Ikes Host Tea & History: ‘Another League of Our Own - Baseball in Des Plaines’

On Saturday, May 11, from 1-3:30 p.m., the Des Plaines chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America will host this year’s Tea and History program entitled “Another League of Our Own — Baseball in Des Plaines” at the historic Jefferson House at 1841 S. River Road in Des Plaines.

Kurt Begalka, the new executive director of the Des Plaines History Center, will present. Attendees will savor tea with scones, finger sandwiches and sweets as they enjoy learning about the area’s own baseball history. A boutique will be available as well.

The price of admission is $12 and tickets can be obtained on the chapter’s website, www.iwla-desplaines.org or by contacting program chair Jen Conlon at (847) 692-6447 or the chapter at (847) 824-4509.

The fourth in a series of annual teas, this Tea and History program seeks to reflect the League’s long-standing commitment to nature and outdoor recreation while relating to the history of the region.

“Who doesn’t get spring fever in May? Last year we talked about greenhouses and this year we’ll talk about the history of baseball in the area. I’m learning more just planning the event. Who knew that Des Plaines had a women’s team?” says Jennifer Conlon, chair of this event and member of the Izaak Walton League. “The Ikes are all about the wonder of being outdoors and folks in the community have enjoyed getting outside for centuries.”

The Izaak Walton League of America, also known as the IWLA or affectionately as the Ikes, has recently celebrated its 100th anniversary and the local chapter will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026. The conservation organization is committed to practical solutions geared toward sustainable use of natural resources. The Des Plaines chapter is one of the nation’s oldest and has been housed since 1929 in its historic location on River Road.