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1. Why is the Mary and Richard Benck Family Agriculture Center being built in Naperville at Naper Settlement?

Naper Settlement brings together historically important buildings and their stories, connecting visitors to Naperville’s heritage and beyond. The Mary and Richard Benck Family Agriculture Center will build on that foundation, providing an immersive opportunity to learn about Naperville’s storied agricultural history and how it connects to the farming story of the region and nation today.

2. What will the exhibits look like?

The exhibits will feature STEM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning opportunities that will highlight such themes as food production, planting and harvesting of crops, mechanics of simple machines, climate, weather, natural resources, and the economic value of agriculture to communities. 

3. How much will the project cost, and where will the funds to build it come from?

Projected costs for the building are $ 3.66 million.  Funding sources include generous support from donors, grants, corporations, and foundations, including a significant gift from the Benck Family Foundation. We also thank Wheatland Plowing Match for their donation of the Wood Bros. Thresher.

4. When will the Center be open to visitors?

Building construction has begun and will wrap up soon. Naper Settlement is in the pre-programming stages of designing the exhibits and experiences that will be housed in the Center.