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Barb City's Barbed Wire Weekend

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Fri, Sep 27 – Sun, Sep 29, 2024 • 9:00am - 4:00pm

101 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb, IL 60115

A weekend-long community event celebrating the 150th anniversary of Glidden's barbed wire patent with a wire show, barbed wire sites tour, and more!

A weekend-long community event celebrating the 150th anniversary of Glidden's barbed wire patent! A three-day, public barbed wire expo to be held at the historic Altgeld Hall “castle” on the campus of Northern Illinois University (Joseph Glidden's land donation for a college) and near the site of Henry Rose's original exhibit that inspired barbed wire. The wire show, held in partnership with the Antique Barbed Wire Society, will feature local collectors and collectors from across the United States.

Not a barbed wire collector? No problem! You'll love viewing all the wire styles, taking in the educational booths, and learning local history! Maybe get a barbed wire temporary tattoo?! Fun for all ages! There will also be special opportunities to take in a Barbed Wire Sites Tour, including visits to the historic Glidden Homestead, Jacob Haish sites and Ellwood House! You don’t want to miss this celebration of Barb City history and innovation!

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Hotel at Holmes

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Located in the center of campus, the Hotel at Holmes offers the convenience of meeting spaces, restaurants, recreation, and more—all under one roof. We are also…

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Red Roof Inn & Suites DeKalb

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Red Roof Inn & Suites DeKalb offers free WiFi, flat screen TVs, iron & ironing boards, hairdryers, and coffee in all rooms. The inn also features…

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Comfort Inn & Suites - DeKalb

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Hotel close to NIU Huskie Stadium and downtown DeKalb

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