Joseph Farwell Glidden's invention of one of the most widely-used types of barbed wire in 1873 helped change the history of the American West and had far-reaching impact throughout the world. His Homestead in DeKalb, IL, is being preserved and restored by a not-for-profit organization founded in 1995. Both the home and the barn are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We welcome your visit and encourage your membership!
Mission Statement
The Joseph F. Glidden Homestead and Historical Center is dedicated to telling an American story of migration, innovation and philanthropy at the site where Joseph F. Glidden invented "The Winner" barbed wire. The mission is to restore and preserve the site; to collect and preserve relevant materials relating to the Glidden family, the invention of barbed wire and its broader impact on the nation's development; and to educate the public by establishing a museum and innovation center at the site. -adopted June 11, 2007
Hours
Sundays noon-4 p.m.
Or by appointment: call 815-756-7904 or email jessi@gliddenhomestead.org
Due to volunteer availability, please plan to schedule private/by appointment tours at least two weeks in advance.
Admission
Adults $5
Children under 14 years and Homestead members are free
Museum Etiquette
Feel free to take pictures.
Food and drink are allowed only in the Welcome Center.
Please resist touching the artifacts or furniture.
Tours
Tours for adult, school, or scout groups can be scheduled year-round. $5 per person.
Directions
Located on Route 38, Lincoln Highway, in DeKalb, Illinois, 60 miles west of Chicago. Via I-88, take the Glidden Road exit north to Lincoln Highway, turn east, one block. Glidden Homestead and Glidden Campus Florist share a driveway entrance, then veer to the left in the parking lot.
GPS coordinates: N41°55.897' W088°46.231'
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