This year marks the 150th anniversary of Joseph F. Glidden’s “The Winner” patent, forever changing the American landscape and earning Glidden the title “The Father of Barbed Wire” and DeKalb the Barb City.

The “Barbed Wire Barons Bus Tour” kicks off the weekend on Friday, September 27. This exclusive tour delves into DeKalb’s rich barbed wire history, visiting significant locations and former factories. Highlights include a rare opportunity to explore the interiors of Industrial Artifacts and Sonoco Alloyd, once bustling barbed wire production sites.

Tickets for the bus tour are $74 and include a commemorative booklet. Organized by historian Stephen J. Bigolin and Haish family descendant Jeff J. Marshall, this tour offers a unique glimpse into DeKalb’s barbed wire legacy. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today at www.barbedwireweekend.com or by calling the Glidden Homestead at 815-756-7904.

From 9 am to 4 pm on September 28 and 29, the Glidden Homestead, in partnership with the Antique Barbed Wire Society, will transform Northern Illinois University’s Altgeld Hall into a haven for barbed wire enthusiasts and those looking to explore the hobby and the historic ballroom. The event will feature an extensive barbed wire exposition showcasing historical collections, demonstrations, and the opportunity to mingle with collectors and history enthusiasts. Barbed wire collectors from 9 states will share their collections and offer swap/sell opportunities. Eight local museums will share historical information and have hands-on demonstrations. There will be activities for children and special 150th anniversary merchandise available for purchase. Admission is $5 per adult, children free. Parking is free on campus both days.

The show is held at Altgeld Hall, DeKalb’s “castle,” part of Glidden’s farmland donation for the college in the 1890s, and near the site of the fairgrounds where Glidden, Isaac Ellwood and Jacob Haish saw a primitive fencing display by Henry Rose of Waterman and were inspired to improve upon it and manufacture barbed wire fencing. The barbed wire expo is generously sponsored by Meta.

Tour the historic Glidden Homestead, 921 W. Lincoln Highway, from 10 am to 2 pm both September 28 and 29. See the  interior of the house and barn where Glidden initially invented and manufactured “The Winner” barbed wire. Both buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. The onsite Phineas Vaughan Blacksmith Shop will also be open for demonstrations both days, and the Glidden gift shop will be open. Admission is $5 per adult, children free.

Jubilee Artisans is adding a dash of creativity to the festivities with a unique public art project! Artists will be transforming downtown windows along Lincoln Highway, from 1st to 4th Street, with colorful barbed wire designs. This temporary artwork serves as a symbol of community spirit, drawing locals and visitors alike to experience DeKalb’s rich history and vibrant downtown scene.

This unique dinner event will be held Saturday, Sept. 28 from 5-8 pm at the historic Glidden Homestead.

The event features a catered buffet, meet & greet with Glidden family, tours of the historic house and barn, music by Bend in the Road, raffle items, games and more — all with the unique Glidden Homestead as a beautiful and unforgettable backdrop! Limited tickets available, $50 per person. Register at www.barbedwireweekend.com or by calling 815-756-7904.

All proceeds from Barbed Wire Weekend events will assist with preservation and operations of the historic J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center, a non-profit museum dedicated to sharing the stories of Glidden, DeKalb, and barbed wire. For more information, visit www.barbedwireweekend.com or contact Jessi Haish LaRue at the Glidden Homestead, jessi@gliddenhomestead.org or 815-756-7904. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate DeKalb’s barbed wire heritage!