Summer 2026 Play Book

21 HISTORY

#playoswegoland

Creating Patriotic Ribbon Wreaths Celebrate the spirit of the season with a hands-on workshop creating your own patriotic ribbon wreath! Participants will be guided step-by-step through the process of designing and assembling a festive red, white, and blue decoration perfect for your home. All skill levels are welcome, and materials will be provided. Whether you’re crafting for a holiday or simply showing your pride, this class offers a fun and creative way to get inspired. (JN) All Ages ● Little White School Museum 33625 Jun 25 Thu 10:00am-12:00pm $20(R)/$25(N) Terri Jacobs Sponge Boats Make and Take Set sail for creativity in this fun, hands-on program just for kids! Participants will design and build their own sponge boats with sails, then test them out to see how well they float and capture the wind. This engaging make-and-take activity encourages creativity, problem-solving, and a bit of experimentation. Perfect for young learners, each child will leave with their very own boat and a splash of new knowledge! (JN) All Ages ● Little White School Museum 33626 Jul 18 Sat 10:00am-12:00pm $10(R)/$12(N) Set in Stone: Cemetery Symbols and Iconography Lecture Uncover the hidden meanings carved in stone in this fascinating lecture on cemetery iconography and symbolism. Explore the history and significance behind common gravestone motifs, from angels and urns to willow trees and clasped hands, and learn what they reveal about past beliefs, values, and cultural traditions. Join Museum Coordinator Joe Noce as we journey for a deeper understanding of how communities memorialize the deceased and expressed grief, remembrance, and hope through art and symbolism. (JN) All Ages ● Little White School Museum 33621 Jul 19 Sun 1:00-2:00pm $5(R)/$7(N)

Fox River History Hike Today, Oswego knows the Fox River as a premier visual and recreational source. The banks of the Fox River offer hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventures. But the Fox River has been more than just a recreation site since settlers first arrived. We invite you on a guided hike along the storied trail along the Fox River to explore its rich history. The hike will be approximately 6.2 miles. Please wear proper footwear and clothing for extended trail hiking. Participants will meet at the small picnic shelter in Hudson Crossing Park. (JN) Age: 15 and up ● Hudson Crossing Park 33627 Jul 25 Sat 10:00am-1:00pm $5(R)/$7(N) Oswego History Trivia Night Test your knowledge and have some fun at this engaging local history–themed trivia night. Participants will compete individually as they answer questions covering the rich history, people, and places of Oswego and the surrounding area. From local landmarks to broader historical themes, trivia rounds will challenge and entertain history enthusiasts of all levels. Come ready to think fast, learn something new, and enjoy a lively evening celebrating the past! Light refreshments will be provided. (JN) Age: 12 and up ● Little White School Museum 33628 Aug 14 Fri 7:00-9:00pm $5(R)/$7(N) Oswego in Uncertain Times Following the Civil War Lecture Explore a pivotal chapter in local history through a lecture examining Oswego’s history in the years following the Civil War. Discover how residents of Oswego navigated historical events, population decline, and national uncertainty during Reconstruction and beyond. Through stories of everyday life, growth, and challenge, join Museum Coordinator Joe Noce as we shed light on how a small town adapted to become the place we know today. (JN) All Ages ● Little White School Museum 33622 Aug 15 Sat 12:00-1:00pm Free

Saw Wee Kee History Hike Today, Oswego knows Saw Wee Kee as one of its premier parks. Situated along the Fox River, it offers hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventures. But Saw Wee Kee Park and the surrounding area have been more than just a recreation site since settlers first arrived. The Oswegoland Park District invites you on a guided hike along the storied trails of Saw Wee Kee to explore its rich history. This afternoon of outdoor learning will follow the Blue Trail, covering approximately 5.5 miles. Please wear proper footwear and clothing for extended trail hiking. Participants will meet at the P2 Parking Lot in Saw Wee Kee Park. (JN) Age: 15 and up ● Saw Wee Kee Park 33617 Aug 22 Sat 10:00am-1:00pm $5(R)/$7(N) Oswego History Tour – Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery Join us for a guided walking tour of the historic Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, situated along the famed Lincoln Highway. Participants will explore the grounds while learning about the local history reflected in the cemetery’s monuments and landscape. This program offers insight into the stories preserved within the cemetery and the broader history of the surrounding community. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this outdoor experience. Participants will meet at the Little White School Museum. Presented by the Oswegoland Heritage Association in partnership with the Oswegoland Park District. (JN) Age: 12 and up ● Little White School Museum 33629 Aug 29 Sat 12:00-1:00pm $5(R)/(N)

Resident Reg: May 5 Registration Reminders: page 3