Lombard’s Peck Homestead launches free weekly drop-in activities through July
The Sheldon Peck Homestead, 355 E. Parkside Ave. in Lombard, is bringing history and creativity to life this summer with two weekly drop-in programs designed for all ages: Art @ the Peck and Hands On History.
From June through July, visitors are invited to enjoy free afternoon activities that combine art, nature, local history, and pioneer traditions in the beautiful setting of the historic Sheldon Peck Homestead.
Whether you enjoy crafting, exploring the outdoors, learning about pioneer life, or simply trying something new, there is something for everyone to enjoy this summer.
Art @ the Peck
Art @ the Peck from noon to 3 p.m. Tuesdays, June 2 to July 28, offers hands-on art experiences inspired by nature, history, and the pioneer spirit of the homestead. Participants can create fun take-home projects while exploring creativity in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Weekly art activities
• June 2: Bow-Tie Noodle Butterfly Craft
• June 9: Spring Butterfly Craft
• June 16: Father’s Day Card
• June 23: Lavender Paint Craft
• June 30: Wet Chalk Fireworks
• July 7: Flower Vase
• July 14: “Embroidered” Paper Samplers
• July 21: Quill Pens
• July 28: Soap Carving
Hands On History
Hands On History from noon to 3 p.m. Thursdays, June 4 to July 30, gives visitors the opportunity to step into the past through interactive pioneer-era activities and traditional crafts. Each week highlights skills and activities that connect participants to the daily life and creativity of early settlers. An additional program will be offered on Friday, June 19, for Juneteenth.
Weekly history activities
• June 4: Seed Planting Day
• June 11: Pioneer Butter Making
• June 18: Candle Making
• June 19 (Friday): Pan African Flag Craft
• June 25: Pioneer Rope Making
• July 2: USA Heart Flag Craft
• July 9: Flower Making Craft
• July 23: Weaving
• July 30: Scavenger Hunt
Families, homeschool groups, artists, history enthusiasts, and curious learners of all ages are encouraged to attend. All activities are free, and no prior experience is necessary.
Make art. Explore history. Create memories this summer at the Peck Homestead!
The Lombard Historical Society endeavors to cultivate a deep appreciation and comprehension of our community's rich history. Visitors can delve into the past through interactive exhibitions, educational programming, and gaining insights from the collections. The historical society is committed to the preservation, interpretation, and celebration of Lombard's past, inspiring a vibrant and inclusive future.
The historical society operates the Victorian Cottage Museum, the Carriage House, and the society’s archives at 23 W. Maple St. It also manages the Sheldon Peck Homestead, a National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site, 355 E. Parkside Avenue in Lombard.
The Sheldon Peck Homestead offers tours and activities on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. The Victorian Cottage Museum is open for tours on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. The Carriage House Exhibitions and the Lilac Emporium Gift Shop are open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information about hours, membership, and volunteer opportunities, visit lombardhistory.org, email info@lombardhistory.org, or call (630) 629-1885.