NIU STEAM Cafe: Innovation & Local History at Glidden Homestead
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Barbed wire profoundly changed the United States, and one of the most important innovations in this revolutionary technology happened right here in DeKalb. Joseph F. Glidden was granted a patent on Nov 24, 1874, for "The Winner," which became one of the most widely used types of barbed wire in the nation.
At this STEAM Café, hear the story of the Glidden Homestead. Learn why Joseph Glidden needed barbed wire, how he created this new version and why it was so transformative. Then, tour the historic barn and see the latest updates in its restoration progress. Don’t miss this chance to dig into DeKalb’s historical roots in agricultural innovation!
About the Speaker
Jessi Haish LaRue is the Executive Director of the JF Glidden Homestead & Historical Center in DeKalb, home to two National Register of Historic Places buildings. Leading the organization since 2022, she brings a creative, forward-looking approach to the birthplace of “The Winner” barbed wire. An eighth-generation DeKalb County resident and descendant of barbed wire baron Jacob Haish, Jessi’s connection to local history is both deeply personal and future-focused.
Barbed wire profoundly changed the United States, and one of the most important innovations in this revolutionary technology happened right here in DeKalb. Joseph F. Glidden was granted a patent on Nov 24, 1874, for "The Winner," which became one of the most widely used types of barbed wire in the nation.
At this STEAM Café, hear the story of the Glidden Homestead. Learn why Joseph Glidden needed barbed wire, how he created this new version and why it was so transformative. Then, tour the historic barn and see the latest updates in its restoration progress. Don’t miss this chance to dig into DeKalb’s historical roots in agricultural innovation!
About the Speaker
Jessi Haish LaRue is the Executive Director of the JF Glidden Homestead & Historical Center in DeKalb, home to two National Register of Historic Places buildings. Leading the organization since 2022, she brings a creative, forward-looking approach to the birthplace of “The Winner” barbed wire. An eighth-generation DeKalb County resident and descendant of barbed wire baron Jacob Haish, Jessi’s connection to local history is both deeply personal and future-focused.
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Where is it happening?
921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, United States, Illinois 60115
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherJ.F. Glidden Homestead
