Naper Settlement | Naperville

Naper Settlement is a renowned outdoor history museum located in downtown Naperville, Illinois, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Naperville and the surrounding region. Spanning 13 acres, it offers visitors an immersive experience into 19th and early 20th-century life through historic buildings, interactive exhibits, and engaging programs.

History and Purpose

Established in 1969, Naper Settlement was created to save and restore historical buildings and artifacts from Naperville’s early days, providing a living history experience that connects the community with its past.

Managed by the Naperville Heritage Society, the museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, reflecting its high standards for preservation, education, and public service.

Historic Buildings

Naper Settlement is home to over 30 historic structures, many relocated and restored to recreate the atmosphere of a 19th-century town. These buildings represent various aspects of pioneer and Victorian life:

Martin Mitchell Mansion (Pine Craig Mansion):
A grand 12-room Victorian mansion built in 1883, representing the wealth and lifestyle of Naperville’s prominent citizens. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features period furnishings and decorative arts.

Century Memorial Chapel:
Built in 1864 in the Gothic Revival style, this chapel served as a spiritual center for early residents and is a fine example of mid-19th-century religious architecture.

Paw Paw Post Office:
One of the oldest frame houses in Naperville, dating back to 1833, it illustrates the humble beginnings of the community and early postal services.

Log House:
A simple pioneer-era dwelling showing the everyday life and hardships of Naperville’s first settlers.

Blacksmith Shop and Print Shop:
These operational workshops demonstrate traditional trades critical to the town’s development. Visitors can watch blacksmithing and printing processes that were essential to daily life in the 1800s.

Interactive Exhibits and Experiences

Naper Settlement offers a variety of hands-on and educational exhibits that bring history to life:

Building Naperville: Tallgrass Prairie to Today:
This exhibit explores the transformation of the landscape and community from untouched prairie to modern city.

Farm Forward:
Showcases agricultural practices and innovations that shaped local farming history.

Thresher Experience:
Offers insights into historic farming machinery and technology, allowing visitors to see how grain was harvested and processed.

Selling Kroehler:
An exhibit focused on the Kroehler Furniture Company, once Naperville’s largest employer, illustrating industrial and marketing history through interactive displays.

Family and Community Engagement

Naper Settlement is very family-friendly, providing spaces and programs tailored to children and families:

Rita and John Harvard Early Learning Playscape:
A splash pad and play area designed for young children, encouraging active, sensory-rich play.

Seasonal Events and Programs:
These include "Sensory Friendly Saturdays" for visitors with special needs, "Family STEM Nights," historic reenactments, craft workshops, and holiday celebrations.

Educational programs for schools and groups make Naper Settlement a popular destination for hands-on learning about history, culture, and community.

Visitor Information

Location: 523 S. Webster Street, Naperville, IL 60540, conveniently located near downtown Naperville and the Riverwalk.

Hours:

May through September: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

October through April: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Admission: Varies by season and age group; discounts available for seniors, children, and groups. Visitors should check the official website for current pricing.

Accessibility: The museum grounds and many buildings are wheelchair accessible. Staff accommodate visitors with special needs.

Parking: Ample parking available on-site, with additional options nearby.

Additional Highlights

Naper Settlement also features a museum store offering historical books, toys, and gifts.

The site hosts weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings in its scenic outdoor spaces.

It provides volunteer opportunities for those interested in history, preservation, and public education.

Summary

Naper Settlement is more than a museum; it is a vibrant community resource that preserves Naperville’s history through authentic buildings, engaging exhibits, and hands-on programs. It offers a window into the lives of the city’s earliest settlers and celebrates the growth and transformation of the area. Whether visiting for education, recreation, or cultural enrichment, guests experience a deep connection to Naperville’s past in a beautiful, accessible setting.