to the 2015 Lee County Fun Guide
Transcription
to the 2015 Lee County Fun Guide
FREE - Take & Enjoy! 2015 Fun Guide Lee County, North Central Ilinois New! Art & Music section! See page 8 Look Inside: Village of Ashton celebrates 150 years in grand style - See page 5 The 25th anniversary of the Amboy Car Show brings lots of fun and a 50/50 raffle that could give the winner $125,000! - See page 6 www.seelee.info E X P E R I E N C E ELEGANCE ON THE PRAIRIE We offer something for everyone, including art, culture, history, entertainment, and bountiful outdoor activities. First-class concierge services await our guests to assist in planning their enjoyment of Lee County and the surrounding attractions. The Inn, exquisitely re-imagined in a historic 1912 three-story house, features beautifully landscaped grounds, five gorgeous guest rooms, welcoming common areas, spa services, sauna, fireplaces, and more. You will be immersed in comfort to relax as you please! Event and meeting space is also available. Please visit our website at lincolnwayinn.com and join our online family, LWI Bee Connected, to receive information about everything that’s happening at Lincoln Way Inn. Your room awaits you! Lisa Marie Lanz & John Ayres | Co-Owners & Innkeepers Lincoln Way Inn Bed & Breafast 409 N. State Street | Franklin Grove, IL 61031 | 708.860.2311 lisa@lincolnwayinn.com visit us on facebook lincolnwayinn.com Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do 2015 Lee County Fun Guide Welcome! When you’re in Lee County, Illinois, you’ll encounter a relaxed atmosphere that allows you to shift gears and slow down. Wander through local parks, hike the trails of the Franklin Creek State Natural Area, or watch majestic bison roam the sweeping expanse of natural prairie at Nachusa Grasslands. Enjoy strolling through fairs and festivals, and art and craft shows. Get caught up in the excitement of truck and tractor pulls at the Lee County 4-H Fair or the Paw Paw Labor Day Celebration. Try your luck by buying some 50/50 raffle tickets at the 25th Annual Amboy Depot Days Car Show, where the winner’s take has become almost legendary. Find treasures and trinkets as you explore museums, shops and stores. Learn about the early days of an American icon when you visit the Boyhood Home of President Ronald Reagan. Then go a few blocks down the street to the Northwest Territory Historic Center where you can tour an extensive exhibit depicting the lifestyle and legacy of the war chief Blackhawk and the Sauk Indians during the era of the Native American - Blackhawk Indian War. The pace is casual, the folks are friendly, and restaurants and cafes serve meals you’ll savor at prices so reasonable you may be tempted to order dessert, too. We’re very excited to provide this guide to you. It’s a new style, new size and even has a new feature section, Art & Music. Flip through the pages; see what piques your interest. Then come and explore. We want you to See Lee County. And if you’d like to know more, visit our website - www.seelee.info. Contents Farmers Markets .......................................................................... 4 Festival and Events ................................................................... 5-7 Art & Music .............................................................................. 8-11 Camping Guide...................................................................... 12-13 Lodging Guide ....................................................................... 14-15 Getting Around Lee County Map of Lee County ................................................................ 16 Map of Amboy ....................................................................... 17 Map of Ashton ....................................................................... 17 Map of Downtown Dixon ....................................................... 17 Map of West Brooklyn ........................................................... 17 Map of Franklin Grove ........................................................... 18 Map of Paw Paw ................................................................... 18 Map of Steward ..................................................................... 18 Map of Sublette ..................................................................... 18 County Resources ...................................................................... 19 Historic Lee County ............................................................... 20-25 Nature & Recreation .............................................................. 26-27 Dining & Shopping ...................................................................... 28 Money-Saving Coupons ............................................................. 29 Community Index........................................................................ 31 Advertiser’s Index ....................................................................... 31 Phone: 815-288-1840 | Toll Free: 877-533-8687 Email: office@leecountytourism.com | www.seelee.info Photos courtesy of Jennifer Lubbs Photography & Winstead Media Lee County Fun Guide Information contained in this guide has been solicited from area businesses. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy and was accurate at the time of printing. Corrections are welcomed. The resources that are included are provided as a service to tourists and in no way constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Avanti Group or Lee County Tourism Council. Avanti Group is proud to include the Lee County Fun Guide in its family of publications. ©2015 by Avanti Group 46036 Michigan Ave., Suite 211 Canton, MI 48188 800-239-5042 www.publishingbyavanti.com Published by Lee County Tourism Council 113 Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 815-288-1840 877-533-8687 office@leecountytourism.com www.seelee.info View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 3 2015 Festivals & Events Pick up fresh produce and bakery items Farmers Markets held in Dixon, Amboy and Paw Paw at Farmers Markets in Lee County Dixon Park District Farmers Market May through October Wednesdays & Saturdays 7:00 am to Noon Haymarket Square 317 W. Third Street, Dixon Amboy Farmers Market June through October Tuesdays, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, Depot Museum Parking Lot 50 S. East Avenue, Amboy Paw Paw Farmers Market July 3rd through October 9th Fridays, 2:00pm – 6:00pm, Paw Paw Community Building Parking Lot 362 Chicago Road, Paw Paw A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables and home-baked goodies are available at the farmers markets 4 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do Carnival games at Dixon Petunia Festival Jammin’ by the Hedge Row at Chaplin Creek Village during Franklin Grove Summer Harvest Festival Ashton’s 150th Celebration June 11-14 — Ashton The Village of Ashton will celebrate 150 years in grand style with four days of music, entertainment, and activities. A historical display to commemorate the town’s past. The official Grand Opening of the new Splash Pad. Kids Zone, Vendor & Craft Show, Flea Market, Food Court, Beer Garden. Car show, parade, old-fashioned baseball game and the grand finale fireworks. Entertainment by outstanding local and regionally known bands, such as Burn n Bush, Back Country Roads, Lizzy Neal Band, Trippin Molly and others. www.ashtonil.com | Facebook: Ashton Illinois 150 Dixon Petunia Festival July 1-5 — Dixon Lee County’s oldest and largest festival. Top quality carnival attractions, craft show, Taste Trail, Nuts About Art Show, nightly musical entertainment, parade and one of the best fireworks displays in the area. Lots of free activities for the entire family. Held in conjunction with July 4th. www.petuniafestival.org | 815-288-2308 Braving the carnival ride at the Dixon Petunia Festival Young participant with baby goat at the 4-H Fair Lee County 4-H Fair & Jr. Show July 23-26 — Amboy 1196 Franklin Rd., U.S. Hwy 30, 1/2 mile east of U.S. Hwy 52 Reminiscent of the old-fashioned county fair, the 4-H Fair & Jr Show offers fun for the whole family. Kids’ Day, Kids’ Korner, carnival, local music, tractor/truck pulls, mud bags, horse & livestock shows, displays, and great food. Located at Lee County 4-H Center and Fairgrounds, Gates open Thursday at noon; Friday-Sunday at 7am. Last full weekend in July each year. kdallam@hotmail.com www.leecounty4hcenter.com | 815-857-2603 Summer Harvest Festival July 31-August 2 — Franklin Grove Held at various locations throughout the village This festival features historical tours, “old fashioned” equipment, demonstrations, an art show, the Big Rig Show, town-wide garage sales and a parade. Held at various locations throughout the village, at the Chaplin Creek Village and the Living History Antique Equipment Association site – both of which are just outside of town on Whitney Road. Weekend of first Sunday in August. www.chaplincreek.com | 815-456-3030 Bumper cars at Amboy Depot Days Quilting at Chaplin Creek Village during the Franklin Grove Summer Harvest Festival View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 5 2015 Festivals & Events Depot Days and Depot Days Car Show draw huge crowds on the streets of Amboy Depot Days August 27-30 — Amboy The activities begin on Thursday night with the Miss Amboy contest, live entertainment, a teen dance and the opening of the carnival attractions and food stands. The downtown bustles for the rest of the weekend with street vendors, a beer garden, pancake and sausage breakfasts, a pork chop dinner, outstanding live entertainment, 5K run, tractor show, and parade. Most events are free. Weekend before Labor Day. www.depotdays.com | 815-857-3814 Paw Paw Labor Day Celebration September 6-7 — Paw Paw The downtown, park and school grounds come alive with a parade, kids’ games, horseshoe