McHenry County Farm spans three centuries. Page Colby left Vermont to head west in 1842. He had $130 to buy land, a powerful will to work and was inspired to farm by the rich and tillable soil he found along the way.
Did you know that local farm boys from McHenry County once squared off against the Chicago Cubs and White Sox? That a hurler from Marengo pitched for the last Cubs team to win a World Series?
A fun and educational living history re-enactment of the Northwest Territory between 1670 and 1850. It’s that time of year again. The arrival of autumn brings the 19th annual Trail of History presented by the McHenry County Conservation District.
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History
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Here at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park you can step back to a simpler time to explore the craftsmanship and unexpected brilliance of a Civil War era architectural masterpiece - the historic Dole Mansion. The Dole guarantees to stop you in your tracks with its intricate wood carvings, dazzling parquet floors and stunningly beautiful grand staircase.
Today, the Arts Park is in its infancy. Officially opened on July 4, 2005, it is owned and operated by a the non-profit Lakeside Legacy Foundation, formed for the purpose of preservation, protection, and enhancement of the property. The vision: become a world-class arts education center.
McHenry County Historical Society - With a mission of providing the methods and means of presenting McHenry County history to enrich life. The comprehensive collection includes several preserved buildings, an 1847 log cabin, an 1885 town hall, an 1895 one-room schoolhouse, and a 20th century modern tourist cabin. Visit the museum in Union, Illinois to learn more about area history!
McHenry County Conservation District - Over 22,000 acres of open space graced with woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and savannas. Trails and other recreational amenities have been added within 27 conservation areas where the public can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, camping, cross-country skiing, and picnicking. Discover your District today!
Cary was once home to mink empire Northwood Fur Farm, a ‘magical place’ headed by community-minded entrepreneur Otto H. Grosse.
The Northern Illinois Fire Museum preserves our local firefighting heritage, and plans to develop a more permanent home for visitors to enjoy.
Spring Grove long remained the largest fish hatchery in the United States due to its natural supply of pure spring water and 
McHenry County residents remember what life was like as teenagers in the '30s, '40s and '50s, and share their high school memories while reflecting on simpler times.
The story behind Crystal Lake’s Main Beach and The Gates includes colorful tales of corporate greed, gangsters and eccentric tycoons, but most importantly, a triumph for conservation and community.