Naper Settlement is a celebrated outdoor history museum located in Naperville, Illinois. Spanning 13 acres, it provides visitors with immersive educational experiences through historic buildings, exhibits, programs, and events that showcase the rich history and heritage of Naperville and its surrounding region.
Background of Naper Settlement
Founded in 1969, Naper Settlement operates under the Naperville Heritage Society through a management agreement with the City of Naperville. It was established to preserve and interpret the community life, culture, and history of Naperville, including its social, political, and business development. The museum features approximately 30 historic structures, many relocated and restored, representing life from the early 19th century through the early 20th century.
The settlement is named after Joseph Naper, the founder of Naperville. His family’s landholdings and legacy play a significant role in shaping the museum and its mission. Caroline Martin Mitchell, the last heir of the Martin family, bequeathed her home and land for public use, which forms the core of the museum’s property today.
Features and Offerings at Naper Settlement
The museum is designed to educate visitors of all ages through interactive programs and exhibits:
- Historical buildings such as a one-room schoolhouse, Victorian mansion (Martin Mitchell Mansion), chapel, blacksmith shop, and log house.
- Hands-on activities, guided tours with educators dressed in period costumes, and engaging public events like reenactments and festivals.
- Exhibits such as “Building Naperville: Tallgrass Prairie to Today,” connecting local stories to broader U.S. history.
- Community programs including summer camps, educational workshops, and Naper Nights summer concert series.
Location and Visitor Information
Naper Settlement is situated at 523 South Webster Street, Naperville, IL 60540, just steps from the downtown area. It is easily accessible for residents and tourists looking to explore Chicagoland’s cultural heritage through engaging, outdoor historical experiences.
Membership and Support
Visitors have the option to become members, gaining year-round access to the museum and special events. Membership also supports the museum’s ongoing mission to preserve Naperville’s history and provide educational resources to the community.
Significance of Naper Settlement
Naper Settlement is more than a museum; it is a vibrant cultural campus that bridges the past and present, connecting visitors with the pioneering spirit that founded Naperville. Through its preservation efforts and diverse programming, it sustains community identity and inspires reflection on local and national heritage.
