Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County
Previously known as the Lake County Discovery Museum, the Bess Bower Dunn Museum of the Lake County region is a fun and interactive museum with a diverse collection of history, popular culture, and art. It is located at 1899 W Winchester Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048. While it is not a traditional museum, the interactive exhibits and hands-on exhibits will engage you in learning about the past and present.
The museum features collections spanning nearly twenty thousand artifacts and one thousand linear feet of archival materials. The artifacts and archives are preserved in an environmentally controlled care facility, protected by precise temperature and humidity controls. Researchers can access the archives and research materials by appointment. The collections are also showcased in exhibitions and education programs. Learn more
A recent expansion of the museum is a big change from the previous location. It provides twice the gallery space and a clear path through the museum's timeline. Now, the museum is split into five distinct time periods. Each time period features a different color on the walls to give the visitor a sense of change.
If you're planning to visit the museum, make sure you take time to explore the land where history took place. Bess Bower Dunn, the museum's namesake, was the county's first official historian from 1877 to 1959. Her dedication to documenting Lake County's history was instrumental to preserving the region's heritage. She also served as the director of the Lake County Forest Preserves, which also operates the museum.
The museum is open to the public on the first and third Thursday of every month. On these days, it is free to visit, and it is open until eight p.m. Most of its exhibits are interactive, allowing visitors to learn more about Lake County's history and culture.
Located in Aurora's historic Central Fire Station, the Aurora Regional Fire Museum is home to hands-on exhibits about firefighting. The museum also features a children's discovery room and a theater. Visitors can also take advantage of the Museum's buy-one-get-one-free policy. During the summer season, visitors can also visit Didier Farms, a homegrown vegetable garden and five-acre corn maze. There are also free special events on weekends.
Bess Bower Dunn's life was full of accomplishments. She was a pioneer and a passionate collector of Lake County history. She was the county's first woman in the motion picture industry and the first assistant probate clerk. She was also one of the county's first genealogists.
Another historical attraction in Libertyville is the Ansel Cook House. Built in 1876, it is one of the most complete Victorian museums in Lake County. It was donated to the Village of Libertyville and is operated by the Libertyville-Mundelein Historical Society. The museum is open to the public on Sundays during the summer and December. Admission is free and there is no need to reserve a reservation. This article
The museum offers a variety of exhibits spanning the last two centuries. It is a great place for a family day trip or a morning or afternoon playdate with children. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and the facility is spacious and clean.
