THE GROVE NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide a meaningful leisure experience to people who visit The Grove, to restore and preserve the physical aspects of The Grove including the grounds and the historic structures with the constant recognition of National Landmark status and Illinois Nature Preserve status, and to continue and interpret the lifestyle and attitudes of the Kennicott family in such areas as horticulture, literature, education, natural science studies and so forth.

History of The Grove

The Grove National Historic Landmark is 143 acres of ecologically diverse prairie grove land preserved and maintained by the Glenview Park District. The Grove was the home of visionary horticulturist and educator, Dr. John Kennicott, who brought his family from New Orleans to settle on this land in 1836. It was here that Dr. John’s son, Robert Kennicott, developed his love of nature that led to such accomplishments as exhibiting his plant and animal specimen collections at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., founding the Chicago Academy of Sciences, and exploring Russian America that led to the purchase of Alaska. Because of its rich history, The Grove was designated a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 1976. It is on the National Registry of Historic Places. The Grove is a partner with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Chicago Wilderness.

The Grove includes a wonderful variety of facilities and programs including special events, school groups, scouts, Hay Rides, Holiday Arts and Craft Faire, Restoration Work Days, Vintage Market and the Redfield Rental Estate Facility,