pitching, a flea market/craft show, food and entertainment. Large judged car show. Tractor, truck and garden tractor pulls. Sponsored by the Lions Club. www.illinistatepullers.com | 815-627-2351 (Village Hall) Depot Days Car Show August 30 — Amboy This year marks the 25th anniversary Amboy Depot Days Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show. This is a judged show. Held rain or shine. www.depotdayscarshow.com 25th Anniversary Depot Days Car Show Trivia & Tidbits • First car show was held in 1991 • First 50/50 drawing was held in 1992 • Number of tickets printed in 1992 – 1,500 • Number of tickets printed for 2015 – 500,000 (with option to print more if necessary) • Amount awarded to winner in 1992 - $750 • Amount awarded to winner in 2014 - $107,575 • Second prize in 2014 – a new Harley Davidson Sportster 883 • Second prize in 2015 – a loaded 2015 Chevrolet Cruze 1-LT 6 Paw Paw Car Show (above) and a float at the Paw Paw Labor Day Parade (at left) Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do Raptor education (above) and wagon rides (at right) at Autumn on the Prairie Autumn on the Prairie September 19 — Franklin Grove Guided and self-guided tours, wagon rides, displays, children’s tent, music and food. Local artists painting prairie landscapes. Wagon tours to the bison unit. Nachusa Grasslands, The Nature Conservancy, 8772 S. Lowden Rd. (between Flagg and Naylor roads at Headquarters Building). Held 3rd Saturday in September. bkleiman@tnc.org www.nature.org | 815-456-2340 Holiday fun with Santa and Mrs. Claus Community Christmas Walks Mid-November thru Mid-December — County-Wide Horse drawn carriage rides, Santa Claus, live nativity scenes, arts and crafts, games, and holiday shopping specials. Steaming chili, hot apple cider donuts, fresh kettlekorn. Each community’s event has its own highlights and flavor. Contact the Lee County Tourism Council office for dates and details. www.seelee.info | 815-288-1840 Depot Days 25th Anniversary Car Show August 30, 2015 Bring the whole family and enjoy the crafts, a carnival, the beer garden and many more exciting events, as well as the best car, truck and motorcycle show in northern Illinois. Free parking at the Amboy High School parking lot as well as the Amboy Community Center parking lot. A free shuttle bus will transport people to the show from 9am to 5pm on Sunday only. Held in conjunction with Depot Days in Amboy, Illinois HUGE 50/50 RAFFLE 2014 winner won $107,575 Car Truck & Motorcycle Show, Sunday, 6am-3pm 50/50 Drawing Sunday at 3pm - Main Stage www.depotdayscarshow.com 2nd place wins a brand new 2015 Chevrolet Cruze1-lt. We will attempt to sell a half a million 50-50 tickets with half of the money going to one lucky winner. Like us on Facebook at Amboy Depot Days Car Show 50/50 Drawing View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 7 Art & Music Air Force band in concert at the historic Dixon Theatre AMBOY DIXON Amboy Art & Antiques Amboy Depot Days Amboy Summer Concert Series White Buffalo Music Festival 2nd Saturdays Blues, Brews & BBQ Books on First Crystal Cork Gardenstock Loveland Community House & Museum Musical Fridays The Next Picture Show Petunia Festival Rosbrook Studio Stage Left Trans Infinity Orchestra Venetian Night West End Fest ASHTON Ashton 150th Celebration FRANKLIN GROVE 3rd Fridays Blues & Bluegrass 5th Fridays Music H. I. Lincoln Store Scheffler Art Studio Summer Harvest Festival For more information about 2015 Lee County music and art events, please see listings on pages 13-15. For up-to-date information, visit websites or FaceBook pages included in the listings. Legends and Lore In what Lee County town did Abraham Lincoln often step off the Illinois Central train to stretch his legs and get a haircut? Answer: Amboy What Lee County town sent several trainloads of quarried rock to Chicago to help rebuild after the “Chicago Fire”? Answer: Ashton 8 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do AMBOY Amboy Art & Antiques 231 E. Main St., Amboy, IL 61310 Affordable furniture, retro, kitchenware, mid-century collectibles, antiques, primitives and original artwork. Items crafted in all parts of the world. Open Thursday-Monday 10am-6pm; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Fifteen minutes south of Dixon. (815) 780-4880 Amboy Depot Days Entertainment August 27-30, 2015 FREE live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights. (See page 5 for more information) Artisan Market & Tourist Center 245 E. Main Street, Amboy, IL 61310 Dozens of local artisans display their crafts, create unique gifts, home décor, woodworking, quilting, glass art, poetry, jewelry & more. Try some of our deliciously crafted bakery items, a treat for everyone. www.amboyshops.com | (815) 857-4140 White Buffalo Music Festival August 7-9, 2015 Mendota Hills Campground, Amboy, IL 61310 An epic weekend full of great music by 30+ bands, awesome people, and shenanigans www.whitebuffalomusicfest.com Dad and daughter perform at Dixon Petunia Festival View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info © Jennifer Lubbs Photography Summer Concerts The bandstand in downtown Amboy High quality entertainment by local performers. Bring your lawn chairs, sit back and enjoy! 7pm on select Friday or Saturday nights. 9 Art & Music ASHTON Ashton’s 150th Celebration June 11-14 Outstanding local and regionally known bands with details of a national act to be announced. (See page 5 for more information) DIXON 2nd Saturdays Art Happenings Enjoy unique artists/musicians as they perform at a different business each month. Facebook.com/Second.Saturdays.Art.Happenings Blues, Brews & BBQ Great Blues music, great food and great beer. The Bags for the Brave Bags Tournament is a fundraiser for the Honor Flight of Lee County. Held on First St. between Galena Ave. and Hennepin Ave. from noon-midnight Books on First Corner of First St. and Hennepin Ave. A premier bookstore/coffeehouse. Stop in for superb coffee and conversation. Live musical performances every Saturday night. Go to website for their story and for a calendar of upcoming performers. www.booksonfirst.com | 815-285-2665 The Crystal Cork 219 W. First Street The Cork features wines from Illinois wineries and other countries, bottled domestic and imported beers and their own handcrafted Belgian chocolates. And don’t miss their wine and chocolate specialty – a chocolate covered bottle of wine. Local artists’ works adorn the walls. Live entertainment on select evenings. www.thecrystalcork.com | 815-285-3496 See money-saving coupon on page 29 Dixon Stage Left 306 W. First Street Stage Left is a new special event 'black box' theater venue. The vintage second-floor space has cabaret-style seating with small tables and informal groups of chairs giving intimate views of the stage. www.dixonstageleft.com | 312-420-8715 Gardenstock August 15 Distinctive Gardens, 2020 Lowell Park Road An annual art & music festival to raise funds for Sinnissippi Center's Youth Gardening Program. Facebook.com/Gardenstock 10 Loveland Community House & Museum 513 W. Second Street Enjoy an extensive collection of art on display and Phidian Art Show and Competition. (See page 21 for more information) 815-284-2741 Riverfront Musical Fridays Series Grab some lunch and wander down to the Riverfront where you can enjoy acoustic music by local artists with a river view. And it’s free. Held Memorial Day thru Labor Day, noon-1pm. The Next Picture Show 113 W. First Street A fine arts community center featuring exhibits by local, regional and national artists. Select items available for purchase. Check website for current and upcoming shows. Gallery open Tuesday – Saturday, 8am-4pm or by appointment. nps@grics.net www.TheNextPictureShow.org | 815-285-4924 Facebook.com/thenextpictureshow Dixon Petunia Festival July 1-5 Enjoy Nuts About Art at John Dixon Park, the Art, Craft and Vendor Show at the Loveland Community House & Museum, and music and entertainment throughout the festival. (See page 5 for more information) www.petuniafestival.org Rosbrook Studio 107 S. Peoria Ave. Dixon's premier concert/visual arts venue. Open mic night or professional performers, it’s always a laid-back good time. Minimal admission. Facebook.com/RosbrookStudio Downtown Dixon Enjoy a number of events hosted by Dixon Main Street including: Venetian Night on August 22 West End Fest on October 10 Trans Infinity Orchestra on November 28 For more information, visit www.dixonmainstreet.com 219 W 1st. Dixon, Illinois ph:844.THE.CORK thecrystalcork.com Great Cocktails & Gifts By Friendly Faces Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do FRANKLIN GROVE The Flower Vendor: Winner of one of the Mary DeFrancisco Memorial Awards at the 2015 Phidian Art Show H. I. Lincoln Store 136 N. Elm Street Artwork and hand-made items by local artists. Open Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Sunday, noon-4pm. Closed New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. lynn@lnchwyhq.comcastbiz.net www.lincolnhighwayassoc.org | 815-456-3030 Music at the H. I. Lincoln Building: 3rd Fridays Blues & Bluegrass Open stage. Acoustic music. 7pm. No admission. Donations accepted. 