Macktown Living History

Welcome to Macktown, a place where history comes to life.

Who we are…

An Introduction to Macktown Living History:

The buildings at Macktown Living History include the 1846 Whitman's Trading Post, the 1839 Stephen Mack residence, and the rebuilt Stevens shop, which housed the first schoolhouse in Winnebago County, plus the modern Macktown Living History Education Center. Macktown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It contains remnants of historic and prehistoric cultures dating back thousands of years. Your support is critical to maintaining this culturally significant site. 

The buildings are open to the public during our monthly special events and open to visitors, schools, and groups at other times by appointment. The grounds are open to enjoy during regular Macktown Forest Preserve hours.