The community is invited to step back in time and celebrate local history and agriculture at Annie Glidden’s 160th Birthday Party on Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Annie’s Woods, 335 Miller Avenue, DeKalb. This free, family-friendly event will feature games, giveaways, historical activities, and more.

Presented by the DeKalb County Farm Bureau and hosted by the J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center, the celebration highlights the life and legacy of Annie Laurie Glidden—a pioneering farmer, philanthropist, and namesake of Annie Glidden Road.

Event highlights include:

• Live historical portrayal of Annie Glidden by family descendant Cheryl Johnson, who will mingle with guests throughout the event and give a presentation at 12:30 p.m.
• “Annie’s Story Time” for families at 1 p.m. presented by the DeKalb Public Library
• Interactive farm-themed activities with the DeKalb County Farm Bureau, including a “Name that Crop” game
• Coloring station featuring a custom Annie Glidden coloring page by local artist Carol Ann Boecker of Printed Pooch
• Opportunities to learn Whist, Annie’s favorite card game
• Explore the park to see the DeKalb Park District’s signage in honor of Annie

Born on July 25, 1865, on a farm west of what is now Annie Glidden Road, Annie studied agriculture at Cornell University and became an award-winning grower of corn, soybeans, alfalfa, raspberries, and asparagus. She was also a key figure in founding the Library Whist Club, which raised funds to buy books for the then-new DeKalb Public Library.

Annie Glidden was a woman ahead of her time—an agricultural innovator, community leader, and generous spirit who made a lasting impact on DeKalb. Her story offers a fascinating glimpse into the roots of our community and the powerful role women played in shaping it. This celebration is a chance to connect with that legacy in a fun, interactive way.

Guests can enjoy birthday cookies, art, hands-on learning, and the chance to engage with Annie’s remarkable story in a fun, family atmosphere.

This event is free and open to the public. No registration is required.

To learn more about Annie Glidden or the Glidden Homestead, visit GliddenHomestead.org, call 815-756-7904, or email jessi@gliddenhomestead.org.