5th Fridays Music For more than a decade, exceptional musical talent has performed at the Fifth Friday shows. Two shows: 7pm and 9pm. Limited seating. Admission charge. Bust of John Nolf by E. P. Seidel: Part of the permanent art collection on display at the Loveland Community House & Museum Summer Harvest Festival Jammin’ by the Fence Row Chaplin Creek Village, 1715 Whitney Rd. Musicians of all kinds and all talent levels sit on hay bales and jam in the shade of the Fence Row. No set times. Just stroll up, sit down and join in. Historic Dixon Theatre Summer Harvest Festival Art Show Winifred Knox Memorial Library, 112 S. Elm Street www.franklingrovelibrary.org | 815-456-2823 Scheffler Studio 115 S. Elm Street www.jerryschefflerarts.com Of Historical Interest ., Village of Paw Paw The first settler to stop at the site of the Village of Paw Paw was the famous Army officer, General Windfield Scott. He and his troops followed old Indian trails that led from Chicago to Galena during the Black Hawk War. The city is named after a tree which bears a sweet, small fruit similar to the taste and shape of a banana. View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info H. I. Lincoln Building in Franklin Grove 11 Camping Guide Green River Oaks Camping Resort 1442 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Amboy, IL 61310 Basketball, tennis, mini golf, volleyball. Weekend recreation programs held Memorial Day thru Labor Day. 130 acres. Reservations required. www.greenriveroaks.com | 815-857-2815 Mendota Hills Campground 642 U.S. Rte. 52, Amboy, IL 61310 Archery, basketball, volleyball, playground, hiking trails. 130 acres. mendotahillscamp@aol.com www.mendotahillscampground.com | 815-849-5930 Facebook.com/mendotahillscampground Pine View Campground 1273 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Amboy, IL 61310 Playground, planned activities. Weekend and permanent sites (for weekend camping) available. info@pineviewcampgrounds.com www.pineviewcampgrounds.com | 815-857-3964 Playground at Pine View Campground O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort www.jellystoneamboy.com (815) 857-3860 970 Green Wing Rd., Amboy IL 61310 O’Connell's Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort 970 Green Wing Rd., Amboy, IL 61310 287 acres of clean camping. Hiking trails, paddle boats, mini-golf, volleyball, horseshoes, double-flume waterslide, arts and crafts center, gem mining sluice, basketball, baseball and soccer fields and planned activities. One-room and two-room rustic cabins, standard and deluxe park models available for rent. Reservations recommended. oconnells@equitylifestyle.com www.jellystoneamboy.com | 815-857-3860 See money-saving coupon on page 29. 12 Getaway to a busy fun-filled, active, kid-friendly Yogi Bear experience! Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do Convenience Store Rental Cabins/Trailers Tent Sites Shower Toilets Pool Fishing Playground Handicapped Accessible Pets Accepted Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N Y Y Y Woodhaven Lakes 509 LaMoille Rd., Sublette, IL 61367 Private ownership camping at its best. Woodhaven's 1,756 acres include seven stocked fishing lakes, extensive trail system, recreation programs and facilities and a nature program. Family, teen and adult centers. Year-round activities. For more information, contact Woodhaven Lakes Realty at 800-849-9574. www.woodhavenassociation.com | 815-849-5209 800-849-9574 | Facebook.com/woodhavenlakes Twitter: #woodhavenlakes Mendota Hills Campground 642 U.S. Rte. 52, Amboy, IL 815-849-5930 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y O’Connell's Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort 970 Green Wing Road, Amboy, IL 815-857-3860 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Pine View Campground 1273 Sleepy Hollow Road, Amboy, IL 815-857-3964 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N Y Y Y Woodhaven Lakes (Private Ownership Camping) 509 LaMoille Road, Sublette, IL 815-857-3964 Y Y Y N N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boating Water & Electric Y Swimming Lake Full Hook-up Sites Green River Oaks Camping Resort 1442 Sleepy Hollow Road, Amboy,IL 815-857-2815 Campground Guide 509 LaMoille Rd. • Sublett e, IL View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 13 Hotels & Motels DIXON DIXON Crawford House Inn 204 E. Third St., Dixon, IL 61021 Beautifully renovated Italianate-style mansion with 4 guest rooms. Home cooked breakfast. Corporate discounts. www.crawfordhouseinn.com | 815-288-3351 FRANKLIN GROVE Comfort Inn 136 Plaza Drive, Dixon, IL 61021 Wake up to a complimentary hot buffet breakfast or visit the fitness room. You can also enjoy the indoor pool with slide, and giant fountain. Rooms and suites available, as well as meeting and party spaces. Near the intersection of I-88 and Route 26. www.cidixon.com | 815-284-0500 or 800-4CHOICE Dixon Super 8 Motel 1800 S. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 Themed Jacuzzi suite, remote control cable TV, weekly rates available. Large vehicle parking. Near the intersection of I- 88 and Route 26. www.super8.com/dixonil 815-284-1800 or 800-800-8000 For more information, call 815-284-1134. 14 Fireplace in Room Refrigerator/Microwave Pet Accepted 815-677-9950 Whirlpool in Room Magnuson Hotel of Dixon Lounge 815-284-1800 Room Service Dixon Super 8 Restaurant 815-284-0500 Meeting Facility The Old Settler’s Cabin was built in 1894 as a memorial to the early settlers of the Rock River Valley. Landowners of the region each provided an initialed log to erect the cabin. The cabin was moved to its present site in the Lincoln Statue Park in 1969. It is owned and maintained by the Lee County Historical & Genealogical Society. Located on Lincoln Statue Drive in Dixon. Comfort Inn Exercise Facility Old Settler’s Memorial Cabin Pool Hotel & Motel Guide High Speed Internet Magnuson Hotel of Dixon 443 IL Rt. 2, Dixon, IL 61021 Connecting rooms available. Refrigerators available upon request. Call for special rates. www.magnusonhotels.com | 815-677-9950 Free Breakfast Lincoln Way Inn Bed & Breakfast 409 N. State Street, Franklin Grove, IL 61031 This exquisitely re-imagined vintage 1912 three-story house features five gorgeous, locally-themed guest rooms, dining room and four-season dining porch, living room, fireplace, library with free computer and printer for guest use, beautifully landscaped grounds with outdoor hot tub, spa services, sauna and more. Free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Full breakfast provided. Rooms are appointed with amenities such as fresh flowers, organic robes, slippers, linens, and towels. Each room features a small refrigerator with beverages, coffee and tea service. Event and meeting space is available. lisa@lincolnwayinn.com www.lincolnwayinn.com | 708-860-2311 See money-saving coupon on page 29. # of Rooms Lodging Guide Bed & Breakfasts 98 Y Y Y Y Y N N N Y Y Y Y 41 Y Y N N N N N N Y N Y N 52 Y Y N N Y N N N Y N N Y Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do Vacation Rentals Cindy Bear Deluxe - Cottage A O'Connell's Jellystone Park | 815-857-3860 Cindy Bear Deluxe - Cottage B O'Connell's Jellystone Park | 815-857-3860 Cindy Bear Cottages are located in Amboy, IL at O’Connell’s Jellystone Park www.jellystoneamboy.com 3 6 2 Y Y Y Y N Y Y N N N N/A 4 8 2 Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y N/A 6 14 2.5 Y Y Y Y Y Y N N N N Y 3 10 1 Y Y Y Y Y Y N N Y N N/A 2 7 1 Y Y Y Y N Y N N N N N/A View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info Large Group Rental Pets Accepted Woodcote Cottage Dixon Park District, Dixon, IL | 815-284-3306 Wheelchair Accessible Dixon, IL | www.vrbo.com/419882 Internet The King Homestead Bed Linens/Towels Supplied Franklin Creek Cabin Franklin Grove, IL | 708-860-2311 | www.vrbo.com/594250 Porch/Deck Vacation Rental Guide Fireplace Franklin Creek Cabin 1484 Old Mill Road, Franklin Grove, IL 61031 Relax on the wrap-around decks and enjoy this oasis of peace and tranquility. Nestled in the wooded bluffs of the Franklin Creek State Natural Area, hiking, birding, trail running, fishing, hunting, and equestrian activities are outside your backdoor. www.vrbo.com/594250 | 815-440-5609 AC Woodcote Lowell Park, 2114 Lowell Park Rd., Dixon, IL 61021 Administrative Office: 804 Palmyra St., Dixon, IL 61021 Located in historic Lowell Park, this stone and timber cottage offers a quiet atmosphere and unique setting. A living room with a huge stone fireplace, great room with three walls of windows and an immense stone fireplace, and two porches. Sleeping accommodations are upstairs. Closed Mid-December through Mid-March | dixonpark2@gmail.com www.dixonparkdistrict.com | 815-284-3306 Heat FRANKLIN GROVE Living Room/Great Room DIXON Full Kitchen King Family Homestead 1215 Institute Blvd., Dixon, IL 61021 Cozy brick bungalow with park-like front and back yard, large screened sitting porch, and hardwood floors. Located near the bike path to Lowell Park and to a 567-acre city park with multipurpose trails and outdoor activities. www.vrbo.com/419882 Baths Cindy Bear’s Cottage 970 Green Wing Rd., Amboy, IL 61310 Bring the family and stay together while apart. One cottage - two units. Lake view, patio and grill. Handicap accessible, No pets allowed. See O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Jellystone Camp Resort for more information on grounds and activities. (Located in the O’Connell's Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort) oconnells@equitylifestyle.com 815-857-3860 Sleeps How Many DIXON Number of Bedrooms AMBOY 15 W Flagg Rd Pump Factory Rd Lowden Rd Midway Rd Ashton Rd S Daysville Rd Green Wing Rd Morgan Rd Brooklyn Rd WEST BROOKLYN Dry Gulch Rd Spur Rd Inlet Rd Peru Rd Brooklyn Rd N Mason Ave Walton Rd Shady Oaks Rd 17 Shady Oaks Golf Course Tower Rd Union Rd nW ing R Sublette Rd Rogers Rd La Moille Rd Maytown Rd 52 Bartlett Woods 10,000 • 02/09 52 Peoria Rd Easy Rd Amboy (page 17) 1 - Amboy City Park 2 - Amboy Pharmacy 3 - Amboy Depot Museum Baseline Rd West Brooklyn (page 17) 1 - West Brooklyn Village Park Downtown Dixon (page 17) Ashton (page 17) 1 - Griffith Park 2 - Mills Petrie Memorial Building Franklin Grove (page 18) 1 - Franklin Creek State Natural Area & Franklin Creek Grist Mill 2 - H.I. Lincoln Building 3 - Atlasta Park 4 - Chaplin Creek Village 5 - Living History Antique Equipment Association 1 - Lincoln Statue & Old Settlers Log Cabin 2 - Dixon Welcome Center 3 - Next Picture