Once in a lifetime anniversary. . .
Once in a lifetime admission price

$1.75 Day at Naper Settlement
1-5 p.m.
Admission: $1.75, Naperville Heritage Society Members Free

The year 2006 will be the most memorable one since the Naper brothers arrived back in 1831. Plan to start the year off by joining in the fun New Year's Day as the City of Naperville kicks off its 175^th anniversary celebration in a blaze of light, color and sound. The theme of the 175^th anniversary is "Heritage, Unity and Vision," with the first events tied into the theme of heritage.

Become acquainted with Naperville's heritage from 1 to 5 p.m. on Jan. 1, by visiting our museum for a special admission price of $1.75.  Visit with costumed interpreters in the historic homes and businesses, including a working blacksmith and print shop, a fort, one-room schoolhouse and a Victorian mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Entertainment

• Sing along with Ann Lord and Vicki Keller, who will portray two Victorian Ladies. Lyrics will be provided for songs of the era. Begins at 1:30 p.m. (Century Memorial Chapel)

• Tour Century Memorial Chapel at 2, 3 and 4 p.m.

• Say hello to Captain Joseph Naper and his wife, Almeda, founders of Naperville. Longtime residents Eldon and Madeline Hatch will portray the pioneer couple at 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. (Pre-Emption House Tavern)

• See Peg Yonker portray Hannah Ditzler Alspaugh, whose 19^th century diaries chronicle the growth of Naperville and provide a personal look at Chicago's 1893 Columbian Exposition. Learn about Hannah's life at 2:45 p.m., 3:15 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. (Pre-Emption House Tavern)

• Come and craft a paper Conestoga wagon and fill it with good intentions for the upcoming year. (Meeting House upper and lower levels)

• Enjoy hot drinks, cookies and sweets. (Lower level of Century Memorial Chapel and Pre-Emption House Tavern)

This project is partially supported by a grant from the City of Naperville.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Other 175^th Anniversary Events on Jan. 1

5:30 p.m. Electric Parade begins at Webster Street and Aurora Avenue

7:30 p.m. Fireworks display

8:15 p.m. (time approximate) Carillon Concert

Read the Press Release >