Volkening Heritage Farm in Schaumburg, IL
Located within the serene Spring Valley Nature Center, the Volkening Heritage Farm offers visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience life on a 19th-century German-American farm in Schaumburg, Illinois. This living history museum provides an authentic and educational experience for all ages, showcasing the daily routines, agricultural practices, and cultural traditions of a typical rural family during the 1880s. Please visit Skyline Chicago Limo for limo services in the area
The Volkening Heritage Farm was established in the late 1800s by German immigrants Johann and Catharine Volkening, who settled in Schaumburg Township after arriving in America. Today, the farm is operated by the Schaumburg Park District and meticulously maintained to preserve its historical accuracy.
Visitors can explore the farm’s original buildings, including the farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and chicken coop, as well as the heirloom gardens that showcase vegetables, herbs, and flowers commonly grown during the period. The farm is also home to various livestock breeds, such as cows, pigs, chickens, and sheep, which are cared for using traditional methods.
At the Volkening Heritage Farm, guests can participate in various hands-on activities and demonstrations that provide a deeper understanding of 19th-century farm life. Depending on the season, visitors may have the chance to witness blacksmithing, woodworking, cooking, and gardening techniques practiced by the early settlers. Children can also engage in age-appropriate chores, such as feeding the animals, collecting eggs, or churning butter.
Special events are held throughout the year, celebrating holidays and seasonal activities that were significant to the farming community. These events include the annual Dairy Day, Harvest Festival, and Victorian Christmas celebration, each offering unique insights into the customs and traditions of the time.
The Volkening Heritage Farm offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours for school groups, scout troops, and families. Programs are designed to align with state learning standards and cover topics such as agriculture, history, and the natural environment. Customized tours can also be arranged to cater to specific interests or age groups.
The Volkening Heritage Farm is located at 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg, IL 60193, within the Spring Valley Nature Center. The farm is open seasonally from April through October, with varying hours of operation depending on the day and month. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to support the farm’s ongoing mission. Read more
Take a journey back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of rural Schaumburg at the Volkening Heritage Farm, where the past comes to life for visitors of all ages.
