorial Day ceremony in the East Park; local U.S. Navy veteran Jennifer Fisher will host Tiskilwa’s annual ceremony. An honor guard, a noteworthy speaker, and other patriotic events will be part of the program. Spring Valley’s Memorial Day Ceremony will be at Valley Memorial Park. May 29 -June 1: Spring Retreat for Women at Pilgrim Park, Princeton, by UU Women’s Connection. Speakers, workshops, bonfire and rituals, games and crafts. May 31: The Tee Box Golf Outing at Spring Creek in Spring Valley.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JUNE

June 5-7: Spring Valley City Wide Garage Sales. June 6: Princeton Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing. June 6: Music in the Park, Ladd, 6 p.m. – Ray’s Rockets. Food and drinks available during each concert at Players Club Gaming across the street from the park. June 6: Tiskilwa Historical Society invites the community to a traditional jazz concert with John Cooper at 7 p.m. See the society’s Facebook page or website at www. tiskilwahistory.org. June 6: Neponset 13th Annual Cruise-In. 5 - 8:30 p.m. June 6-7: Neponset Picnic Days & Alumni - 5-8:30 p.m. June 6; 8 a.m.-noon June 7 June 7: Bureau County Farm Bureau Tractor Trek, starting at Bureau County Fairgrounds and traveling across the county with antique tractors. June 7: The Princeton Mile, 10 a.m. One-mile race course from the Apollo Theater to Rotary Park. 8:30 a.m. packet pickup, Elite Wave. June 7: Jack’s Tap Golf Outing at Spring Creek in Spring Valley.

9 p.m. Music lineup: Noon to 1:30 p.m., Al Brown Trio; 2 to 6 p.m., Brass from the Past; 7 to 9 p.m., American English, Beatles Tribute Band. June 10: Princeton Public Library’s IL Humanities Program with Dennis Stroughmatt, “French Creoles of the Illinois Country: Fiddle Jigs, Creole Folktales and Haunting Ballads” at 6 p.m. June 13-15: Hornbaker Gardens, Open House & Hosta Walk, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. June 13-15: Buffalo Days in LaMoille. Wild Card on the 14th at 8 p.m.; Parade, beer garden, kids’ games, craft and vendor show, food trucks. June 13-14: “More on 34” Father’s Day weekend county garage sales across Bureau and Henry counties.

June 7: Psycho Silo All Truck Show, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Christmas for Kids.

June 13-14: Eighth annual Car and Motorcyle Swap Meet & Car Corral at Psycho Silo Saloon.

June 7: Shrimpfest & Brew Hullaballoo at Rotary Park, Princeton. Music, shrimp, and food trucks. 11 a.m. to

June 14: Homestead Festival Lawn Event, Owen Lovejoy Homestead, Princeton.

June 15: Father’s Day Car Show at Lake Depue, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 19-22: Spring Valley Park Board Summerfest featuring Wilson Family Carnival, live music, food trucks, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, vendor fair on June 20, and fireworks on June 21. June 20: Princeton, Down on Main Summer Street Concert, Mae Estes. Food and fun at 5 p.m., concert at 6 p.m. June 20-Aug. 3: Festival 56 presents Cabaret Series at Grace Theater, Princeton. June 21: The 46th Annual Beef and Ag Festival, Soldiers and Sailors Park in Princeton, food by Bureau County Cattlemen. Music by Flash in the Pan. June 21: Spring Valley Fireworks at dusk. June 21: The 13th Annual Z Tour Bike ride, Princeton, benefitting the Zearing Child Enrichment Center. The routes will feature loops that incorporate hills, rolling terrain, beautiful views of Bureau Creek with minimal traffic, beginning and ending at Princeton’s beautiful Zearing Park.

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Lake DePue PRO National Championship Boat Races June 21: Bike Fest by the Bike Place, Princeton. June 22: The first Barrel Society Golf Outing, Hidden Lake Golf Club, Sheffield. 10 a.m. June 27–July 5: “Hairspray the Musical” by Festival 56. June 28: Psycho Silo Saloon, Big Boys & Big Toys Semi Truck & Trailer Show. June 28: Third annual Motor Mob Car Show, Princeton Moose Lodge, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lots of different classes and lunch served by the Moose Lodge.

JULY

July 4: Arukah Institute of Healing, Color Run. Soldiers and Sailors Park in Princeton. July 4: Princeton’s 4th of July Celebration, Zearing Park. Fireworks at dusk, music by Birdchild. July 4–6: Walnut Celebration Days. Beer Garden with “Greenfield Station” on the 4th; July 5th, Dirt Road Rockers, Chad Sarver Memorial Car Show, volleyball tournament, parade, wrestling, food trucks, inflatables, petting zoo, pedal pull, and huge

32nd ANNUAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD

5K 2025

fireworks show on Sunday night. July 6–30: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by Festival 56. July 10-12: Bureau County 4H Fair, Bureau County Fairgrounds. July 10-12: Wyanet Summer Festival with live entertainment, craft and vendor show, heart walk, petting zoo and barrel rides, kids’ pedal pulls, beer garden, food stands, music and more. July 11: DePue Downtown Car Cruise from 4-8 p.m. at Silver Dome bar and grill.

Saturday, September 6th, 2025 Registration-7am | Race-8:30am

Princeton Park District Register online at: https://runsignup.com/ugrr5k

837 Park Ave. West • Princeton, IL

815-872-0840

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July 12: Sheffield Tractor Pull, Psycho Silo Saloon. July 18: Princeton, Down on Main Summer Street Concert, Dave Matthews Tribute Band. Food and fun at 5 p.m., concert at 6 p.m. July 18: Grow Spring Valley Friday Night Market. July 19: Psycho Silo Car Show, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Langley. July 19: Convoy Against Cancer Big Truck Show, Ladd. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. On Main Ave., DJ/music, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, food, and lemon shake-ups. July 19: A&B Garage Annual Car Cruise and Open House in Ladd, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., in A&B Garage parking lot, 235 N. Main, plus 50/50 raffle. July 19: Buda Fun Day, Stewart Park. Parade at 11 a.m., food and fun at the park until 4 p.m. July 20: Hornbaker Gardens, Hosta Event at 1 p.m.

July 23-27: 2025 Lake DePue PRO National Championship Boat Races. On July 23, noon to 5:30 p.m., sanctioned testing; 11 a.m., food vendors open; noon, beer garden opens; 6 to 8 p.m. and 8 to 11 p.m., live music (free admission). On July 24, noon to 5:30 p.m., sanctioned testing; 11 a.m, food vendors open; noon, beer garden opens; 7 to 10 p.m. live music (free admission). On July 25, noon, championship boat racing; 11 a.m., food vendors open; noon, beer gardens open; 8 p.m. to midnight, live music and dancing (free admission). On July 26, noon, championship boat racing; 11 a.m., food vendors open; noon, beer gardens open; 8 p.m. to midnight, live music and dancing (free admission). On July 27, 12:30 p.m., championship boat racing; 11 a.m., food vendors open; noon, beer gardens open; and 6:30 p.m., award ceremony and raffle drawing. July 26-28: Sheffield Festival, carnival and entertainment.

