Wood Dale festival opens door to history

It's a combination of modern fall fun and a live history lesson.

And the members of the Wood Dale Historical Society work hard to make sure their annual Harvest Fest remains that way each year.

This Sunday, the fest will return to Yesterday's Farm Museum in Wood Dale and will include traditional attractions like pony rides, a petting zoo, an 18-foot children's slide, fall food like corn on the cob and a craft fair.

But it also will offer a look into the past with a performance by the Battlefield Balladeers, two men dressed as a Civil War Confederate and Union soldier singing tunes from the era, sheep shearing and cannon-shooting each hour by Taylor's Battery. Their cannon replicates those used in the Civil War.

The duPage Valley Settlers (the first letter of their name is even lowercase, to be accurate with historical names), also will demonstrate aspects of early pioneer life. Ann Marong, curator of Yesterday's Farm Museum, said the Harvest Fest attracts visitors and volunteers of all ages, but it really appeals to people who have family memories of farm life.

"I think many of them just enjoy being on a farm and they all have a story to tell about family history," Marong said. "They remember doing work on the farm or helping out their grandfather or uncle."

Other people discover nostalgia in the 1922 house located on the farm grounds.

"It seems to bring back memories," Marong said. "They'll see something antique in the house and say 'My grandmother had this.'"

Harvest Fest is one of the largest annual events hosted by the Wood Dale Historical Society and raises funds for their ongoing preservation efforts. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

If you go

What: Wood Dale Historical Society's annual Harvest Fest

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday

Where: Yesterday's Farm Museum, 850 N. Wood Dale Road, Wood Dale

Cost: Free

Details: Curator Anne Marong at (630) 766-4216