Show 4 - Loveland Community House & Museum 6 - Telegraph Museum 7 - Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society 8 - Historic Dixon Theatre 9 - Old Lee County Courthouse & Lincoln Speech Marker 10 - Crawford House Inn 11 - Northwest Territory Historic Center 12 - Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home 13 - KSB Hospital ((H) symbol – no number) Paw Paw (page 18) 1 - Roger’s Park 2 - Village Park 3 - Lions Park Steward (page 18) 1 - Steward Depot 2 - Wesley Steward Memorial Park Sublette (page 18) 1 - Burma-Shave Replica Signs 2 - Mesker Storefront 3 - Elice Dinges Center 4 - Sublette Centennial Park Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do 251 SUBLETTE Sublette Rd Center Rd d Pump Factory Rd Shaw Rd Shaw Rd 15 Green River State Wildlife Area Game Rd Atkinson Rd Harmon Rd s Rd Indian Head Rd 12 Searl d rd R Hamilton Rd Rd 16 kyfo Keigwin Rd 52 Roc Sleepy Hollow Rd ve nA Morman Rd 14 26 so AMBOY 13 10 Amboy City Park Amboy Rd 30 Schier Rd St Ma 26 Inlet S Harmon Rd Main WALTON Map Legends 16 52 Sterling Rd HARMON Burke Rd Herman Rd LEE CENTER 11 Sleepy Hollow Rd Tampico Rd McGirr Rd 30 Sterling Rd Van Petten Rd Reynolds Rd 10 ELDENA 26 34 31 88 52 S Eldena Rd 30 30 88 ay Reynolds Rd 9 Pine Hill Rd 52 11 Harmon Rd Nelson Rd er Riv ck Ro 88 Reagan Memorial Tollway Rea road Rail ific k Rd Trac w Toll Pac FRANKLIN GROVE 2 rial emo M gan Rd NELSON n Unio Gree ad Railro 38 Lee Center Rd R ena Eld cific n Pa Unio 11 38 Rockyford Rd Nelson Rd Dixon Franklin Grove Rd Municipal Airport 7 d dR lan Is ock Av e Robbins Rd Woodland Shores go 38 Nachusa Rd Sauk Valley Community College ASHTON Franklin Creek State Natural Area 26 Bloody Gulch Rd 3 CASTELLAN 38 Old Mill Rd Red Brick Rd 2 ica er Ro Nachusa Grasslands d St Ch U.S. Road Illinois State Highway Gurler Rd 8 E 2n Riv ck Emerald Hill Golf Course 2 Original Lincoln Highway Galena Trail & Coach Road Routes Whitney Rd 4 er Rd E Riv KSB Hospital-Dixon Interstate Chicago-Kansas City Expressway Naylor Rd 1 2 2 2 1 Timber Creek Golf Course Miller Golf Complex Town / Community Ronald Reagan Trail Lincoln Highway Franklin Rd DIXON yr lm Pa d 2 Twist Rd d eR yra R d aR Lost Nation Rd v ro Palm Lowell Park 6 5 Maples Rd 52 rG Mound Lowell Park Rd Peek Home Rd 26 ga Weldon Rd Hill Rd Pilgrim Rd Su Getting Around Lee County TOWN *This map is for genera See map legends - page 16 AMBOY 1 Joe Dr 4 Miles 2 Mark Ct Oak St Burre Ct 4 KM Lee Rd Viking Vie 39 6 Lowell Park 7 Hotels 8 Nachusa Grasslands 9 Chaplin Creek Village St et n ron Pie W in Ma Short State St lto Mi Preserve 38 Campground 15 Mendota Hills Campground Alan St 16 Shady Oaks Golf Course Carnahan Rd Killmer Blackstone St Jefferson St Main St S 4th Dr 17 Woodhaven Lakes Resort k Trac Midway Rd Cottage Hill Rd Welland Rd Rd 1st S Brown Ave 14 Green River Oaks N 2nd St 2 N 1st St Evans Ave 39 1 Douglas Richardson 13 Pine View Campground PAW PAW Western COMPTON 52 N 3rd St Paddock o Rd Camp-Resort Tracy Ave Chicag t ro eA ve N 4th St 12 O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Flagg St 251 nS 11 Lee County 4-H Center Paw Paw Rd German Rd Steward Rd Beemerville Rd Bingham Rd Fisk Rd Stainbrook Rd ing to ASHTON 10 Temperance Hill Prairie 251 Mo n t nS 30 30 W as h Locust t in S E Ma rS t Park St 2 3 ms St Timber Creek Golf Course Pearl St Amboy City Park St 5 Pleasant St 1 St Bl uff Veterans Memorial Park st Mason St 4 Ea Division St Ad a Hotel Metcalf St 3 ve nA LEE Midway Drive-In Theatre W ate 251 2 Bacon St Church St Provost St o dis Ma County Line Rd Steward Rd Bu rli Sa ngto nta n N o Fe Ra rther ilro n ad Emerald Hill Golf Course Jones St Perry Rd Main St 1 Killion STEWARD Perry Rd Hawley St Clark St East Ashley 39 Appleton Ave 251 Sterling Rd 52 ista Dr N El V Woodlawn Rd N Jones 0 2 St Hicks Ave 1 Cartwright Ave 0 Cemetary Rd al navigation purposes only. Some roads have been left out for map readability. Ashton Rd DOWNTOWN DIXON 2 26 Lincoln Statue Dr 1 52 52 t 38 52 t 6th S 4th 3rd Gehant Ave 2nd e 1st St v ent A 11 5th S Berninger St Ave t 4th S Dem t 3rd S ve ford A Woods St 10 4 Dixon West Brooklyn 9 a Ave Ottaw e na Av Gale ve ipin A Henn e ia Av Peor Ave land High Ave ison Mad 2 Johnson St 6 5 8 7 Craw e 1 t nd S 3 2 oe Av t 1st S Water St 2 t River S Monr Brooklyn Rd WEST BROOKLYN t 7th S 12 View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 17 STEWARD PAW PAW Wyoming Ave 1 7th Miller St 2 Chicago Rd Perry Rd Clark St Tyler St Dewey St Fuller St John St Chapman St Chase Peru St Harrington Maple St Clark St Wilson 3 Elizabeth Chicago Rd Lions Dr 2 Main St Wabansi Trail Park Ave School St 1 Flagg St 8th S t St Steward Ave Wiley Ave Wheeler St SUBLETTE Brookside Dr Center Rd Rosenkrans Dr hm St 2 North St y St ne Whit Franklin St t Walnut St Hughes St Hillside Dr an S Lahm Elm St Spring St South St Sycamore St 2 St Brown St ey Rd 4 Whitn 3 5 Of Historical Interest ., Village of Sublette Sublette was established in 1854 when the Illinois Central Railroad came through. The first settlers were farmers from New England and Germany. During the late 1800’s the village boasted the largest infantry unit in the state. This was a result of the leadership of Barthalomaus Theiss, an immigrant of France who had served in the military service under Napoleon. Sublette was also the home of Dr. Ben Angear who participated a painless method of childbirth, “Twilight Sleep.” 18 t Ch es 1s t dS 2n Grove Park Middle St Front St 1st St West St 4 38 d Sublette Rd 3 38 Santee St on John St Center St Hall St Virginia St Sublette Rd Maple St Ric Santee St Daysville Old Mill Rd Seymore St Gardner St Snyder St Inlet Rd FRANKLIN GROVE 1 52 Public St Main Getting Around Lee County See map legends - page 16 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do nu tS t 1 GOVERNMENT RESOURCES TRAVEL RESOURCES City of Amboy - 61310 City Hall: 227 E. Main St. 815-857-3814 cityofamboy@comcast.net www.cityofamboy.com www.amboyshops.com Lee County Tourism Council 113 Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 815-288-1840/877-533-8687 office@leecountytourism.com Hours: Mon. – Wed., 9:30am-4:30pm www.seelee.info Village of Ashton - 61006 Village Offices: 810 Main St. 815-453-2241 clerk@ashtonusa.com mayor@ashtonusa.com www.ashtonusa.com City of Dixon - 61021 City Hall: 121 W. Second St. 815-288-1485 inquire@discoverdixon.org www.discoverdixon.org Village of Franklin Grove 61031 Village Hall: 105 E. South St., 815-456-2131 franklingrove@wireless.essex1.com Village of Paw Paw - 61353 Village Hall: 362 Chicago Rd. 815-627-2351 pawpawclerk@heartlandcable.com Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri., 8am-noon; Tues. 1:30pm-6pm. Village of Steward - 60553 Village Hall: 402 Main St. 815-396-2846 villageofsteward@gmail.com Facebook.com/ stewardcelebrationgarden Village of Sublette - 61367 Village Offices: Ellice Dinges Center, 202 S. West St. (PO Box 86) 815-849-5432 subletteclerk@heartlandcable.com www.subletteweb.com Village of West Brooklyn 61378 Village Hall: 2506 Johnson St. Facebook.com/ TheVillageofWestBrooklyn Dixon Welcome Center 83 S. Peoria Ave. Dixon, IL 61021 815-284-3496 info@discoverdixon.com www.discoverdixon.com Facebook.com/discoverdixon Hours: Mon. – Sat. 10am-4pm, Sundays (seasonal), noon-4pm. Paw Paw The Village of Illinois Paw Paw preserves that small town friendly atmosphere located just 70 miles west of Chicago. Come and See Us and You’ll Agree… ...Why Live Anywhere Else? Dixon Area Chamber of Commerce 101 W. 2nd Street, Suite 301 815-284-3361 john.thompson@dixoncc.com www.dixonillinoischamber.com COMMUNITY RESOURCES Dixon Main Street 115 S. Hennepin Ave. 815-288-2308 riverfrontdixon@gmail.com www.dixonmainstreet.com Mills and Petrie Memorial Library & Gymnasium 704 N. First St., Ashton, IL 61006 815-453-2213 library@ashtonusa.com millspetrierental@yahoo.com Facebook.com/Mills & Petrie Memorial Building – Library and Gymnasium Saturday, April 4th Sunday, September 6th Lower Level Community Building, 362 Chicago Rd., 8am-11am Paw Paw Village Park, Chapman St. & Chicago Rd., Noon-Tractor Pull – 4pm, Ice Cream Social Methodist Church Annual Easter Bake Sale Paw Paw Lion’s Club Labor Day Celebration Saturday, April 4th Monday, September 7th Paw Paw Village Park, Chapman St. & Chicago Rd., 11:30am Paw Paw Village Park, Chapman St. & Chicago Rd,, 10am, Tractor Pull – 1pm, Car show, flea market Annual Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 11th Lions Club Pork Chop BBQ LAW ENFORCEMENT Lower Level Community Building, 362 Chicago Rd., 4:30pm-7pm Lee County Sheriff's Dept. 306 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 Non-emergency: 815-284-6631 For emergencies dial: 911 Facebook:Lee County Sheriff's Department, Dixon IL Administrative Hours of Operation: Mon.-Fri., 8:30am-4:30pm Closed Saturday, Sunday and Legal Holidays Paw Paw Town-Wide Garage Sales Saturday, April 18th Labor Day Parade Monday , September 7th Wyoming Indians 4H Pancake Breakfast Lower Level Community Building, 362 Chicago Rd., 7am-10am Saturday, September 19th Paw Paw Town-Wide Garage Sales Starting at 8am Starting at 8am Monday, May 25th Friday, December 11th Paw Paw Lions Pancake Breakfast Lower Level Community Building, 362 Chicago Rd., 7-10am Paw Paw Annual Christmas Celebration Lighting of the Christmas Tree at 5:45pm. Santa and Mrs. Claus starting at 6pm. Village of Paw Paw | 815-627-2351 PO Box 426, 362 Chicago Rd., Paw Paw, IL 61353 View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 19 Historic Lee County The steam locomotive displayed in front of the Amboy Depot Museum AMBOY Amboy Depot Museum 50 S. East Ave., Amboy, IL 61310 This Illinois Central Railroad Depot, built in 1876, has been completely transformed into a 19-room museum reflecting the history of the Amboy area. There is also a steam locomotive, a one-room schoolhouse, the Illinois Central Freight House, and a 1920s era Norfolk & Western caboose all open to tour. Free admission. Donations welcome. Open Fri. & Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun. & Thur., 1pm-4pm. Closed December 1 – March 31. amboyicrrmuseum@yahoo.com www.amboydepotmuseum.org | 815-857-4700 Facebook.com/Amboy Illinois Central Depot Museum The unused South Central School building, where a young Ronald Reagan attended grammar school, was put to good use when it was restored in the 1980s to become Northwest Territory Historic Center with many interesting exhibits including Ronald Reagan’s restored sixth grade classroom and the Reagan History Room. 20 Amboy Pharmacy 202 E. Main St., Amboy, IL 61310 Fully functioning pharmacy, soda fountain, penny candy, gifts, cards, and old fashioned atmosphere. Open Mon. - Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. 