Chance to experience 1880s farm life - in Schaumburg

The Schaumburg Park District's Volkening Heritage Farm this summer is offering several opportunities to experience a completely different way of life than most suburban dwellers know.

These programs showcase the true spirit of the Heritage Farm at 201 S. Plum Grove Road, which was always intended to be a reminder of life on a German-American farm of the 1880s.

In "Up and At 'Em Animal Chores," the focus is on caring for livestock. The event includes a light breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. June 19, July 17 and Aug. 1.

"Wake Up and Work on the Farm" is for very early risers. Participants will collect eggs and prepare a hearty farm breakfast before most people wake up. This program will run from 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. on July 25 and Aug. 21.

Evening chores precede the daily wind-down of watching the sunset and enjoying one of the farm's historic recipes in "Sundown Supper on the Farm" from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 5 and Aug. 14 and from 6 to 9 p.m. June 25 and July 9.

"Each of these programs lets participants engage in activities that most visitors to the Heritage Farm only get to observe," said Manager Dave Brooks. "While participants will only get a taste of the hard work involved with running a farm in rural Schaumburg during the 1880s, the experiences are authentic and will definitely be memorable."

All the programs are done with small groups led by trained and knowledgeable staff dressed in period clothing.

Preregistration is required and a three-day prior notice recommended. For information, call (847) 958-2100.