Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley



A Brief History... In 1837, Bryant Durant moved to northern Illinois from Massachusetts. Shortly thereafter, Bryant took a bride, Jerusha Shurtleff. The couple built this modest prairie farmstead in 1843. After decades of neglect, it was rescued in the early 1970's by visionary members of a local Questers antique study group who recognized its value as a vital link to our common heritage. Today, the Durant House is fondly recognized as Kane County's own "Little House on the Prairie." The Museum functions as a "house for all seasons," with special programs designed to highlight a prairie family's routines of work and play throughout the year. Each season exerts its unique charm; with heirloom apples offered in October, and the comforting aromas of hearth cooking a February attraction. Costumed docents and Prairie Children interpret our rich heritage in this lovingly restored prairie house and enliven the atmosphere at all Durant House events making the Museum a Must-See.The Museum beckons visitors of all ages and interests to enjoy a delightful "hands-on" experience.

Public Hours June 14- October 4: Open Sundays from 1-4 PM Our dynamic approach is designed to breathe new life into history and highlight the unique charms of 1840’s life by presenting visitors with a truly unforgettable experience. Join us this season for the very utmost in pioneer hospitality and a plethora of innovative programs! Expert staff and docents offer guided Living-History tours that reveal the reality of 1840's prairie life. Pastimes, laundry, food preparation, and tools are just a few of the regular features. Our hands-on approach to heirloom arts and crafts, period games, and children's toys add to the extraordinary experience. Complete you visit with a tour of Sholes School next-door. June 18-August 20: Open Thursdays from 1-4 PM Special focus on children's "Passport to Adventure" activities Suggested Donation: $2 per adult * $1 per child

***Summer Frolic scheduled for Sunday, July 19th at 1 p.m. Details coming soon...

Private & Group Tours Available throughout the year, by appointment. Private tours are designed to meet the needs and interests of your group. Fee: $3 per adult, $ 1 per child; $25 minimum School Tours Available throughout the year, by appointment. Tours can be coordinated with visits to the one-room Pioneer Sholes School. Fee: $4 per student; $20.00 minimum per class To schedule your group's tour or event, please contact Alice Maupin at 630.377.6424 or email duranthouse1843@yahoo.com		The Durant House is operated by Preservation Partners for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

Scout Programs Brownies and Scouts can earn 4 badges at Durant House programs. For more information click here. Programs are offered September through May, by appointment. Fee: $4-$7 per Scout, depending on the program selected. Cub Scout programs are also available. Call 630.377.6424 or email duranthouse1843@yahoo.com to schedule your tour

Volunteer Opportunities Visitors to the Durant House are greeted with the utmost in pioneer hospitality by authentically-costumed docents. Volunteers help muesum guests discover this handsomely restored prairie farmstead, while exploring local history and culture. New docents are always welcomed and given a thorough background on the Durant family, their home, and the lifestyle of a typical farm family of the 1840's.Training is on-going throughout the year. If you are interested in becoming a docent, please contact us.

Junior Docent Program A devoted corps of junior docents brings the house to life with their lively spirit, authentic dress, and fondness for games- and chores! -of the 19th century. Unofficially known as the, "Durant Prairie Children," these young people are invited to workshops specific aspects of 19th century life. They also serve as adjunct staff during museum open hours, helping us share local history and culture with the community. For information, please contact Alice Maupin at 630.377.6424 or duranthouse1843@yahoo.com

	Durant House Location The Museum is situated on its original site within the tranquil confines of the LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve- just west of Randall Road in St. Charles. The Preserve is located on Dean Street; one mile west of Randall Rd. Dean Street is 1/4 mile north of Route 64 at Randall Road. Once entering the Preserve, continue for approximately ½ mile until you see the one-room Pioneer Sholes School on your right. As you pass the school, you will see a reddish-brown brick building on your left- this is the Durant House Museum. ***Note: MapQuest will direct you to the entrance of LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. From there, follow the instructions above to the Durant House Museum	Durant House Address: 37W370 Dean Street, Saint Charles, IL 60175