What a year! The Downers Grove Historical Society celebrated a milestone in 2024, with memberships reaching an impressive 411—a testament to the community’s enthusiasm for preserving and celebrating our town’s rich history.
Throughout the year, DGHS hosted nearly monthly events, staying true to our mission to educate, preserve, and inspire interest in Downers Grove’s heritage. Here are some highlights:
- January & February: Partnering with Orange & Brew for an architectural scavenger hunt and showcasing the Mochel Family Video at Alter Brewing—so popular it sold out twice!
- April & May: FoundersFest honored Israel Blackburn, former slave and signer of DG’s incorporation, as Founder of the Year. We also premiered The 1846 Blodgett House documentary by Historian of the Year Jim Toth.
- Summer Events: Tours of the Avery Coonley School, the dedication of Belmont Prairie as the 2024 Historic Site, and educational presentations on historic preservation and Sears Homes drew enthusiastic crowds.
- October: We honored Mary Ellen Young with the Montrew Dunham Award and hosted the much-loved Living Cemetery event, which brought history to life for the community.
- November: The year wrapped up with a packed house for the lively History on Tap event.
In addition, our Historic Home Program honored 4 new homes this year. We’ve also made improvements to the Main Street Cemetery, including new benches and freshly stained fencing and pergola.
We hope you enjoyed the events of 2024 as much as we did. With your support, we’re excited to make 2025 just as memorable!