July 25–Aug. 3: “The Little Mermaid” by Festival 56. July 27: Cruisin’ Main Street, Rotary Park, Princeton. 1-4 p.m. Fundraiser for Christmas for Kids. Parade at 2:30 p.m.

AUGUST

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

July 11-20: “Carrie: the Musical” by Festival 56.

TBA: Grand Opening Celebration for the Spring Valley Community/Event Center and Mini Park Concession Stand. Aug. 1-3: Tiskilwa’s Pow Wow Days hosted by Tiskilwa Community Association. On Friday afternoon and evening, there will be kids’ games, live music, and a beer garden. Saturday events include a parade, water rides and blow-ups, lunch, bean bag tournament, live music, and a beer garden. Brushville, 8-11 p.m. Friday. Hairbangers Ball, 8 p.m. Saturday. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, visit the Museum on Main and Gallery on Galena to view exhibits. Aug. 3: Sheffield Charity Car Show, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 300 block of S. Church St., Sheffield. Proceeds to Sheffield Food Pantry.

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Bureau County Homestead Festival

Aug. 4: The Richard A. Mautino Memorial Library in Spring Valley will host Gerald Savage at 6 p.m. He will be speaking about HoChunk History. He carries on his grandfather’s tradition of teaching people about their tribal ways.

Bureau County Fair, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton. Veteran’s Program, Concert with Trace Adkins and Brushville, Demolition Derby. Truck and Tractor Pull, livestock shows, carnival and free music and shows.

Aug. 5: National Night Out, Princeton Police Department, Zearing Park, 5 to 8 p.m.

SEPTEMBER

Aug. 8: Princeton, Down on Main Summer Street Concert, Face 2 Face: Billy Joel and Elton John Tribute. Food and fun at 5 p.m., concert at 6 p.m.

Sept. 4–7: The 54th Annual Bureau County Homestead Festival offers a huge parade, pork chop barbeque, car show, craft and vendor show, concerts on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, 50/50 drawing, and flea market.

Aug. 20-24: The 170th

Sept. 4: Down on Main

Summer Street Concert in Princeton, Electric Avenue: The 80s MTV Experience. Food and fun at 5 p.m., concert at 6 p.m. Sept. 4: Apollo Theater, Princeton. Walk of Fame Dedication, 5 p.m. Sept. 5: Music in the Park in Ladd, The Wise Guys. Food and Drinks available during each concert at Players Club Gaming across the street from the park. Sept. 5-21: Prairie Arts Center Gallery Exhibit, Homestead Festival LEGO Competition. Gallery hours, Saturday and Sunday, 1-3 p.m.

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Sept. 7: Homestead Festival Car Show, Princeton. Huge car show filling several blocks of Main Street. Sept. 7: Homestead Festival Flea Market, Bureau County Fairgrounds, 8 a.m.2 p.m. Sept. 20: Buda Craft & Vendor Fair at the school. Sept. 20: Hornbaker Gardens, 12th Annual

Artisan Market, 10 a.m.4 p.m. A day filled with 40 fine artists, home-baked treats, live music, local lunch fare, craft beer, wine tasting, fresh-picked local produce, and more. The popular community mural handson art opportunity is back. You can paint one of one hundred tiles that will come together throughout the day to create a mosaic mural. Sept. 20: Open Garage “Bring What Drives You” Show. Rotary Park, Princeton. 8 a.m. to noon. Motorcycles, cars, trucks,

golf cars, ATVs, and more.

OCTOBER

TBA: Spring Valley Park Board Fall Festival Oct. 3,4,10,11,17,18,24, 25, 31: Nightmare Haunted Attraction, Bureau County Fairgrounds.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sept. 5: Bureau County History Center, Princeton. Henry Immke photo exhibit.

Oct. 3: Music in the Park, Ladd. Joey Figgiani and food and drinks available at Players Club Gaming across the street from the park. Oct. 3: The 10th Annual Witches Night Out, Princeton. Shopping event.

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Oct. 3-4: Hornbaker Gardens Customer Appreciation Days, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 4: Princeton Halloween Parade, Main Street, 5:30 p.m. Oct. 4: Monster Mash Balloon Bash, Bureau County Fairgrounds, after the parade. Oct. 4: Walnut Fall Fest, food trucks, vendor and craft show, kids’ games, live music, car show, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., downtown Walnut. Oct 4: Hennepin 100 Ultra Marathon along the banks of the Hennepin Canal Oct. 11-12: Shadows of the Blue & Gray, City County Park, Princeton. Historic

Civil War reenactment with soldiers, cannons and a battle every day, President Lincoln, and food. Oct. 13: Tiskilwa Historical Society will host a presentation of “Quiet Souls - Indigenous Women,” by Kim Sigafus at 7 p.m. Oct. 18: Oktoberfest, Princeton Rotary Park, with Heidelberg German Band. 4–8 p.m. Oct. 21: Annual Illinois Valley Toy Run, Soldiers and Sailors Park, South Main St., Princeton. Oct. 31: Princeton & other communities Trick or Treating.

NOVEMBER

TBA: Spring Valley Ladies Night Out. TBA: Spring Valley Breakfast with Santa, Christmas In the Valley, Lighted Parade. Nov. 8: Huge Winter Garage Sale, Bureau County Fairgrounds. 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Nov. 9: Walneck’s Motorcycle Swap Meet, Bureau County Fairgrounds, 8 a.m.– 2 p.m. Nov. 10: Tiskilwa Historical Society will host its annual Salute to Veterans at the Museum on Main at 7 p.m. Open to the public. Presentations are followed by refreshments and social time in the museum galleries. Nov. 15: Model Train Fair & Farm Toy Show, Bureau County Fairgrounds, 9 a.m.– 2 p.m. Nov. 21-23: Princeton’s Christmas Walk Weekend. Nov. 22: Modena Pigeon Show, Bureau County Fairgrounds. Nov. 22–23: Prairie Arts Center, Handmade for the Holidays Artisan Market. Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Sunday, noon– 4 p.m.

Halloween Parade

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Nov. 28: Home for the Holiday’s Christmas Light Drive Thru begins, Bureau County Fairgrounds, Princeton. Nov. 29: Small Business Saturday. Nov. 29: Gingerbread House Workshop & Santa and Mrs. Claus Visits, Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce, Prouty Zearing Community Building. Nov. 29 and 30: Sauk Trail Gun Collectors Show & Sale, Bureau County Fairgrounds.

DECEMBER

Dec. 2: Giving Tuesday. Dec 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 24, and 25: Home for the Holiday’s Christmas Light Drive Thru, Bureau County Fairgrounds, Princeton. Dec. 5: Princeton Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Veterans Park, 6 p.m. Dec. 5: Third annual Princeton Lighted Christmas Parade, Princeton Lions Club, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 5: Candy Cane Hunt,

Home for the Holidays Christmas Light Drive-Thru Soldiers and Sailors Park, Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce, 7 p.m.

Dec. 7: Senior Citizen Dinner, Princeton Moose Lodge.

Dec. 6: Santa’s Workshop, Bureau County Fairgrounds.

