Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley


	The 1843 Durant House Museum is operated by P.P.F.V. and maintained by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.
		A Brief History... In 1837, Bryant Durant relocated from Massachusetts to northern Illinois. Shortly after wedding Jerusha Shurtleff in 1843, the newlyweds built this prairie farmstead. Purchasing the property in the 1880s, Godfrey and Chrisitina Petersen added a modern Victorian kitchen to the home. Their addition it the 1-story wing still present and open for tours. The Durant- Peterson House was rescued in the early 1970s after decades of neglect. Visionary members of a local Questers antique study group recognized the homestead's infinite value as a vital component of our shared history and have since restored it with "authenticity" as their motto. 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 throughout the years designed to highlight a prairie family's routines of work and play. From October's Heirloom Apple Frolic to Hearth Cooking's glowing embrace in February- every season exerts a unique charm. Costumed docents and Prairie Children bring the past to life and interpret our pioneer heritage in this nationally recognized historic site.The Durant House Museum beckons visitors of all ages and interests to enjoy an unforgettable"hands-on" experience.

		Public Hours Season Opening: Thursday, June 10th Visit this season for the utmost in 19th-Century hospitality and innovative living history programs! June-October: Open Sundays from 1-4 pm Our dynamic approach breathes new life into history and highlights the extraordinary realities of 1840s life. Pastimes, laundry, food preparation, and tools are just a few of the regular features. Complete you tip back in time by trying a few period games and toys, as well as heirloom arts and crafts. Be sure to visit Sholes Schoolhouse across the road from the Durant House. June-August: Open Thursday 1-4 pm Hands-on children's "Passport to Adventure" activities. Suggested Donation: $2 per adult, $1 per child

	School Groups Tours are designed to meet local curriculum and course guidelines. Available throughout the year, by appointment. Visits to the Durant House Museum can be coordinated with tours of the one-room Pioneer Sholes School. Fee: $4 per student; $25.00 minimum per class For more information or to schedule your tour, call 630.377.6424 or email duranthouse1843@yahoo.com	Scout Programs Brownies and Scouts troops can choose from 4 badge programs at the Durant House Museum. Programs can be specifically tailored to fullfill unlisted badge guidelines; in addition the visit can be enhanced with a trip to Pioneer Sholes School. For more information read our Scout Program brochure. Availability: September through May, by appointment. Fee: $4-$8 per Scout, depending on the program. Cub Scout programs are also available. For more information or reservations, call 630-377-6424.

	Photo courtesy of Jay King	Volunteer Opportunities ~ make a difference in your community, help preserve our communities' past ~ Volunteers are always sought to serve as ambassadors to the public by means of leading Living-History tours, helping out with special events, and spreading awareness of the Durant House Museum's legacy. Prior experience is not necessary. Full training is provided at the museum and arranged to work with volunteers’ schedules as much as possible. We offer a diverse and flexible schedule, ranging from afternoons in the summer to school groups throughout the year. To learn more or volunteer at the 1843 Durant House Museum, contact us

	Junior Docent Program A devoted corps of junior docents bring the Durant House to life with lively spirits, authentic dress, and enthusiasm for games and chores of the 19th- century. Unofficially known as the"Durant Prairie Children", these young people participate in workshops on aspects of the pioneer lifestlye. They also serve as adjunct staff during public hours and special events, helping us to share history and 1840's prairie life with the community. For information, please call Alice Maupin at 630.377.6424 or email duranthouse1843@yahoo.com
	Interested in the many benefits of Preservation Partners membership? Find out how you can help preserve our community's heritage on our Advocacy and Resources page.

	Museum Location The Durant House is situated on its original site within the of LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 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 on Randall Road. After entering LeRoy Oakes, continue on 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 directs you to the Preserve's entrance- from there, follow the above instructions to locate the Durant House Museum	Durant House Address: 37W370 Dean Street, Saint Charles, IL 60175

~ make a difference in your community, help preserve our communities' past ~