8am-3pm. Open all year, closed Sundays 815-857-2323 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do DIXON Northwest Territory Historic Center 205 W. Fifth St., Dixon, IL 61021 Built in 1908 as Dixon’s South Central School. Ronald Reagan attended this school from 1921-1923. His sixth grade class room has been restored. A museum store and art gallery are on the first floor. Two new exhibits on the Native American - Black Hawk War and on Early American Farming are on the second floor. The top floor is a research center. Proud affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Open Tues - Sat., 9am-4pm. Closed Sunday and Monday. info@nthc.org www.nthc.org | 815-288-5508 See money-saving coupon on page 29. Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society 111-113 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 The Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society is dedicated to the preservation of historical and genealogical information and artifacts, as well as aiding people in their research. The society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, relying on work by volunteers and individual's donations to help pay expenses. The library has thousands of historical and genealogical items that can be helpful in your research. Open to the public Tues., Wed., Fri. 10am-4pm; Sat.9am-noon. www.leecountyhgs.org | 815-284-1134 Loveland Community House and Museum 513 W. 2nd St., Dixon, IL 61021 Step back in time and get a glimpse of Dixon and Lee County history. There are exhibits from the life of “Father” John Dixon, the Blackhawk War, and the Civil War, as well as many items on local history and of course President Ronald Reagan. The Loveland also boasts an extensive art collection. There is no charge to visit the museum. The building is fully handicapped accessible. Business hours: Mon. - Fri., 8am-4pm; Museum hours: Thu., Fri., 9am-2pm; Sat., 10am-3pm. Special times for art tours or guided group tours may be arranged. swilson@lovelandcommunityhouse.org www.lovelandcommunityhouse.org | 815-284-2741 Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society Home of the Stella Grobe Research Center and Rita Welsh Memorial Library Library Hours Tues., Wed., Fri. 10am - 4pm; Sat. 9am – Noon Mon. & Thurs. by appointment leecountyhgs@gmail.com • www.leecountyhgs.org 111-113 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 • (815) 284-1134 Of Historical Interest ., Carson Pirie Scott Store Site The department store chain known as Carson Pirie Scott originated in 1854, when Samuel Carson and John T. Pirie immigrated to Illinois from Northern Ireland. The first store called Carson & Pirie opened in 1855 in Amboy. In 1856, Samuel Carson recruited family friends George and Robert Scott from Ireland to come to America to work in the Amboy store. In the next three years, Carson and Pirie opened branches of their store in neighboring towns. A plaque denoting the original site of the first Carson Pirie Store is displayed on a storefront at 55 S. East Ave. in Amboy. Old Lee County Courthouse 112 E. Second St., Dixon, IL 61021 The Old Lee County Courthouse sits on land donated by the founder of Dixon. Construction of this building was completed in 1901 at a cost of $103,394.94. Several county offices are located in this building. On the lawn you will find a stone marker that commemorates a day in 1856 when Abraham Lincoln addressed a crowd and a monument to local baseball hero Ward Miller, who played for both minor and major league baseball teams, including the Chicago Cubs. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8am-4:30pm. www.leecountyil.com | 815-288-5676 View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 21 Historic Lee County DIXON Historic Dixon Theatre 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 The year 1922 saw the opening of the “new” Dixon Theatre. Terrazzo flooring, imported Italian marble, stunning crown moldings, and a two-tiered lighted domed ceiling gave it the reputation as one of the Midwest’s most beautiful “show houses.” Thanks to the extensive restoration done through the efforts of volunteers and with community support, this historic site has become a showcase for the performing arts and is also available for rental. info@dixontheatre.com www.dixontheatre.com | 815-285-1917 Facebook.com/historicdixontheatre Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home 816 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 This house was the Reagans’ first home when the family moved to Dixon. The home has been restored to its 1920 condition and is the core of a small complex including a visitors center, gift shop, and park with a statue of the former president. Admission charge. Open Apr. 1 thru Oct. 31, Mon.-Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm. info@reaganhome.org www.ronaldreaganhome.org | 815-288-5176 Facebook.com/reaganhome Twitter.com/reaganhome See money-saving coupon on page 29. Telegraph Museum The Dixon Telegraph Museum showcases the newspaper and its role in the history of Dixon. The display area has an old fashioned 1850s printing press, historic newspapers and photographs showcasing the Telegraph and Dixon’s past. A tribute to President Ronald Reagan includes photos from his pre-Washington days and his days in Dixon, Illinois. Open for self-guided tours Mon. - Fri. 8:00am-5pm. Free admission. The Ronald Reagan BOYHOOD HOME & VISITOR’S CENTER Visit the home where young Dutch Reagan spent some of his most formative years. 815-288-5176 www.reaganhome.org Open daily April 1 - October 31 Mon.-Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun., 1pm-4pm (closed Easter) $5.00 adult admission. Ages 12 and under free with paid adult. Free Wi-Fi Legends and Lore As a boy, Ronald Regan had a special hiding place in the family home for money he’d earned. Can you guess where it might have been? Answer: Under a loose tile in the hearth of the fireplace in the parlor of his boyhood home in Dixon Reagan Boyhood Home Complex in Dixon The 22 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do FRANKLIN GROVE Chaplin Creek Village 1715 Whitney Rd., Franklin Grove, IL 61031 Chaplin Creek Village is an evolving, full-scale historical restoration project depicting a prairie settlement typical of the middle 19th century. Historically significant buildings and artifacts have been relocated from the surrounding area. Enjoy visiting the grounds and touring the buildings during the Summer Harvest Festival in August. Available for special event rentals. www.chaplincreek.com | 815-456-3030 Franklin Creek Grist Mill 1893 Twist Rd., Franklin Grove, IL 61031 Built by volunteers, this is the only truly water-powered operating grist mill in Illinois. Corn grinding is often done on the last Saturday of the month. Upper floors feature wood paneling from 43 different species of trees and other exhibits highlight natural and historic features of the area. The Mill is available for rent for meetings and special events. Visit our website for up to date information on exhibits, educational walks and special events. Open weekends, noon-4pm, April thru October and by appointment. www.franklincreekgristmill.com | 815-456-2718 Lincoln Highway Association National Tourism Headquarters and H.I. Lincoln Store 136 N. Elm St., Franklin Grove, IL 61031 In 1860 Henry I. Lincoln, a distant relative of Abraham Lincoln, erected a two-story, native limestone building to house his dry goods store. Now this unique structure is home to the Lincoln Highway Association National Tourism Headquarters, which offers information on this iconic road as well as Lincoln Highway gifts and collectibles. And the H. I. Lincoln Store, a consignment-style shop that offers artwork by local artists and hand-made items by local crafters and vendors. Open Mon. - Sat. 10am-4pm; Sun. noon-4pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter. lynn@lnchwyhq.comcastbiz.net www.lincolnhighwayassoc.org | 815-456-3030 Of Historical Interest ., Franklin Grove In 1836 Col. Nathan Whitney purchased a 28-acre tract of timber. Soon other families settled near the grove, many from the Germantown, PA area. A small business district area, named Chaplin, grew around the first cabin and soon a post office was established. Mail was brought in once a week by Whitney. He was paid by a share of the postage collected. His earnings for the first quarter of the year was 37 cents. EXPAND YOUR IT H O R IZ O N S .. .V IS K! E E R C IN L K N A R F The Franklin Creek State Natural Area Franklin Creek Grist Mill & Interpretive Center Franklin Creek Grist Mill is a working reproduction of a mill located at the site in 1847. View the water power in action, traditional building techniques, 43 wood panels that represent tree species in Illinois and other timely exhibits from noon-4pm every Saturday and Sunday from April through October. Corn grinding days occur monthly. Explore miles of trails through high quality woodlands, past sandstone bluffs and along winding streams. On many weekends, guided hikes feature local beauty such as wild flowers, birds or geological formations. 