Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

John Deere Historic Site

8334 S. Clinton St., Grand Detour, IL 61021

Historic Sites

The company John Deere founded has a presence around the world but it all started in Grand Detour, Illinois. Whether you're a school group, a John Deere fan or a history buff, it's an experience you can't miss. Open April - Oct and admission is free!

When you step foot on the grounds of the John Deere Historic Site, it will feel like taking a step back in time. Hear the floorboards creak as you walk inside John Deere's home. Take in the beauty of the picturesque landscape. And feel the heat of fired steel inside a working blacksmith shop.

The original John Deere home, built in 1836, gives you an intimate glimpse of pioneer life. You'll see how the Deere family raised eight children, not to mention live-in apprentices, in their six-room home. See the rooms as the Deere family would have known them, furnished with period household items that show how pioneers cooked, cleaned, bathed, and spent their few leisure hours. Right next door is the gift shop, where you can find items forged in our blacksmith shop as mementos of your visit. There's also a selection of clothing, hats, and other John Deere Historic Site merchandise.

Open April through October: Sunday 1–5pm, Monday Closed, Tuesday 1pm–5pm, Wednesday–Saturday 9am–5pm. 

Images

More Information

How to find us?

Back to Listings

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.