Field Trips 

Is your class interested in learning about pioneer life in the 1800s? If so we have a trip for you! Travel back to 1847 and learn about the Franklin Creek Grist Mill renovation and the original Lahman Mill. Pioneers settled around the Franklin Creek for its fresh spring water and shortly after Joeseph Emmert and his son-in-law, Christian Lahman, built the original mill. Christian Lahman eventually bought the mill from his father-in-law. The mill at Franklin Creek was the largest in Lee County and a center of pioneer social life. Today the Franklin Creek Grist Mill is the only fully water-powered gristmill in the state. The gristmill is operational from April until November. If your class is interested in taking a tour of the gristmill please call us at 815.456.2718. This trip is ideal for 3rd-5th grade students and Scout groups. ​

The Grist Mill is also home to a bison exhibit, a woodlands display that includes 43 varieties of wood paneling and a water exhibit that looks at the different water and geological structures surrounding the Franklin Creek. If you would like to include a short outdoor education lesson in your tour that can be arranged as well.​

If you would like to donate photos from the trip, please fill out and return the correct photo release form below.
Photo Donation Release
Photo Model Release

Field Trip cost is $5/student with teachers, chaperones, and bus drivers admitted for free. One adult is required for every 15 students. If you would like to include other programming, the cost is subject to change depending on class size.  Butterfly releases, and custom scavenger hunts can also be added to field trips. ​The gift shop will also be available to students during the trip. Bag lunches are welcome at the mill.