815-456-2718 • www.franklincreekgristmill.com • 1893 Twist Rd., Franklin Grove, IL View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 23 Historic Lee County John Deere Historic Site STEWARD Steward Depot 206 Tyler Ave., Steward, IL 60553 Built in 1896, the Steward Depot was deeded to the village in 1976 by the Burlington Northern Railroad. The Depot is now under the management of the Village Board. Future plans are to turn the depot into a public facility. villageofsteward@gmail.com Facebook.com/stewardillinoisdepotproject STERLING In 1837, John Deere hammered out the first successful self-scouring steel plow at this location. Visitors will see the restored John Deere home, view the archaeological site of his original shop, and visit a functioning blacksmith’s shop. The visitor’s center houses a gift shop and tour information. Open Wed.- Sun. 9am-5pm; May 1 - Oct. 31. Admission charge. The site is located at 8334 S. Clinton St., Grand Detour in Dixon. For more information, call 815-652-4551 or visit www.johndeereattractions.com. The Midway Drive-In Theatre 91 Palmyra Rd., Sterling, IL 61081 The Midway Drive-In has been in continuous operation since it opened in 1950. The classic retro “spaceship” ticket booth, playground in front of the screen, concession stand, self-serve eat-in diner, and giant 90 foot wide screen make an evening at the Midway like a trip back to the 1950’s. The Midway is available to rent for your special event. The parking lot can hold up to 500 cars. info@themidwaydrivein.net www.themidwaydrivein.net | 847-647-3124 Historic 19th century Steward Depot building Burma Shave Replica Signs Sublette was the only such site in Illinois to be awarded the signs by Reminisce Magazine. Signs are approximately a half-mile south of Sublette on Hwy 52. Of Historical Interest Lincoln Statue This statue of 23-year-old Abraham Lincoln as a volunteer soldier is the only one showing him in military garb. Young Lincoln is depicted as Captain of the Sangamon County Volunteers and stands at the site of Fort Dixon where soldiers served during the Blackhawk Indian War of 1832. It is located on Lincoln Statue Drive between the Galena Ave. Bridge and the Peoria Ave. Bridge in Dixon. 24 ., Village of Steward Steward was named for Wesley Steward who in 1855 came to this area to settle the land owned by his father, Marcus. Marcus Steward was influential in getting the Burlington Northern Railroad through the township in 1870. The Village Hall on Main Street is one of the oldest buildings and houses the jail cells bought in 1903. The first house in Steward is also standing today, built in 1872, as well as the 1874 Methodist New England architectural style church. A new memorial garden was added in 2012 next to the Village Hall. Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do Legends and Lore A world famous evangelist preached at one of Lee County’s small towns. During his college years he often spent weekends there and was a best-man at a wedding in this town. Who is the evangelist and what is the town? Answer: Rev. Billy Graham, Sublette What nationally known drug store chain has its roots in Dixon? Answer: Walgreens What department store chain began as a small dry goods store in Amboy? Answer: Carson Pirie Scott Raising the funding to build the first transcontinental highway across the United States was quite an undertaking for the original Lincoln Highway Association. One fundraiser was the nationwide sales of lapel buttons. Where was the very first such button sold? Answer: At a fundraiser held at the H.I. Lincoln Building in Franklin Grove Veterans Memorial Park 668 Veterans Parkway, Dixon, IL 61021 Veterans Memorial Park is dedicated to all veterans of military service. Military artifacts on display include an F-105 Thunderchief fighter bomber, an AH1 Cobra Helicopter, an M-60 (A-3) tank, a 155mm howitzer, an LST anchor, and WWI, WWII and Vietnam KIA plaques. A quiet reflection area and legacy stone pathways honor area veterans. www.honorourvets.org "A place devoted to ALL who have dedicated their lives to the preservation of the Freedoms of this great Country… Veterans Memorial Arch In 1919, communities throughout the United States built temporary Veterans Memorial arches to welcome home those who had served in World War I. Some remained to welcome World War II veterans. The Dixon arch has been repaired, rebuilt and even relocated 145 feet from its original position. It is the last standing arch of its kind and has become an iconic symbol for the city of Dixon. It is located between 2nd & 3rd streets on Galena Ave. in Dixon. A place that, through the honorable display of authentic artifacts, will serve as a podium from which the appreciation for ALL those who have served this great Country will be spoken… A place to prompt future generations to contemplate the sacrifices and costs of obtaining and maintaining the Freedoms of this great Country." View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 25 DIXON Amboy City Park (Green River City Park) E. Main St., Amboy, IL 61310 Picnic areas, shelters, charcoal grills, playground equipment, two lighted ball diamonds, water, electricity and bathrooms. Sculptured trees are located throughout the park showing the rich heritage of this picturesque community. Five blocks east of Rte. 52. Closed Nov. 1 - Apr. 1. cityofamboy@comcast.net 815-857-3814 View the Bison It has been over 200 years since the bison have roamed the prairies of Illinois, and now, thanks to the Nature Conservancy, bison once again roam the 500 acres of Nachusa Grasslands. The bison were reintroduced to restore the ecological balance of the natural prairie. With over 1100 acres, the Dixon Park District offers diverse recreational opportunities and green space to residents and visitors. Boat ramps are located at Lowell Park, Page Park, and Custer Ave. Many public activities are scheduled by the park district throughout the year. See website for a schedule of summer events. www.dixonparkdistrict.com | 815-284-3306 Dixon Riverfront Heritage Crossing Dixon Riverfront, Dixon, IL 61021 Located between Galena Ave. and Peoria Ave., this open air plaza sits upon the historic site of an 1830’s ferry crossing. The area features period lighting, trees, benches, outdoor tables with seats, restrooms, a Pavilion that offers covered seating, and amphitheater seating that is excellent for performance or speaking. The highlight of the fountain area is a bronze statue of Ronald Reagan on horseback. For reservations and rental information call 815-288-2308 or visit Dixon Main Street & Riverfront on Facebook www.discoverdixon.org/riverfront Pro Shop Driving Range Practice Area Food Served Lessons Available Cart Rental Emerald Hill Golf Course 16802 Prairieville Rd, Sterling www.emeraldhillgolf.com | 815-622-6204 9 36 1150 Y Y Y Y NA Y Y Shady Oaks Country Club 577 US Rte 52, Amboy www.shadyoakscc.com | 815-849-5424 18 71 6,212 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Timber Creek Golf Course 729 Timber Creek Rd, Dixon www.timbercreekdixon.com | 815-288-5110 18 71 6,504 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Golfing Guide 26 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do Full Service Bar Par Lowell Park 2114 Lowell Park Rd., Dixon, IL 61021 Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this park boasts a 40 acre Illinois Nature Preserve and has all the amenities for picnicking and outdoor activities. Located three miles north of Dixon. dixonpark2@gmail.com dixonparkdistrict.com | 815-284-3306 # of Holes Fully grown bison weigh between 1100 and 1200 lbs. and they can run as fast as a horse. Both males and females have horns. Life expectancy is 15 years in the wild and 25 years in captivity.This is just one of 13 preserves which are home to a total of 5,500 bison. Plans for building a Visitors Use Area are in the works. 804 Palmyra St., Dixon, IL 61021 dixonpark2@gmail.com Total Yards Nature & Recreation AMBOY FRANKLIN GROVE Franklin Creek State Natural Area 1872 Twist Rd., Franklin Grove, IL 61031 This 922 acres of wooded area contains a 198-acre dedicated nature preserve and the oldest bedrock outcropping in the state. Picnicking, hiking, horseback riding and a horseman’s campground, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and fishing. The scenic Mill Springs Trail, a rare concrete surfaced trail, and the John Husar Memorial Fishing Pier are both accessible to people of all mobility levels. Hours: 8am to sunset. elmer.stauffer@illinois.gov www.franklincreekgristmill.com | 815-456-2878 www.dnr.illinois.gov Nachusa Grasslands - The Nature Conservancy 8772 S. Lowden Rd., Franklin Grove, IL 61031 With less than one-tenth of one percent of native Illinois prairie remaining, Nachusa Grasslands provides an opportunity for people to enjoy a part of this rare ecosystem. Encompassing over 3,100 acres, the Grasslands are comprised of sandstone outcrops, rolling hills, oak savannas, wetlands and a virtual sea of bluestem prairie. In the fall of 2014, 30 head of Bison were introduced to the Nachusa Grasslands with more to come in 2015. The main Lowden Road entrance has an information kiosk with maps. Go to the website for information on hiking, photography and bird watching. bkleiman@tnc.org www.nachusagrasslands.org | 815-456-2340 www.nature.org HARMON Green River State Wildlife Area 375 Game Rd., Harmon, IL 61042 One of the largest native prairie areas left in Illinois, this area is home to many endangered species of birds, plants, reptiles and insects. The 2,565 acre site is used for education programs, hiking and Class C Camping. Hunting by permit. Equestrian trail riding permitted April 15th thru October 31st. Three