Fullersburg Days to offer history and nature activities August 1 and 2 in Oak Brook
Families and history enthusiasts are invited to attend "Fullersburg Days" on August 1 and 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Graue Mill and Museum and the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center in Oak Brook. The event, hosted by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, is free and open to the public.
Attendees can participate in activities such as making seed bombs, crafting corn husk dolls, decorating buttons, and taking self-guided history walks using the Goosechase app. Demonstrations of traditional corn-grinding techniques will be held during tours of Graue Mill, and vintage yard games will be available near the Graue House. A new feature this year allows visitors to wade into Salt Creek and assist ecologists in removing invasive rusty crayfish, with water shoes recommended.
Inside the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center, visitors can meet resident turtles Tina, Lemon, and Daisy and learn about local turtle conservation efforts. A special photo exhibit will highlight the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps, a 1930s workforce that contributed to the development of the preserve, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On Saturday at 9:45 a.m., the Friends of the Forest Preserve District will hold their annual rubber duck race fundraiser, with $500 in cash awarded to the winner. Duck sales end July 31 at noon.
“‘Fullersburg Days’ is a great way for families to connect with both the natural world and the area’s rich history. Whether you’re coming for the stories, the scenery, or to help us round up crayfish in Salt Creek, there’s something for everyone to enjoy,” said Sandie Gilmer, heritage site logistics manager for the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County protects natural spaces, manages more than 26,000 acres of preserves, and offers educational and recreational programs, according to the official website. The district was established in 1915 and serves residents with open spaces, trails, and community events.
For more information about Fullersburg Days or the Forest Preserve District’s programs, residents can contact the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center at 630-850-8110.