Glidden Homestead Invites Teens to Become “History Influencers” at Free Summer Event

The Glidden Homestead will host a unique evening designed especially for teens on Thursday, July 16, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Homestead, 921 W. Lincoln Highway. Teens ages 12–18 are invited to participate in History Influencer Night, a free, hands-on program that combines local history, photography, social media, and storytelling.

Participants will receive an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Glidden Homestead, exploring areas and stories not typically featured during regular visits. Using their own phones or cameras, teens will have the opportunity to create photos, videos, and other content that may be featured on the Glidden Homestead’s social media platforms.

“This program gives teens a chance to engage with local history in a creative and meaningful way,” said Jessi Haish LaRue, Glidden Homestead executive director. “We want young people to see that history isn’t just something found in textbooks—it can be explored, interpreted, and shared through the digital tools they use every day.”

In addition to creating content, attendees will receive a fun swag bag and learn about upcoming teen-focused workshops planned at the Glidden Homestead. Future programs will explore topics such as journalism, oral history collection, photography, and historical research, helping participants build skills while connecting with their community’s past.

The event is free to attend, but advance registration is required.

For more information or to register, contact the Glidden Homestead at jessi@gliddenhomestead.org or GliddenHomestead.org.

Direct registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/u/1/d/1zHHsoS_N4jLnVqyZkuwRUeNgap1Lfjd_ZaHGsVFmncg/edit
About the Glidden Homestead
The Glidden Homestead preserves and shares the story of Joseph F. Glidden, inventor of the most widely used barbed wire in the world, and the family, farm, and community that helped shape DeKalb’s history. Through exhibits, programs, and special events, the museum connects visitors of all ages with the region’s rich agricultural and industrial heritage. For more information contact jessi@gliddenhomestead.org