miles west of Rt. 26 off of Maytown Rd. dnr.illinois.gov | 815-379-2324 GREEN RIVER CYCLERY Bicycle Service & Repair 815-622-8180 www.greenrivercyclery.com 205 E. First St., Dixon, IL 61021 “We Take Your Fun Seriously” bike_doctor@hotmail.com Outdoor Activities in Lee County BIKING Lee County offers many low-traffic, paved roads for relaxed sightseeing, touring or for serious distance workouts. An area favorite biking trail is the Lowell Parkway in Dixon. It extends from Washington Avenue to Lowell Park covering 3½ miles. At Lowell Park Road it connects with Joe Stengel Trail that covers 11 miles and ends in Polo. For more information: 815-284-3306 or visit www.dixonparkdistrict.com BOATING The Rock River is a popular boating waterway for motorboats, pontoon boats, fishing boats & canoes. For information on boat launches in the Dixon area call the Dixon Park District at 815-284-3306 or email: dixonpark2@gmail.com. FISHING Virtually all of the campgrounds and parks in Lee County offer fishing ponds, lakes, streams or rivers. The Rock River’s reputation for catfish, bass, carp and walleye is widespread. The John Husar Memorial Fishing Pier in the Franklin Creek State Natural Area is easily accessible for those with limited mobility. HIKING The Franklin Creek State Natural Area offers one of the few trails that is easily accessible to people of all mobility levels. This 5 ft. wide concrete trail meanders along Franklin Creek with picnic benches and barbecue grills at intervals along the trail. The Seasons of Change Interpretive Trail self-guided hiking tour features fourteen stops with informational signage explaining the unique aspects and seasonal transitions of the area. The trail starts and ends at the Franklin Creek Grist Mill and takes approximately an hour. HORSEBACK RIDING Horseback riding and equestrian camping are permitted at Franklin Creek State Natural Area and the Green River State Wildlife Area. Day riding is permitted at The Meadows. Contact the Dixon Park District for maps of riding trails at the Meadows or go to www.dixonparkdistrict.com. HUNTING Outdoor sports enthusiasts may contact the Franklin Creek State Natural Area or the Green River State Wildlife Area for detailed information on hunting. For information on hunting permits go to www.dnr.illinois.gov; Public Hunting Areas; Region 1. The Meadows site of the Dixon Park District offers bow hunting in deer and turkey seasons by permit. Permits limited. Call 815-284-3306 for more information on registration, orientation and proficiency dates. View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 27 Dining & Shopping Culver's of Dixon 1317 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 While Culver’s is famous for ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard, their menu offers something truly special for everyone. Hours: 10am-10pm. Buses and large groups welcome! www.culvers.com | (815) 288-9403 The Good Book 113 E. First Street, Suite 150, Dixon, IL 61057 Christian books, cards, gifts, music and more. The words of the Lord are pure, Like silver tried on a furnace, Purified seven times. Psalm 12:6. (815) 285-4463 Timber Creek Golf & Banquet 729 Timber Creek Rd. Dixon, IL 61021 Gourmet Sunday Brunch, every Sunday from 10am-2pm. Huge selection of breakfast and lunch favorites, Belgian waffles, omelets, full salad bar and dessert station. Reservations recommended. www.timbercreekdixon.com | (815) 285-5110 Artisan Market & Tourist Center Local arts and unique crafts, woodworking, quilting, glass art, poetry, jewelry & more. Deliciously crafted bakery items. Hours: Tue.-Fri., 8:30am-5pm; Sat.-Sun., 10am-3pm 245 E. Main St., Amboy, IL 61310 (815) 857-4140 | www.amboyshops.com Facebook.com Artisan Market Amboy Lincolnway Café 137 N. Elm St., Franklin Grove, IL 61031 Home cooked menu with generous portions. Daily specials. Breakfast available all day. You won't leave hungry! Open Mon.-Thurs., 6am-3pm; Friday, 6am-8pm; Saturday, 6am-3pm; Sunday, 7am-3pm. (815) 456-2359 Traditional Wellness Center 216 W. First St., Dixon, IL 61021 Offering healthy breakfast/lunch, tea room, bulk teas and coffees, gift shop with local artists, classes, personal training, wellness and herbal counseling, catering, space for parties and more. www.traditionalwellnesscenter.com (815) 677-9144 alena Enjoy Fine Dining Any Day of the Week With Us STEAKHOUSE Soups & salads, steaks & chops, seafood, sandwiches, salad bar with a variety of fresh salad makings, full bar Reservations are appreciated for parties of 6 or more Hours: Sun.-Thu., 11am-9pm; Fri. & Sat., 11am-10pm 1101 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 815-285-1625 | www.galenasteakhouse.com Waterfront Gifts & Antiques 212 W. First Street, Dixon, IL 61021 Two floors of antiques, vintage, primitive, and unique treasures. Shabby chic and repurposed furniture. Open Tues.-Fri., 10am-5pm; Sat., 10am-4pm (815) 288-4500 28 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do Coupons - Clip & Save! ✂ Please visit these fine establishments that support this publication and offer money-saving coupons. ✂ Northwest Territory Historic Center 20% discount off one item in the Gift Shop (excludes artwork) 2 FREE Recreation 2 FREE Recreation Bands with qualifying Bands purchase with qualifying purchase Recreation bands good for unlimited use of all recreation amenities. Not valid holidays & special events. Good 2015 camping season. Recreation bands good for unlimited use ofduring all recreation amenities. Not valid holidays & special events. Good during 2015 camping season. ✂ ✂ Buy 1 drink and get the 2nd drink at 1/2 price (of equal or lesser value) E X P E R I E N C E 10% discount when you shop the Lincoln Way Inn Collection We offer something for everyone, including art, culture, history, entertainment, and bountiful outdoor activities. First-class concierge services await our guests to assist in planning their enjoyment of Lee County and the surrounding attractions. The Inn, exquisitely re-imagined in a historic 1912 three-story house, features beautifully landscaped grounds, five gorgeous guest rooms, welcoming common areas, spa services, sauna, fireplaces, and more. You will be immersed in comfort to relax as you please! Event and meeting space is also available. Uniquely designed items for our guests Please visit our website at lincolnwayinn.com and join our online family, LWI Bee Connected, to receive information about everything that’s happening at Lincoln Way Inn. Your room awaits you! Lisa Marie Lanz & John Ayres | Co-Owners & Innkeepers Lincoln Way Inn Bed & Breafast 409 N. State Street | Franklin Grove, IL 61031 | 708.860.2311 lisa@lincolnwayinn.com ✂ The Ronald Reagan BOYHOOD HOME & VISITOR’S CENTER The Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home and Visitors Center Buy One Get One Free Adult Admission. 815-288-5176 No Limit Visit the home where young Dutch Reagan spent some of his most formative years. www.reaganhome.org visit us on facebook ✂ lincolnwayinn.com Dixon Welcome Center Let our Dixon Ambassadors assist you with planning your visit, pick up one of our dining guides and area brochures and receive a free "Dixon" pen. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun., noon-4pm (seasonally) Open daily April 1 - October 31 Mon.-Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun., 1pm-4pm (closed Easter) Heritage Crossing in Dixon $5.00 adult admission. Ages 12 and under free with paid adult. Free Wi-Fi View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 29 Coupons - Clip & Save! ✂ 2 FREE Recreation Bands with qualifying purchase O’Connell's Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort Recreation bands good for unlimited use of all recreation amenities. Not valid holidays & special events. Good during 2015 camping season. 970 Green Wing Rd., Amboy, IL 815-857-3860 Not valid holidays & special events. Good during 2015 camping season. ✂ Please visit these fine establishments that support this publication and offer money-saving coupons. ✂ Northwest Territory Historic Center 205 W. Fifth St., Dixon, IL 815-288-5508 Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with any other discount promotion. Maybe not be duplicated or redeemed for cash. Valid through April 2016. ✂ E X P E R I E N C E Lincoln Way Inn The Crystal Cork Wine Shoppe 409 N. State St., Franklin Grove 708-860-2311 (Opening June 2015) 219 W. 1st, Dixon, IL 844-THE-CORK Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with any other discount promotion. Maybe not be duplicated or redeemed for cash. Valid through April 2016. Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with any other discount promotion. Maybe not be duplicated or redeemed for cash. Valid through April 2016. We offer something for everyone, including art, culture, history, entertainment, and bountiful outdoor activities. First-class concierge services await our guests to assist in planning their enjoyment of Lee County and the surrounding attractions. The Inn, exquisitely re-imagined in a historic 1912 three-story house, features beautifully landscaped grounds, five gorgeous guest rooms, welcoming common areas, spa services, sauna, fireplaces, and more. You will be immersed in comfort to relax as you please! Event and meeting space is also available. Please visit our website at lincolnwayinn.com and join our online family, LWI Bee Connected, to receive information about everything that’s happening at Lincoln Way Inn. Your room awaits you! Lisa Marie Lanz & John Ayres | Co-Owners & Innkeepers Lincoln Way Inn Bed & Breafast 409 N. State Street | Franklin Grove, IL 61031 | 708.860.2311 lisa@lincolnwayinn.com visit us on facebook lincolnwayinn.com ✂ ✂ The Ronald Reagan BOYHOOD HOME & VISITOR’S CENTER 816 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon, IL Dixon Welcome Center 83 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 815-284-3496 Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home & Visitors Center 815-288-5176 Visit the home where young Dutch Reagan spent some of his most formative years. 