Naper Settlement commemorates America’s 250th with flag raising, exhibits and events
On Friday, Jan. 16, the Naperville Heritage Society kicked off a year of historic celebration at Naper Settlement commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a flag-raising ceremony.
A commemorative America250 Flag was raised at Naper Settlement with the help of the Naperville Combined American Legion Post 43/Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 Color Guard.
The event featured remarks from Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli, Congressman Bill Foster, retired U.S. Army Major General Mike Milano, VFW Post 3873 Commander Staci Boyer, and Naper Settlement’s President and CEO Rena Tamayo-Calabrese.
After the flag raising, guests were invited to view a brief showcase of military objects from the museum’s collections.
Throughout the year, there will be programs, events, and hands-on experiences designed to educate and inspire visitors of all ages to make their mark on the future of our community and the nation.
On Family STEM Night on Feb. 5 and 19, the theme will be “Young Makers & 250 Years of Inventions” from 6 to 7 p.m. Spark your child's creativity and explore 250 years of American innovation together through hands-on activities that blend history and science. Caregivers and children, ages 5-11, are invited to build, experiment, and invent through hands-on activities inspired by the thinkers and tinkerers who shaped our nation. Cost is $8 per person. Sign up via napersettlement.org/250Celebration.
On Presidents' Day, Feb. 16, Naper Settlement continues the “250 USA Celebration” with a new exhibit, “We the People: Naperville and the American Story.” The exhibit will bring visitors on a journey through the nation’s history and invites them to explore the rights, revolutions, and freedoms that have shaped the U.S. from 1776 to today. Through thought-provoking artifacts, imagery, and a series of new hands-on interactives, visitors will connect Naperville’s history to the nations and leave inspired to make their mark on the next 250 years.
On select weekends during the summer, “250 USA”-themed enhanced experiences are included in museum general admission.
To learn more about Naper Settlement’s 250 USA Celebration in 2026, visit NaperSettlement.org/250Celebration.