John Deere announced on April 13 that it will be opening the doors to the John Deere Historic Site for the 52nd year on May 1.
The site, which is located in Grand Detour, Illinois, is the original homestead of the company’s founder. John Deere’s first “self-scouring” steel plow was constructed at this location.
"When you step foot on the grounds of the John Deere Historic Site, it feels like taking a step back in time," said Kristen Veto, manager of the John Deere Historic Site. "You hear the floorboards creak as you walk inside John Deere's home and feel the heat of fired steel inside a working blacksmith shop. Whether you're a school group, a John Deere fan, or a history buff, it's an experience you can't miss.”
There is a series of exhibits hosted at the site each year, including a tour of the Deere Family Home, built in 1836. Visitors can also tour the archaeological site where John Deere created his steel plow, as well as the original blacksmith shop. Up to seven times per day, resident blacksmiths create works that are sold at the site’s gift shop, providing a glimpse into how items were constructed in the past.
New to 2016 are Family Free Days (free admission to all guests), which will be hosted every second Saturday between May and October, as well as on Labor Day and Memorial Day. More information on the historic site and its events can be found on www.JohnDeereAttractions.com.