In this Issue:

- Special presentation "Aurora on the Edge of Eden: History & Archaeology of French Prairie" by David Brauner at the Annual Meeting, Sat. Feb. 24th.

- Contribute to our next exhibit, Journey Stories opening Feb. 24th.

- Coming Soon: Antique Spinning Wheel Showcase! Mar. 9-10

- Now Hiring: Stauffer-Will Farm Program Coordinator

- Volunteer Opportunities: Make a difference in a young persons life, volunteer at the Stauffer-Will Farm! Help revitalize the Emma Wakefield Herb Garden.

- Learn about the Stauffer-Will Stove TBD in March

- There's still time to contribute to the 2023 Annual Appeal

Annual Membership Meeting & Special Guest Presentation "Aurora on the Edge of Eden: History & Archaeology of French Prairie" by David Brauner

Saturday, February 24th at 11:00AM at the Aurora Mills Architectural Salvage Annex.

Whether you're a long-time member of the Society or interested in joining for the first time, the Annual Meeting promises to be a fun and informative gathering with complimentary wine and small bites. Come mingle with us and experience the joy of connecting with others who share your passion for history and preservation!

Meeting will include an amendment to the bylaws moving future annual meetings from "the month of February" to "the first quarter of the calendar year".

To RSVP or for more information, visit our event page, email [email protected], or call 503-678-5754.

Click to become a member today!

Share your Journey Story in our Coming Exhibit February 24th - June 22nd

America and its history is a patchwork of many tales which have been woven over time from the voyages of people—both voluntary and involuntary—who traveled from city-to-city, state-to-state and around the world to find new opportunities. Whether by air, land or sea, travel has played a crucial part in our economic and cultural identities. The Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) presents “Journey Stories,” on how movement has defined America.

Share Your Journey Story

Objects, images, and your stories will complement this poster exhibit to tell the Aurora area Journey Stories. Do you have a Journey Story of your own, your family or an object (previously donated or to loan) that you would like to share? Please contact the museum via email [email protected], or call 503-678-5754.

Objects, stories, and images will be changed out throughout the exhibit.

Volunteer Opportunities Contact Siobhan for more Information 503-678-5754 or [email protected]

Get Your Hands Dirty and Help Prepare the Emma Wakefield Herb Garden to Turn 50!

Nestled in the museum courtyard, this once bright spot is primed for a rejuvenation. Become a part of our volunteer herb garden crew and breathe new life into this historical gem. Make some new friends as you help our garden thrive and flourish!

From mint to chamomile, our garden will delight the senses and honor the legacy of Dr. Wilhelm Keil, the colony's herbalist founder.

Bring History to Life in our Field Trip Program

Join our dedicated Stauffer-Will Farm volunteers and experience the joy of watching kids learn about the past through hands-on activities. No experience required and training is provided.

Coming in March: Cooking with the Stauffer-Will Farm Stove

Contact Siobhan to RSVP for date and time. All interested parties are welcome. In this session you will learn about the stove, its uses, and how to properly clean and maintain a fire.

The modern convenience of its day, these vintage stoves acted as water heater, furnace, stove top, oven, toaster, and more. Today the Stauffer-Will Farm stove dutifully bakes more than 3,000 rolls over the coarse of the 12-week field trip program.

2023 Annual Appeal

Thank you to our Donors, Members, Volunteers, Visitors, and Supporters

As we look back on 2023, we are reflecting on the journey we’ve shared at the Aurora Colony Historical Society. Your support has been the backbone of our endeavor and we are so grateful for your commitment to preserving our unique piece of local history.

During the past year we made significant strides in restoring the Stauffer-Will Farm program to its pre-pandemic strength. Thanks to you we were able to welcome 2,284 students and 662 teachers and chaperones to the farm, where our volunteers and staff provided them with a very special, hands-on, immersive experience. We consistently hear from returning teachers that the Stauffer-Will Farm program is their top field trip priority due to its impact on students. Our 2024 program is filling fast!

Your steadfast generosity allows us to preserve our history and to share the lessons of the Aurora Colony with others. Together, we can continue to cultivate the seeds of knowledge for future generations.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community and for helping us continue to tell the fascinating story of the Aurora Colony. 

Diane Kocher Downs,

President, Board of Directors

Aurora Colony Historical Society

Donate here.