Dec. 13: Bureau County History Center, Holiday Open House, Princeton.

Dec. 6: Tiskilwa Historical Society’s annual “Walk Tiskilwa” 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Shopping with non-profit organizations, vendors, and various businesses along Main Street as they usher in the holiday season. Dec. 7: Bureau County Chorus & Princeton Community Band Christmas Concert, Princeton High School Auditorium.

Dec. 13: Christmas Crafts, Gifts & Vendor Show, Bureau County Fairgrounds, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 13: Ladd Christmas Walk 2025 from 2-5 p.m. Lots of free fun. Petting zoo, mini train, horse and carriage rides, Starved Rock Trolley, vendor show, lighted snowman parade, Buddy the Elf, activities, 50/50, and more.

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Outstanding

CAR SHOWS any of the local festivals in Bureau County have a car show as a part of their event.

The king of the summer car shows will be the Homestead Festival car show on Sunday, Sept. 7, on Main Street in Princeton. Many shiny antique cars, polished muscle cars, trucks, and motorcycles will fill several blocks of south Main Street. The next weekend, on Sept. 13, the cars won’t be as shiny at the Ratstock Build Off Review at the Psycho Silo Saloon outside of Sheffield. Rusted handmade parts are a major component of these unusual handcrafted machines. They come from all over the country, parading down the interstate to the Silo for a fun day featuring hundreds of unique cars, live music, and more. Watch the website for Psycho Silo as this summer, they will also have their All Truck show on Saturday, June 7, and their 6th annual Car Show on Saturday, July 19. On June 13 and 14 during More on 34, you can get your car parts at the 8th annual Car and Motorcyle Swap Meet & Car Corral. If you like trucks and big equipment, go to Ladd on July 19 for its annual Convoy Against Cancer Big Truck Show.

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Walnut has the annual Chad Sarver Memorial Car show on Saturday, July 5, during Walnut Celebration Days and another show on October 4th during Walnut Fall Fest. DePue will have three shows – the Silver Dome Car Show on May 2, in the lot next to Caseys, a Downtown Car Cruise on July 11, and its Father’s Day Car Show on June 15 at the lake. Watch the Bureau County Tourism Facebook page for details on all of the shows as the dates get closer. Other local car shows include:

• Old Wheels Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show on Saturday, June 14 at First Lutheran Church in Princeton • The third annual Motor Mob Car Show at Princeton Moose Lodge on June 28. • Ladd’s A&B Garage Annual Car Cruise and Open House on July 19. • Sheffield’s Charity Car Show on Aug. 3. • Open Garage “Bring What Drives You” Show at Rotary Park in Princeton on Sept. 20. • The 21st Annual Illinois Valley Toy Run on Oct. 12 at Soldiers and Sailors Park, Princeton. A 40-mile, round-trip countryside cruise.

SHADOWS OF THE BLUE AND GRAY

30 YEARS of the Shadows of the Blue and Gray

he whole family will enjoy the 30th annual Shadows of the Blue and Gray presentation of Civil War Living History. The 2025 Shadows of the Blue and Gray will be October 11th and 12th. From humble beginnings 30 years ago, this event has grown to a wonderful learning experience for the whole family with participants attending from multiple states. This familyfriendly event has reenactors demonstrating living in the camps and participating in battles to teach about the events from the Civil War from 160 years ago. A mock battle will be performed on both Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. There is plenty of seating along the battlefield for everyone to watch up close. Listen closely as President Lincoln presents the Gettysburg Address. A narrator explains what is happening as the battle begins. You will hear the booms and see the smoke pour from the cannons. Cavalry soldiers on horseback and infantry soldiers on foot

advance toward each other as the battle continues. At the end of the battle, watch as the injured troops are taken to the tent of the field doctor for some medical treatment. He will demonstrate how the sharp instruments were used. There will be a free school day on Friday. All local private, public, and home schools are encouraged to attend. Contact event coordinator Debi Johnson at shadowsbluegrayil@gmail.com or 815-8785005 to set up an appointment for your group. Volunteers are always welcome. Contact Debi for information. Come to the park and enjoy this historic 30th anniversary event. Doors are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct 11th and 12th. This event is open to the public for a nominal fee of $5 per person, with those 3 years old and under admitted for free.

Serving 6th-12th Grade Tues 4pm-8pm • Fri 6:30pm-11pm To learn more or support Second Story, check out our website:

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Home for the Holidays Christmas Light Drive-Thru

HOLIDAYEvents HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The entire family will enjoy the beautiful Home for the Holidays Christmas Light Drive Thru at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. This event is sure to put you in the holiday spirit this Christmas season. The Home for the Holidays lighted Christmas display will open on Friday, November 28th, at Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St. in Princeton. It features many stunning lighted Christmas displays that are sponsored by area businesses and local families. The spectacular drive-thru will be open from 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and from 5 to 8 p.m. Sundays. The display will also be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day night from 5 to 9 p.m. Admission is by donation. The Bureau County Fairgrounds and Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce teamed up in 2021 to create the first Home for the Holidays drive-thru event. New displays are available by contacting Jenica Cole at the Princeton Chamber office, 815-875-2616. She has a book of available designs, or you can design a custom display. Home for the Holidays is just one of many festive events planned for December in Princeton. With the Christmas parade, a Christmas tree lighting, breakfast with Santa, excellent shopping at all of the stores, and a vendor and craft show at the fairgrounds, you’ll find many reasons to feel and show your holiday spirit. Events for the holiday season are celebrated in most of the communities throughout Bureau

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County. Evenings are more special with lighted Christmas parades, which are held in Ladd, Spring Valley and Princeton. A live nativity with real camels happens in Walnut every December. Special musical programs are held in local churches, schools, and at Festival 56. There are many special ways to celebrate the holiday season all over Bureau County.

MONSTER MASH BALLOON BASH The Halloween season kicks off in Bureau County with the annual Halloween parade. Watch for the spooks and witches parading down Main Street in Princeton on Saturday night, October 4. Bring a bag for the treats but watch out for the tricks.

Follow the parade to Bureau County Fairgrounds for the Monster Mash Balloon Bash beginning at 6:30 p.m. There you will find a performance by the Hocus Pocus Hags, kids’ games and crafts, food trucks, and exciting hot air balloon rides with a balloon glow after dark. Nightmare Haunted Attraction will be open from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. with screams and shrieks throughout the old haunted barns. Nightmare’s cast of characters will celebrate their 21st year of scares and thrills in 2025. They will be open Friday and Saturday nights through Halloween.

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ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE ZEARING CHILD ENRICHMENT CENTER The Z Tour Bike Ride offers a chance to experience some of the most scenic and enjoyable cycling routes in northwest Illinois. Riders can explore a variety of looped routes featuring rolling hills, fields of corn, and stunning views of Bureau Creek.

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FLAGS OF FREEDOM

Celebrating 20 Years

FLAGS OF

FREEDOM he Flags of Freedom Memorial has attracted a lot of attention to Bureau County and shows this county’s commitment to this country’s military members – both past and present. The Flags of Freedom display, which was completed on Sept. 10, 2005, features four flagpoles at the intersection of Exit 56 from Interstate 80 and Route 26 at the north edge of Princeton.