815-288-5176 Not valid with any other discount promotion. www.reaganhome.org Maybe not be duplicated or redeemed for cash. Valid through April 2016. Open daily April 1 - October 31 Mon.-Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun., 1pm-4pm (closed Easter) $5.00 adult admission. Ages 12 and under free with paid adult. Free Wi-Fi Bison in Nachusa Grasslands Grazing 30 Visit www.seelee.info for a complete list of fun things to do COMMUNITY INDEX Amboy Amboy Community Information ........................................................ 19 Amboy City Park .............................................................................. 26 Amboy Depot Days ............................................................................ 6 Amboy Depot Days Car Show ........................................................... 6 Amboy Depot Museum .................................................................... 20 Amboy Farmers Market ...................................................................... 4 Amboy Pharmacy ............................................................................ 20 Amboy Art & Antiques ......................................................................... 9 Artison Market & Tourist Center.................................................... 9, 28 Carson Pirie Scott Store Site ........................................................... 21 Cindy Bear’s Cottage ...................................................................... 15 Green River Oaks Camping Resort ................................................. 12 Lee County 4-H Fair .......................................................................... 5 Mendota Hills Campground ............................................................. 12 O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort ................ 12, 29 Pine View Campground ................................................................... 12 Shady Oaks Golf Course ................................................................. 26 White Buffalo Music Festival .............................................................. 9 Ashton Ashton Community Information ....................................................... 19 Ashton’s 150th Anniversary Celebration............................................. 5 Dixon Dixon Community Information ......................................................................19 Comfort Inn of Dixon .....................................................................................14 Crawford House Inn ......................................................................................14 The Crystal Cork......................................................................................10, 29 Culver’s of Dixon ...........................................................................................28 Dixon Farmers Market .....................................................................................4 Dixon Park District ........................................................................................26 Dixon Petunia Festival ....................................................................................5 Dixon Super 8 Motel ......................................................................................14 Dixon Riverfront Heritage Crossing ..............................................................26 Dixon Welcome Center ...........................................................................19, 29 Galena Steakhouse .......................................................................................28 The Good Book .............................................................................................28 Historic Dixon Theatre ..................................................................................22 King Family Homestead ................................................................................15 Lee County Historical & Genealogical Society .............................................21 Lincoln Statue ...............................................................................................24 Loveland Community House & Museum ......................................................21 Lowell Park ....................................................................................................26 The Magnuson Hotel of Dixon ......................................................................14 Meusel’s Dairy Delite .....................................................................................28 The Next Picture Show .................................................................................10 Northwest Territory Historic Center ...................................................21, 29, 32 Old Settler’s Memorial Cabin .........................................................................14 Old Lee County Courthouse ..........................................................................21 Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home .............................................................22, 29 Telegraph Museum .......................................................................................22 Timber Creek Golf Course ......................................................................26, 28 Traditional Wellness ......................................................................................28 Veterans Memorial Park ...............................................................................25 Victory Memorial Arch ...................................................................................25 Waterfront Gifts & Antiques ...........................................................................28 Woodcote .....................................................................................................15 Franklin Grove Franklin Grove Community Information ........................................................19 Autumn on the Prairie .....................................................................................7 Chaplin Creek Village ...................................................................................23 Franklin Creek Cabin .....................................................................................15 Franklin Creek Grist Mill ...............................................................................23 Franklin Creek State Natural Area ................................................................27 Franklin Grove Summer Harvest Festival .......................................................5 H.I. Lincoln Building ......................................................................................23 Lincolnway Café ............................................................................................28 Lincoln Way Inn Bed & Breakfast ............................................................14, 29 Nachusa Grasslands ....................................................................................27 Grand Detour John Deere Historic Site ...............................................................................24 Harmon Green River State Wildlife Area ....................................................................27 Paw Paw Paw Paw Community Information ................................................................19 Paw Paw Farmers Market ...............................................................................4 Paw Paw Labor Day Celebration ....................................................................6 Sterling Emerald Hill Golf Course ...............................................................................26 The Midway Drive-In Theatre .......................................................................24 Steward Steward Community Information ..................................................................19 Steward Depot ..............................................................................................24 Sublette Sublette Community Information ..................................................................19 Burma Shave Replica Signs .........................................................................24 Woodhaven Lakes ........................................................................................13 Advertiser's Index Artisan Market & Tourist Center..................................................28 Crystal Cork Wine Shoppe .........................................................10 Depot Days 25th Anniversary Car Show ......................................7 Dixon Welcome Center...............................................................18 Franklin Creek Grist Mill & Natural Area .....................................23 Galena Steakhouse ....................................................................28 Green River Cyclery ...................................................................27 Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society........................21 Lincoln Way Inn ................................................ Inside Front Cover Meusel's Dairy Delite ..................................................................28 Northwest Territory Historic Center.............................. Back Cover O'Connell's Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort .................12 Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home & Visitors Center .....................22 Village of Paw Paw .....................................................................19 Woodhaven Lakes Association...................................................13 View this publication as an interactive magazine at www.seelee.info 31