Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Joseph F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center

921 West Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL 60115

Historic Sites

The Joseph F. Glidden homestead features a working blacksmith shop, an early 1860s barn, and the 1861 homestead house. The site hosts several annual events and the historic barn is currently undergoing a archeological dig.

Joseph Farwell Glidden's invention of one of the most widely-used types of barbed wire in 1873 helped change the history of the American West and had far-reaching impact throughout the world. His Homestead in DeKalb, IL, is being preserved and restored by a not-for-profit organization founded in 1995. Both the home and the barn are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We welcome your visit and encourage your membership!

Images

More Information

Tours for adult, school, or scout groups can be scheduled year-round. The group rate is $3 per person.

How to find us?

Back to Listings

You might also be interested...

Ellwood House Museum

DeKalb

The Ellwood House Museum reflects the central role of Isaac Ellwood in the development of the barbed wire industry in America. The magnificent estate testifies to…

Read more about Ellwood House Museum

Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Gazebo -- DeKalb

DeKalb

The Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition presents 16 Interpretive Gazebos along the Lincoln Highway, a 179-mile National Scenic Byway in Northern Illinois.

Read more about Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Gazebo -- DeKalb

DeKalb Public Library

DeKalb

Educational programming for all ages in a newly renovated and expanded historic building.

Read more about DeKalb Public Library

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.