With the flagpoles positioned on each corner of the intersection, the Flags of Freedom stand in tribute to the men and women who have served, are currently serving, or will serve our country in the future. They are a reminder to future generations of the sacrifices made to keep our nation free and secure. These flags dwarf the standard 3-by-5-foot size of a typical flag. Each flag weighs 100 pounds and measures 30 by 60 feet. The flag poles are a staggering 153 feet tall. Their sheer size is why these four magnificent lighted flags capture the attention of travelers on Interstate 80. The Flags of Freedom committee, a non-profit

organization, was re-established in July of 2016 to financially support the four large flags. The committee works to raise funds to ensure that these flags remain flying high and inspiring patriotism. While these flags are lowered or taken down completely when there is inclement weather in the hopes of preventing tears, the weather is harsh on the flags. The flags are expensive, with each one costing $1,900. Each year, 12 to 16 flags are needed. The current committee consists of approximately 15 members who diligently work to get donations to keep the flags flying. They have purchased a sewing machine and do their own repairs when the flags get tattered. The flags are rotated approximately every six weeks to be repaired. Repaired flags that are too short to be used are sold as repurposed to anyone who wants to use them in parades or special events. Any donations to the fund are greatly appreciated. To learn more or to donate to the cause, you can visit their Facebook page, which is called Flags of Freedom I-80, or visit their website at www.flagsoffreedomi80.org.

“When these flags of Freedom are finally raised and a breeze unfurls their red, white, and blue, it will be a constant salute and recognition to the courage of those who have served and those who will serve.” – Dan Hollinsaid, father of U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Lincoln Hollinsaid, who selflessly gave his life serving our country during Operation Iraqi Freedom, April 7, 2003. WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 31

MUSEUMS BUREAU COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY 629 South Main, Princeton 815-879-3133 or 815-303-7386 bureaucounty@gmail.com

The Bureau County Genealogical Society is devoted to the preservation of historical and genealogical records for Bureau County. Are you hunting for your family history? This is a free library specializing in local genealogical research records consisting of obituaries, burial locations, church histories, marriage records, historical plat maps, county and town historical records, county newspapers on microfilm, family history books, and national and international research sources including internet searches. Trained volunteers are there to assist as needed on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call to arrange for off-hour visits or to ask for more information.

BUREAU COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM 109 Park Ave. West, Princeton 815-875-2184

We operate three museum buildings and a research library on our campus–The Clark

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Norris Museum, the Newell Bryant Museum and the Sash Stalter Matson Building. Call ahead and book your reservation by calling 815-875-2184. Tours are available Wednesday through Saturday, noon until 5 p.m. and begin at the Newell/Bryant home at 634 S. Pleasant St., Princeton. Final tour of any weekday begins at 4 p.m. and lasts approximately an hour. There are only two scheduled tours on Saturday at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The suggested donation for tours is $5 for adults and $3 for children aged 15 and younger. Active duty military personnel are welcomed as our guests. Membership includes free admission. Permanent exhibits include Native American artifacts, Lincoln and Civil War room, Bureau County military history and veterans displays, Cherry Mine Disaster, and historic home furnishings. Available resources include: Birth, wedding, anniversary files, family histories, military histories of Bureau County residents, local history books, The H.W. Immke Photography Collection 1868-1923, Bill Lamb Collection 1937-2013.

MUSEUMS

CHERRY MUSEUM AND LIBRARY 100 South Main St., Cherry 815-894-2977

See the history of the Cherry Mine Disaster from November 1909, when 259 men and boys died in the mine.

COLTON SCHOOLHOUSE

The Colton Schoolhouse is located on the property of the Owen Lovejoy Homestead on the east side of Princeton. It was moved to that site in 1970 when the Lovejoy home was restored and opened to the public as a museum. Today, after careful restoration, the schoolhouse features the original wood floors and the teacher’s desk from the early 1900s, along with all the other items found in a one-room school.

MANLIUS HISTORICAL SOCIETY 815-445-4102 or 815-454-2532 www.Manliushistoricalsociety.org

The Manlius Historical Society purchased the old First State Bank of Manlius in 2002 from a Manlius resident who bought it in about 1976 and used it only for storage. The building was built and opened in 1915 and closed in 1933 during the depression when Franklin D Roosevelt ordered a moratorium on all banks to close. The First State Bank never reopened and sat empty for many years and was used mainly for storage. It remained unaltered all those years. In 1976 it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places because of the architect, Parker Noble Berry, who was a native of Princeton, IL. He was a protégé of world-renowned Chicago architect Louis Sullivan and studied with Frank Lloyd Wright. It is the only unaltered building that Parker N. Berry designed and is still standing today. Manlius Historical Society has made many renovations over the past 22 years. It is Prairie School Design architecture. The second floor was renovated into a museum with many things on display, including a display of military uniforms. A lot of binders are full of articles and pictures of Manlius and the surrounding area from the early days when Manlius was founded in 1902. We are open Saturdays, 10-2, May 1 through Oct. 31 or by appointment by calling Lois Swanson

at 815-445-4102, Deb Cushman at 815-7160956, or Pat Glafka at 815-713-5318. We are a 501(c)(3) corporation. Come see this beautiful building containing a lot of history located at 122 East Maple Ave in Manlius. We have 34 canvas prints that depict the early days of Manlius’ beginning.

MINERAL PRIDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 115 Main Street, Mineral

This museum is devoted to the preservation of the memories and history of those who were raised or spent a part of their lifetime in Mineral. It’s open from noon to 4 p.m. the first Saturday of every month, and you can learn more about it at www.illinoishsglorydays.com/ mineralhistoricalsociety.

NEPONSET TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY

113 W. Commercial St., Neponset, IL 61345 309-854-2332 The Neponset Historical Society is located on Commercial (Main Street) in the former Bertelsen’s Manufacturing Co. building in downtown Neponset just across from the post office. The hours are 10 a.m. to noon, Wednesdays from April through November. Stop in to see genealogical information, WWII history, a farm room complete with a focus on the Neponset elevator, with an assortment of artifacts, documents, and photos.

OWEN LOVEJOY HOMESTEAD Rt. 6 East and Route 26 815-875-2616 or 815-879-9151

A former station on the Underground Railroad, the Owen Lovejoy Homestead is located at the eastern edge of Princeton. It was the home of the Denham and Lovejoy families for nearly 100 years. WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 33

SHEFFIELD HISTORICAL SOCIETY 325 Washington St., Sheffield 815-454-2850

This historic Danish church was built in 1880, and the museum has 10 exhibit areas and a research and reference room for local history of 10 towns and genealogy. Admission is $1 per person. Research fees may apply. The hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Visit its Facebook page, Sheffield Illinois Historical Society Museum.

SPRING VALLEY HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM

TISKILWA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 110 E. Main St. (former Methodist Church building) 815-646-4016

Our collection includes more than 5,500 artifacts, displayed to preserve and interpret local history. Our handicapped-accessible museum is housed in an 1855 Illinois Historic Landmark building. Museum hours are from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday. Admission is free, and our volunteers will show you around. For private or group tours, call Ed Waca at 815-646-4016.

