
Brown Bag Lunch: The Precipice of Freedom: The Roles of DeKalb and Kane County during the Anti-Slavery Movement
Eric Krupa will share original historical research that uncovers the untold stories of how DeKalb and Kane counties contributed to the broader Midwest abolitionist movement. The presentation will explore the politics, strategies, and people who courageously fought for the freedom of enslaved individuals, including new insights into the Underground Railroad in our region.

Arts in Action: Community Storytelling Showcase with Dr. Ada Cheng
Building upon the stories and experiences that were shared during the March 13 Storytelling Workshop with Dr. Ada Cheng, several individuals who participated in the workshop were invited to work with Dr. Cheng to fine tune their stories and share with the public during this event.

Evening at Ellcourt
Join us for a good old fashioned night of jazz and revelry at Ellcourt, the Tudor-Revival home on the Ellwood House campus. Guests will have the chance to experience 1920’s parlor games, explore the gardens, enjoy handcrafted cocktails, and listen to live music. All events will take place within the Ellcourt home and the surrounding gardens.

STEM Café—Is That a Queen Anne? Exploring the Architectural Styles of American Homes
Architecture is the intersection of art and science. This can be seen in the homes we live in and adore. Learn more at this special STEM Café dedicated to American architecture at the historic Ellcourt House – a 1900 Tudor revival style mansion on the grounds of DeKalb’s Ellwood House.

Arts in Action: Storytelling Workshop
By sharing personal experiences, individuals can not only learn about themselves, but teach others about histories that go unsaid. Speaking the truth is a powerful act of self-expression that fosters connection, understanding, and empowerment. By sharing stories, spaces can be opened for diverse and meaningful dialogue that can shape and change the way people perceive the world

Dessert and Dialogue
The second in a series of discussions, “Dessert and Dialogue” will be an evening of community-building, storytelling, and racial healing. This event builds upon the work started by the Arts in Action project, a collaboration between the DeKalb County History Center and Ellwood House.