Kathryn Bloch
Contributing Writer
When driving to or from campus, have you ever noticed the beautiful old buildings, surrounded by crisp fall foliage? If so, have you ever wondered what goes on behind those fences?
Just outside of the reaches of the College lies one of Naperville’s richest historical sites: Naper Settlement. Established in 1969, the Settlement has since served Naperville, and the surrounding area, in educating the community and nearby towns on life in the early 19th century. Described as a “living history museum,” patrons are able to explore over thirty different buildings to gain an understanding of how Naperville as a community functioned differently.
In addition to still serving a clear purpose to lend a historical understanding to guests, Naper Settlement is host to a variety of seasonal activities.
For instance, Oktoberfest and All Hollow’s Eve are presented at the Settlement in autumn bring excitement to the season. Because it is home to an endless amount of events, there is truly something for everyone who visits this historical attraction.
For those who want to have spooky Halloween fun, but don’t think that they can handle a haunted house, there are plenty of options. On Oct. 11th, the Settlement will present a first person cemetery walk, entitled “Stories in Stone.” These walking tours will give guests a chance to not only explore Naperville, but also to meet with citizens from Naperville’s past.
If you think that you can handle something a bit creepier, then All Hollow’s Eve may be a better fit. All Hollow’s Eve goes on over two nights, Oct.17th through the 18th, and is the most horror themed event that happens during this season at the Settlement. Though All Hollow’s Eve is something that Naper Settlement hosts every year, unlike the cemetery walk and other events, this year lends it self to be the most terrifying yet. Mixing history, literature and modern horror, this year’s All Hollow’s Eve will feature exhibits such as a Victorian-themed insane asylum, Frankenstein’s laboratory, a simulated torture dungeon and a trip down to the underworld.
The last Halloween themed event for the season is set to take place Oct. 19th, and it is a literary experience centered around the one and only Edgar Allen Poe. The night, titled “History Speaks: Edgar Allen Poe-To Tell A Tale,” will take guests through Poe’s life, and will include retellings of his most popular stories: “The Raven” and “The Tell-Tale Heart.”
Looking at it from the outside, it may seem like Naper Settlement doesn’t have much to offer college students in terms of fun weekend events. However, the fall season boasts some great times to be had by people of all ages.