WYANET HISTORICAL SOCIETY

201 West St. Paul 815-481-2755 or 815-830-4303

The historical society features items related to John Mitchell, coal mining, area businesses, organizations, churches, sports, events, people, and schools. It’s open Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays from March to December. Follow it at facebook.com/Museum61362.

320 East Second Street, Wyanet 815-699-2559 or 815-699-2459

This historical society features the history of the town, including its schools, genealogy, obituaries, veterans, uniforms, Civil War diaries, Hennepin Canal, railroads, and various memorabilia. It’s open from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday from April through October. Donations are welcome.

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The Owen Lovejoy Home, built in 1838, served as a station on the Underground Railroad before the Civil War. Lovejoy was a friend of Abraham Lincoln, a clergyman, abolitionist, and politician. The home was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1997. The Red Brick School (Colton School House) located behind the Lovejoy home was built in 1850, moved to that location in 1971, and was restored the following year. Visitors who are interested in the Underground Railroad and the life of its owner, Owen Lovejoy, can tour the Homestead. The Lovejoy Homestead is located at 905 E. Peru St. in Princeton. For tour details, call 815-879-9151, 815-875-2631, or 815-875-2616 or visit princetontourism.org.

THE OWEN LOVEJOY HOME

Liberty Village RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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Echo Bluff Park

PARKS BUREAU

Children’s Memorial Park The upper-level playground area of Hormel Ponds offers a basketball court, shelter, and picnic facilities. It is cared for and developed by the Bureau United Men’s Society and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Hormel Ponds The ponds are nestled in a secluded basin surrounded by wooded bluffs, marshland, the Hennepin Canal, and bottomland woods that beavers have flooded. The setting is relaxing and invites one to explore its diversity and offers a pleasant location for family outings. A state fish-stocking program supplements the ponds’ natural restocking that results whenever the Illinois River exceeds its banks. Miller-Anderson Woods Along Route 29, the Bureau-Putnam County border, wooded bluffs rise above the broad Illinois River valley to create Miller-Anderson Woods Nature Preserve. The preserve protects the old-growth upland forest, ravines, valley forest, and a floating bog.

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A narrow, ribbon-marked, moderately difficult trail guides one through the woodland variety which displays endangered plants and Ohio buckeye in its most northern range. Once on top and near the bluff’s edge, one is treated to a panoramic view of some of the Illinois River valley’s richest wetlands. Very often seen riding the air currents are turkey vultures and, occasionally, bald eagles.

DEPUE

Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area 1001 W. 4th St. 815-447-2353 The Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area’s complex is managed primarily for migratory waterfowl. Since the areas border the Illinois River, boating and fishing are also popular. Lake Front Park First Street A scenic park stretching along Lake DePue with playground equipment, picnic areas, and restrooms.

Veteran’s Park South Main and Cleveland St. Located at the south entrance to the village, Veteran’s Park has tennis courts, a playground, a large picnic shelter, smaller individual shelters, and restrooms. The park is also the site of the World War I Monument, the Veteran’s Memorial Monument, and a World War II Army tank. Kennedy Park East Locust St. The park contains two ball diamonds, a large picnic shelter, a playground, and restrooms and is home to the Ladd Youth BaseballSoftball League.

MINERAL

McCune Sand Prairie 150 East Street Rural Mineral offers a truly unique feature, an Illinois desert with prickly pear cactus. The McCune Sand Prairie is located about five miles north of Mineral on county road 150 East St. There you will find native Illinois cacti, the prickly pear, growing in abundance. This is not a good place to wear sandals as some of the prickly pear are rather small and hidden in the grass.

PRINCETON PARK DISTRICT

Princeton Park District maintains over 192 acres of parks, and its mission is to maintain and develop a creative, effective, and responsive park, recreation, and nature resource system for residents and visitors to enjoy quality leisure opportunities. The Princeton Park District opened a nine-hole disc golf course located at the Bureau County Metro Center and the adjacent Alexander Park in the fall of 2006. The object of the sport is very similar to that of golf, except that flying discs (also known as Frisbees) are used in place of clubs and balls. Alexander Park and Pool Anderson St. Twelve acre Alexander Park has pickleball courts and a nine-hole disc golf course, six tennis courts that are also used as a multisport court, an outdoor pool, horseshoe pits, barbecue and picnic areas, shelter, restrooms, playground and sand volleyball, and fishing. The pool charges admission.

Bureau County Metro Center 837 Park Avenue West 815-872-0840 The Metro Center is an impressive 52,000-square-foot complete recreational facility. Featured are a full-sized gymnasium for basketball and volleyball; a 25-yard indoor swimming pool with lap lanes, wading pool and observation balcony; racquetball courts; weight room; locker rooms; sauna; a cardiovascular room; and elevated walking track. For receptions, banquets or meetings, the center has a generous-sized multipurpose area. Call for admission fees. A daily admission includes the use of the pool, sauna/ jacuzzi, gym, cardio room, track, and weight room. Children 7 and under are free when they accompany a paying adult. Resident membership fees are available on their website at www.princetonparkdistrict.org.

PARKS

LADD

City-County Park Highway 26 North City-County Park is a 65-acre shady setting with trails, barbecue areas, log cabin shelter, playground, ball field, and restrooms. The log cabin makes a great backdrop for photos and is sure to interest visitors of all ages. Joe Myer Woods Located on 2200 N., north of Dover This site encompasses 30 acres of preserved natural woods. Joe Myer Park 16700 2625 E St., seven miles east of Princeton This is a nice picnic area with timber. Rotary Park This park is adjacent to the Amtrak station in Princeton. Westside Park Randolph & Marion St. This site has three acres of ball fields with restrooms and a concession stand. Zearing Park South Euclid Ave. A 72-acre park located in the southeast corner of Princeton offers the finest ball and soccer fields, shelters, and picnic and barbeque areas. Also available onsite are sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, a playground, and a concession stand. Check out the new walking trail and lake. Trails are great for cross-country skiing. WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 37

SHEFFIELD

Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area 16006-875 E. St. 815-454-2328 Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area was dedicated in 1991 and covers more than 900 acres. This park offers 15 lakes that have been stocked with a healthy population of fish. Park guests use the lakes for boating (electric boat troll motors only), fishing, and canoeing. Other park activities include hiking, hunting, picnicking (bring your own blanket), and wildlife observation. Access is limited.

SPRING VALLEY

Residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor sports and recreation at any one of the city’s seven parks that include ball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, playground equipment, an outdoor swimming pool, and a handicap-accessible obstacle course.

LOOKING FOR A SPOT TO GOLF?

Coal Miner’s Park East St. Paul St.

Chapel Hill Golf Course 815-879-6531 12927 Illinois Highway 26 Princeton

Echo Bluff Park This park is located in beautiful and historic Hall Township, off Route 29 between Spring Valley and DePue. Private parties are available, and high ropes/ziplines are by appointment. Trails, paintball, ice skating rink, ninehole disc golf, high ropes, and zip lines are some of the activities you find here. For more information, call 815-447-2115. Contact us at echobluffproject@comcast. net or learn more at www.echobluff.org.

