The DeKalb County History Center was one of five organizations selected to participate in a Smithsonian project that examines how culture, ethnicity, class, landscape and tradition influence the foods and flavors enjoyed in DeKalb County and across the nation. Receiving an Award of Excellence from the Illinois Association of Museums, this exhibit will close on Saturday, April 4.

The framework for the exhibition was provided by the Smithsonian and fleshed out by the History Center and its history partners using local historical images, art and artifacts, video clips and oral histories. The resulting exhibition reflected DeKalb County’s strong history and culture.

The display explores how recipes, menus, ceremonies, and etiquette are shaped by our country’s rich Native and immigrant experience, the history of innovations of food preparation technology, and the ever-changing availability of ingredients. It is a celebration of local identities and shared pride of place through food from cheesesteaks in Philadelphia to Georgia peaches and much more.

“The DeKalb County History Center was honored to be part of this project. As we regularly tell our visitors, all history is local history. This exhibit shares DeKalb County’s history as it compares to the national experience.  For example, visitors enjoyed the hands-on cookbook collection; the memories from local festivals including Corn Fest, Pumpkin Fest, and Greek Fest; as well as reminiscing about local restaurants that provided unique cultural food experiences,” explained Michelle Donahoe, DeKalb County History Center’s Executive Director.

She continued, “We also were thrilled to work with over 15 community partners to share more food related stories throughout the county.”

The next exhibit, “We the People of DeKalb County,” connected to the 250th Anniversary of the United States will open on Saturday, May 30, as part of the Campus Expansion Grand Opening Celebration, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm. While the grand opening festivities are free, museum admission is $5 for adults, but members and kids under the age of 14 are free.

The DeKalb County History Center is located at 1730 N. Main Street. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday from 12:00 to 3:00 pm. For more information, please call 815-895-5762 or visit dekalbcountyhistory.org.