Explore the History Center Campus
Welcome to the DeKalb County History Center campus, located on the historic Engh Farm, where more than 180 years of DeKalb County history come to life.
As you explore the grounds and walking paths, you’ll discover interpretive signs sharing the stories of the families who lived and worked on the farm from 1843 to today. Along the way, you’ll also encounter public art, historic farm equipment, raised garden beds, and plots that provide fresh produce that is donated local food pantries.
The campus is home to a variety of historic and community spaces, including the Hired Man’s House Pavilion, Tenant Farmers House, and the newly renovated Corn Crib, which now serves as a classroom, stage, and event venue.
Whether you’re visiting to learn more about local history, enjoy the gardens, explore the walking paths, or simply spend some time outdoors, there’s always something new to discover.
Explore the campus and learn more about the history, people, and projects that make this place special!
'Sunup ‘til Sundown' by Kailey Rorer
This special America 250 Anniversary project was partially supported by a generous grant from the Illinois Arts Council.
This mural reflects DeKalb County’s rich agricultural stories. While DeKalb County has grown and changed since it was officially established in 1837, as of 2026, 88% of the land is still farmland. There are 2,300 farms, with the majority of these farms being owned locally.
- Corn is the #1 ag commodity grown in the county.
- Soybeans are grown on a third of DeKalb County farmland
- Livestock in the county includes: hogs (DeKalb County is the 2nd largest hog producer in the State), beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, and chickens.
- Specialty crops includes: sweet corn, apples, pumpkins, raspberries, strawberries, and other fruits and vegetables often sold at orchards, farm stands, farmers’ markets and at local supermarkets.
Information is from https://dekalbfarmbureau.org/farms/ (August 2026).
A special thank you to our in-kind supporters who made this project possible:
Gehrke Construction. Finney Electric, Ozinga Concrete, Justin Jacobson, and the City of Sycamore.
Special thank you to Sycamore Park District and Noblewins.