Try one of these golf courses in Bureau County.

Green River Country Club 815-379-2227 15212 Illinois Highway 92 Walnut Hidden Lake Country Club 845-454-2660 12985 645 East St. Sheffield Spring Creek Golf Course 815-894-2137 286 Spring Creek Drive Spring Valley Wyaton Hills Golf Course 815-872-2641 17879 1500 North Avenue Princeton

This park is a sensory delight, offering spectacular views over the Illinois River with a variety of trees, fishing ponds, beauty, and serenity close to shopping.

Illinois River-Barto Landing West side of Route 89 Barto Landing offers a lagoon for launching from three ramps and is the only calm-water public access to the Illinois River for forty miles of boating, water skiing, fishing, and enjoyment. For more than 20 years, it has been the first stop on the Cabela’s MWC Tournament Schedule, the biggest walleye competition in the state, drawing fishermen from all over the United States. ESPN reporters covering the tournament dubbed our stretch of the river the “Sauger Capital of the World.” In addition, the MWC, several other fishing tournaments are held here annually. The landing also offers excellent boating, fishing, and watersport opportunities.

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Kirby Park Devlin and Strong

June 13 & 14, 2025

This park has three shelters, a baseball diamond, playground, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, picnic areas, and the Coveny-Veterans’ Memorial swimming pool.

PARKS

More on 34 Returns! Father’s Day Weekend Two Days of Garage Sales & Bargain Hunting in Bureau & Henry Counties

Spring Valley Mini Park This park is the heart of the downtown shopping district and host to many events throughout the year. Every summer, the park comes alive with music during the Friday evening Municipal Band Concerts.

TISKILWA

Tiskilwa has two inviting parks that flank the Main Street business district. The downtown parks are equipped with picnic shelters, children’s play equipment, and restrooms. The West Park has a tennis court and the East Park has a gazebo and two war memorial monuments. A third park, Numosh (Potawatomi for “dog”) is located in the area of the former high school, providing a cheerful green space to walk and frolic with your dogs.

Stop and shop in the communities all along Rt. 34 in Bureau & Henry Counties. SM-PR2235273

The Village of Tiskilwa is proud to offer its residents and visitors three beautiful parks to enjoy, Lions West Memorial Park, East Park and Numosh Park. These parks provide ample opportunities for recreation, relaxation and socializing, making them a popular destination for families, friends and individuals. With online reservation capabilities, residents and visitors alike can easily plan their next park visit, ensuring that they have access to their preferred park and its amenities. Whether you’re looking for a place to picnic, play, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, these parks are sure to impress.

Watch the “More on 34-Bureau County” Facebook page for updates

Living history reenactment in Princeton Illinois!

WALNUT

Walnut Park District 403 Sunset Ave. 815-379-2213 Walnut Park District has many events for all ages this year. Basketball, baseball, softball, disc golf, volleyball, pickleball, fishing, tennis and swimming. Check their Facebook page for a schedule of events.

Save the Date October 11th & 12th, 2025 CITY-COUNTY PARK Princeton, IL - For details visit

www.shadowsbluegray.com SM-PR2235954

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HUNGRY WORLD FARM Where Nature Beckons and Souls Reconnect

ucked away in the serene landscapes of Central Illinois, Hungry World Farm offers a sanctuary for those seeking a retreat from the hectic pace of everyday life. A nonprofit spanning 175 acres, the farm is dedicated to the principles of regenerative agriculture and environmental sustainability. Located just outside Tiskilwa, with the farmstead at 9295 1925 East St. and the Farm Learning Center at 19183 Plow Creek Road, this peaceful retreat is just a twohour drive from Chicago, making it an ideal escape to reconnect with nature. At Hungry World Farm, visitors are invited to experience a slower pace of life, where the rhythms of nature guide the day. “It’s a place where the simple joys of life are celebrated—where families can reconnect, and where individuals can find peace and inspiration in the natural world,” says Sam Ingersoll, Executive Director of the farm.

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HUNGRY WORLD FARM

WHAT YOU CAN DO AT HUNGRY WORLD FARM

There’s always something to do at Hungry World Farm, whether you’re here for a few hours or staying overnight. Our offerings provide a wide range of experiences for guests of all ages: Wood-Fired Pizza on the Farm: Saturdays Nights Join us for a delicious wood-fired pizza experience every Saturday night. Gather around the fire, enjoy farm-fresh toppings, and make memories with family and friends under the stars. Regenerative Farm Tours: Daily Explore the farm through daily tours that showcase our regenerative farming practices, market gardens, and conservation efforts. Learn about sustainable farming techniques and the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and community connection. Overnight Farmsteads in Glamping Tents, Cabin, and Campsites: Daily Stay overnight in one of our unique accommodations, whether it’s a luxurious glamping tent, a cozy cabin, or a simple campsite. Each option provides a restful and immersive experience, bringing you closer to the beauty of the land. Nature Walks and Hiking: Weekly Take in the beauty of our rolling pastures, forests, and streams with weekly nature walks and hikes. Discover local wildlife, wildflowers, and breathtaking views as you journey through the farm’s diverse landscapes. Volunteer Activities for Individuals or Groups: Weekly Participate in hands-on volunteer activities that allow you to get involved in farm life. Whether it’s working in the garden, helping with animal care, or assisting with farm projects, it’s a rewarding way to contribute to the farm and learn about sustainable agriculture. Group Retreat Availability: Weekly Hungry World Farm is also available for group retreats. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a corporate retreat, or a community event, our peaceful setting and unique accommodations provide an ideal environment for connection, learning, and relaxation.

CHECK FREQUENTLY FOR DETAILS AND CHANGES For more information about upcoming events, availability, and new offerings, be sure to call the Farm Hotline at (815) 200-8688 or visit its website at www.HungryWorldFarm.com.

WALNUT DAYS

CELEBRATION JULY 4TH-6TH, 2025 Check out our schedule of events at

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HENNEPIN CANAL he Hennepin Canal Visitor Center is located just off Route 80 via Exit 45. The center is located right along the towpath, so you can stop in along your hike to use the restroom facilities and view the museum displays. At the time the canal was built, workers often made their own tools by hand, some of which are on display. There is also a model of a lock system and of an aqueduct, as well as many preserved Illinois wildlife species. The Visitor Center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. To the west of the Visitor Center are beautiful tallgrass prairies containing a mixture of grasses and wildflowers. Among the plantings are big bluestem – the official state prairie grass. Other prairie plantings are scattered throughout the park.

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RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

PICNICKING Picnic tables are sprinkled throughout the day-use areas and main complex for your relaxation and enjoyment. A shelter in the park’s main complex near Sheffield provides areas for group gatherings and can be reserved. Call the site office to make a reservation. The shelter is handicapped accessible. Playground equipment, located at the shelter, will keep the kids busy while the grownups have a chance to chat. Drinking water is currently available at Locks 21 and 24 and the Visitor Center; however, there is a hydrant on the south side of the Visitor Center for use when the center is closed. Outdoor toilets are located at Locks 3, 6, 11, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 26; Bridges 14, 15, and 23; and the Visitor Center on the Main Canal. There are facilities at Bridges 50, 56, and 64 on the feeder canal.

