The DeKalb County History Center is proud to announce the official groundbreaking of its highly anticipated campus expansion project, “Rooted in History, Cultivating the Future.” This exciting development marks a significant milestone in the Center’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote DeKalb County’s rich agricultural heritage.

The History Center’s proposal has earned statewide recognition, securing a highly competitive $500,000 matching grant from the State of Illinois. This vital funding underscores the strength of the project and the importance of its mission. Additional support has also come from the DeKalb County Community Foundation through their Community Needs grant program.

At the heart of the expansion is the transformation of a historic corn crib into a unique amphitheater space, along with the creation of interpretive panels, community programming, and educational partnerships. These initiatives will establish the campus as a vibrant venue that honors DeKalb County’s legacy of agricultural innovation.

Located on the former Engh Farm, the expansion aims to explore and celebrate the county’s agricultural legacy in an authentic, engaging setting. It offers a modern approach to connecting past and present, ensuring that DeKalb County’s rich agriculture stories are preserved and shared with future generations.