Historic Wagner Farm represents a historic jewel of the North Shore and the site of the highly-popular Glenview Farmers Market and Historic Wagner Farm Heritage Center. An educational destination for scout troops, schools, daily visits, and birthday parties, the staff at the Wagner Farm continues to design and incorporate fascinating programs and events to provide a taste of local farm life from the past and the important role that farming plays in today’s culture.
This 18.6 historic acre farm is the last remnant of the farm owned by members of the Wagner family since their arrival from Trier, Germany in the 1850s. Wagner Farm was owned by the family until the last surviving member Rose Wagner died in 1997.
Following Rose’s death, a group of local citizens approached the Glenview Park District and asked its leaders to buy and preserve the property. It was their wish for the farm to be maintained as an historic working farm for the education and enjoyment of the community. With citizen support, the park district purchased the farm in 2000.
Serving over 140,000 annual visitors, Wagner Farm has become a prosperous land that gives back to the community through education and it’s plentiful supply of produce.
The park district, assisted by representatives from the community, embarked on a master planning process to set guidelines regarding the future uses and development of the farm. Guided by this master plan, the park district has repaired and restored the barn and farmhouse, added chickens and pigs to the farm’s livestock, and introduced a number of programs and events to allow the public to experience the farm. Aided by the energetic fundraising assistance of the Friends of Wagner Farm, the park district constructed and opened the Historic Wagner Farm Heritage Center Museum in 2006.
Today, Historic Wagner Farm represents one of the historic and educational jewels of the North Shore community. In 2007, Historic Wagner Farm became home to the Glenview Farmer’s Market. The staff at Historic Wagner Farm continues to design and incorporate fascinating new programs and events to provide visitors with a taste of farm life from the past and educate them on the important role farming plays in all our lives today.
Due to the historic nature of Wagner Farm as well as active farming operations, the Glenview Park District has adopted specific policies governing still and video photography. Filming and photography permits are now required for any commercial filming and photography including family portraits, wedding photography, any film that will be used in the production of any marketing materials, public service announcements, documentaries, training films, commercials, television films, or series, student films, feature films, or commercial art. Permit fees for professional portraits and candids is $50 per hour plus a refundable security deposit. For more rates, information, and to obtain the required permit, contact Andrea.Just@glenviewparks.org or call 224-521-2204.