If you’re up to something more challenging, try the 4.5-mile trek in the main complex, which is moderately difficult and gives you a broad taste of landscape from tall timber to grasslands to marsh. This trail begins directly across from the Visitor Center parking lot. Hiking the Hennepin is particularly satisfying in the fall when Mother Nature works her wonders on the leaves. BICYCLING East to west, the trail is variable surfaced from Bureau Junction, near the Illinois River, to Colona on the Rock River. A feeder canal to Rock Falls, 29.2 miles long, is also variable surfaced. Bring your own refreshments as only the Visitor Center has drinking water available. Be sure to yield the right-of-way to horses. FISHING It’s a well-kept secret, but fishing along the Hennepin is well worth the trip. Whether you’re angling for bluegill, crappie, walleye, or bass, 70 bridge or 32 lock locations are available, and the pools are stocked annually. Reminder: Fishing licenses for the 2025 fishing season may be purchased online. Any licenses bought prior to March 1 are for the 2024 fishing season.

CANOEING If canoeing is your sport, come ready for a workout, as the waters are calm, and back and arm power are required. The locks are no longer operational and must be portaged (from Lock 21, east is particularly tough). For a great one-or two-day trip, begin at Rock Falls and continue to the Visitor Center. Check out the Hennepin Canal Recreational Guide on the park’s main page for additional details about portaging.

HENNEPIN CANAL

HIKING An old towpath, originally intended but never used by animals for towing boats along the canal’s main line and feeder routes, provides 105 miles of one-foot-afterthe-other fun. Because you’re right next to the canal, you’ll get a great view of its locks and aqueducts, not to mention the animal life. The going is level and easy at the Hennepin — but be sure to make several stops along the way if you’re hiking the canal’s entire length.

CAMPING Class “C” and Youth Group camping are allowed along the Hennepin Canal Parkway at the following locations: • Lock 6, north bank East of lock • Lock 11, west of the Canal Prism • Lock 17, northwest of the lock • Lock 21, North Day Use Area • Bridge 14, north bank. • Lock 22, southwest of the lift bridge (drinking water available) • Bridge 23, south bank • Lock 23, just west of the parking lot • Lock 26, south bank Equestrian camping is restricted to the south side of the Lock 21 area. Clean up after your horses. Vehicular (RV, pop-up) camping is allowed and is the same rate as tent camping, $8.00 per family unit. There are no dumping/ pump-out stations located at the park.

KAYAKING Join the Yak Yak sisters, as well as a number of individuals and other organizations that use the Hennepin Canal for Kayaking adventures. You can find them on Facebook. BOATING There’s unlimited horsepower for boats along the main line and feeder canals, but no wake is allowed. WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 45

HORSEBACK RIDING The canal’s horse trails are open from April 15 to October 31. Bring your own horse and prepare to enjoy 48 miles along the main canal and more than 25 miles along the feeder. Gallop to your heart’s delight along the corridor. The equestrian trail on the mainline begins at Lock 2 and ends at Lock 24. The equestrian trail on the feeder canal begins/ends at Bridge 47 (just south of Interstate 88). Stay out of the picnic areas and off the towpath unless going around an aqueduct where you will be sharing surfaces with bicyclists and pedestrians. An equestrian campground is located at Lock 21.

WINTER SPORTS

SNOWSHOEING Take an exhilarating trip around the Hennepin Canal utilizing snowshoes to get a good workout and see the invigorating nature around the Hennepin Canal State Park. SKIING/ICE SKATING When the snowflakes fall, break out the skis and go cross country on 4.5 miles of moderately difficult cross country ski trail in the main complex. You can also venture out onto the canal’s trails, but watch for snowmobilers who often run at high speeds. Ice skating is permitted on the canal; however, it is at your own risk, and we do not monitor ice thickness. The canal is approximately 7 feet deep at a maximum in any given location along the waterway. SNOWMOBILING The Hennepin Canal boasts the longest snowmobile trail in the state — 91 miles on the towpath. Snowmobiling on the Hennepin Canal trail is allowed when the trails are declared open by site staff. To check if the trails are open, call the visitor center at 815-454-2328. A pre-recorded message is left during winter hours to indicate daily trail status. Or visit us on Facebook for trail status.

DIRECTIONS TO THE VISITOR CENTER

The Hennepin Canal Parkway basically parallels I-80 in Bureau and Henry counties in west central Illinois. The Parkway’s Visitor Center is one mile south of I-80, just west of Route 40. East or westbound travelers on I-80 should take Exit 45, turn south on Route 40.

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They almost immediately cross the Canal, and in about 1 mile is the brown sign directing them to the Parkway Visitors Center. Turn right (west) and proceed to the Center.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park’s facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts. • At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors. • Pets must be kept on leashes at all times. • Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call ahead to the park office before you make your trip. We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories; leave only footprints.

HENNEPIN CANAL

ACCESSIBILITY AT HENNEPIN CANAL PARKING Parking lots are located at the visitor center, at each of the thirty-three locks on the canal, and at bridges 15, 17, 28, 31, 34, 45, 46, 47, 48, and 56. There is a 200′ concrete sidewalk from the parking lot to the visitor center that has a slight incline. RESTROOMS Accessible vault toilets are available throughout the canal. The visitor center has accessible flush toilets available. PICNICKING A large shelter is available with access from the main parking lot with ADA picnic tables. SERVICE ANIMALS Service animals are welcome on the canal, and water is available near the large shelter by the visitor center parking lot.

VISITOR CENTER The exhibits in the center are tactile with informational displays. There are no braille or audio equipment displays. Accessible restrooms are available and chairs for sitting.

Illinois Valley’s Destination Greenhouse

Offering a wide array of unique annuals, perennials, veggies, shrubs, and so much more Open April thru June? Come see us again in the Fall!

815-894-2125

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sew | craft | stay

For availability and to book your retreat, visit us at: For availabilty and to book your retreat, visit us at:

PrincetonQuiltersCottage.com

Princeton, Illinois

sew | craft | stay

Sleeps up to 10 people in 5 bedrooms (6 twin beds, 2 queens) | First floor sewing/crafting room includes tables with lamps, outlets, and comfy work chairs | Workroom including two

Princeton, Illinois

cutting tables and two ironing boards | Full kitchen | Living room for relaxing | Outdoor deck Dining out and delivery food options | Quaint Historic town with two shopping districts

Sleeps up to 10 people in 5 bedrooms (6 twin beds, 2 queens) | First floor sewing/crafting room includes tables with lamps, outlets, and comfy work chairs | Workroom including two cutting tables and two ironing boards | Full kitchen | Living room for relaxing | Outdoor deck | Dining out and delivery food options | Quaint Historic town with two shopping districts

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The house was beautifully laid out and set up for groups. Our stay was wonderful, and the hosts contributed to that by having all the little extras people need when away from home. ~ Kim

COVERED BRIDGES

COVERED BRIDGES ureau County is fortunate to be home to two historic and highly photographed bridges – Captain Swift Bridge and the Red Covered Bridge. This unique wooden structure was built in 1863 and features a plaque that says, “For three quarters of a century this bridge, defying storms and floods, has carried the traveler across Bureau Creek. It well represents the unyielding character of those who erected it.”

