Naperville - Experience the thrill of an archeological dig without ever leaving the western suburbs when you sign up for "Digging Into History," offered from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 9, and Tuesday, Aug. 14, at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville.

During this inaugural program, take a guided tour of the award-winning "Brushstrokes of the Past...Naperville's Story" exhibit, located in the Pre-Emption House Visitor Center, where you'll journey through Naperville's history. Then, walk with a museum educator to the archeological dig, located on the southeast corner of Jefferson Avenue and Mill Street - the original homestead site of Naperville's founder Joseph Naper. While there, you'll participate in a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the dig, and talk to archeologists and Naper Settlement Preservation Services staff, who are surveying and excavating the site to discover more about how the town's first settlers lived.

"We invite everyone to participate in our new program that offers a rare opportunity to experience history as it happens," said Education Manager Nancy Smith. "It's a great way for residents to learn more about their community's history and a wonderful summertime activity for children to share with their parents and grandparents."

The fee is $10 per person, $9 for Naperville Heritage Society Sustaining Members. Call (630) 420-6010 for reservations. In case of inclement weather on the days of the program, an alternate program will be offered. Visit the Naper Settlement Web site at www.napersettlement.museum for dig updates or call the Event Hotline at (630) 305-5555 for more information.

History comes to life at Naper Settlement, an outdoor museum village, located in downtown Naperville at 523 S. Webster St. Accredited by the American Association of Museums, Naper Settlement has 30 historic structures ranging from a rustic log cabin to an elegant Victorian mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Open year round, for more information about hours and admission prices, visit www.napersettlement.museum or call (630) 420-6010.