Oak and other lumber was shipped from Chicago to construct the bridge, one of about 200 bridges built in Illinois in the 19th century. When opened, the bridge was an important part of the Galena Trail carrying horse-drawn wagons and cattle between Peoria to Galena. The bridge posted a warning at each entrance for travelers which reads: “Five dollar fine for driving more than 12 horses or mule or cattle at one time or for leading any beast faster than a walk on or across this bridge.”

The Red Covered Bridge has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since April 23, 1975. The bridge had one distinction over the other covered bridges in Illinois: It was the only one open to traffic.

Sadly in November 2023, the Red Covered Bridge was partially destroyed by a semi tractor driver trying to drive through the bridge. Up until then the bridge accommodated an average of 275 vehicles a day. In the November incident, a semi driver attempted to drive through the north side of the 11-foot and 10-inch-tall bridge, damaging sections of the façade and roof. The impact was so strong it ripped off the trailer roof of the semi and created a large gash through the bridge’s roof.

FROM HORSE-DRAWN WAGONS TO HORSEPOWER Completed in 1864 for $3,148.47, the Red Covered Bridge is a one-lane timber truss structure spanning Bureau Creek a halfmile west of Illinois 26 and a mile north of Princeton in Bureau County. The bridge replaced a pontoon bridge that would flood during high water and force travelers to traverse the river.

CRASHES AND NEAR MISSES The bridge survived a number of incidents prior to the November crash. An arsonist in 1971 attempted to burn it down. Erosion along Bureau Creek in the 1990s threatened WWW.BUREAUCOUNTY-IL.COM w 49

the bridge after it damaged the Illinois 26 bridge upstream. High winds in 2003 felled a 90-foot-tall cottonwood tree across the north side of the deck leading to the bridge but missed the main structure. The bridge has received several upgrades in recent decades, such as a fire suppression system, lighting, and a surveillance system. While these improvements have helped protect the bridge, it has not been spared from crashes involving large trucks. Prior to the most recent crash, the last notable one was in 2021, when a semitrailer struck one of the bridge entrances. The bridge was repaired that same year. The bridge also underwent maintenance and repair work in 2022 as workers replaced the steel beams supporting the south approach to the bridge, as well as cleaned and painted the steel beams for the north approach. New timber planking was added at both ends. Unlike those prior repairs, the damage

incurred in November will require more than a quick fix. Following is a report from the Illinois Department of Transportation with information about the process to repair the historic structure from February of 2024.

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RED COVERED BRIDGE: FIXING AN ANTIQUE Illinois Department of Transportation provided a statement in April 2025 about the ongoing situation regarding the Red Covered Bridge. “A team of engineers and technicians has visited the structure and is preparing a Bridge Condition Report. This report will present the findings of the bridge inspection and identify needed repairs. At this time, we don’t know how much damage in terms of dollars was done to the bridge, and we don’t know, specifically, what needs to be done and when it might be opened,” IDOT said.

Built in 2006, the bridge derives its strength from its burr arch design, an idea patented by Theodore Burr of New York in 1804. Made entirely of wood using 1800s concepts (it has an outer skin of Douglas Fir), the Captain Swift Covered Bridge is the only two-lane covered bridge in Illinois. It has a 16’-3” vertical clearance, a 28-foot roadway width and a 128’ span over the Big Bureau Creek.

COVERED BRIDGES

REPAIRING HISTORY

Walk down alongside the bridge and you can swim or kayak in the shallow waters that flow under the bridge. Bring a picnic and spend the day relaxing.

CAPTAIN SWIFT COVERED BRIDGE

The Captain Swift Covered Bridge was built wide enough to support two lanes of traffic and high enough to let farm equipment pass through it. It is located one mile west of Princeton and one mile south of Backbone Road on Epperson Road.

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JOIN THE FUN IN pring Valley’s calendar is filled with fun events and activities for the whole family to enjoy, including races, fishing tournaments, car shows, music, garage sales, farmers’ markets, shopping, vendor shows, youth camps, parades, and more. Visit Spring Valley’s Calendar of Events at https:// spring-valley.il.us/ or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/City-of-SpringValley-IL to see what’s in store for this year and stay up to date on any schedule changes. Here are some of the places you may want to check out when you visit Spring Valley. SPRING CREEK GOLF COURSE Eighteen-hole public course located at 286 Spring Creek Drive in Spring Valley, south of I-80, Exit 70. Conveniently located one hour from Peoria, Bloomington, Joliet, Rockford, and the Quad Cities. Building a reputation based upon excellent conditioning with affordable fees has allowed Spring Creek to

be an Illinois Valley staple for 59 years by keeping the turf healthy, bunkers groomed and large greens, smooth and true. Call 815894-2137 to schedule a tee time. www.springcreek-golfcourse.com www.facebook.com/SpringCreekGC

ECHO BLUFF PARK AND RECREATIONAL AREA Echo Bluff is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, or by special appointment. It can be reached at 815-447-2115, and you can learn more about it at www.echobluff.org or www.facebook.com/ Echo.bluff.3. Echo Bluff Park and Recreational Area is a popular nature and recreation park in the Illinois Valley. It’s located in beautiful and historic Hall Township, off Route 29 between Spring Valley and DePue. It provides many opportunities for the young and old alike. You can take a walk on over 7,000 yards of trails, practice your throwing

Repurposed Statement Furniture, Homemade Home Décor & Gifts 414 S. Main St. Princeton 815-915-7968 cornerchairmarketil.com Hours: Tues- Sat 10am-5pm 52 w SIMPLE PLEASURES, HIDDEN TREASURES

SPRING VALLEY

SPRING VALLEY skills on our newly-configured disc golf course, play a game of paintball in a wooded field, or picnic in our newlyrestored shelter or our premier ice skating rink. Bring a group to participate in our high ropes or zipline challenge courses or roast marshmallows over one of our two fire pits. BARTO BOAT LANDING Barto Boat Landing lies on the northwest side of the Spring Valley Bridge, adjacent to Route 89. It offers a deep lagoon for launching from the ramps and is the only calm water public access to the Illinois River for 40 miles. The Illinois River is also home to many recreational advantages and is enjoyed by area visitors and Spring Valley citizens alike. For more than 30 years, it has been the first stop on the Cabela’s MWC tournament schedule, the biggest

walleye competition in the state, drawing fishermen from all over the United States. ESPN reporters covering the tournament dubbed our stretch of the river, the “Sauger Capital of the World.” In addition to the MWC, several other fishing tournaments are held here annually. The landing also offers excellent boating, fishing, and water sport opportunities. RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Spring Valley is home to seven city parks. The parks offer a variety of amenities for outdoor recreation and relaxation, including picnic areas, playgrounds, sporting fields and courts for organized and individual play, an outdoor pool, a band stage for summer municipal band concerts and special musical events, a stocked fishing pond, and more. Visit Spring Valley’s website to learn more at www.spring-valley.il.us/eat-shop-play.