Colonel Palmer House

Our History...

Gustavus A. Palmer and his wife Henrietta arrived in McHenry County from Nunda, New York by covered wagon circa 1841. As early pioneers to the area they purchased land from the Federal Government to start their homestead. The Colonel, as he was called by his neighbors, would eventually acquire over 300 acres of property. As a successful farmer he hired Andrew Jackson Simons, a local architect, to build this Greek Revival and Federalist style brick home in 1858. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the home and grounds provide the perfect setting for historic presentations.

The building is now open to the public for tours, special events, and research of local history. The home contains the office of the Crystal Lake Historical Society who maintains records of Crystal Lake history and collections of local artifacts.

A Unique Partnership

The Colonel Palmer House is operated and maintained by the Crystal Lake Park District and leased from the City of Crystal Lake. The Park District and Crystal Lake Historical Society partner to bring our area's history to the community. Our thanks to the many dedicated interpreters, re-enactors, hobbyists and staff who volunteer their time and knowledge to make our programs successful.

Catered Teas

Looking for something new for your special occasion? The Colonel Palmer House is the perfect setting for catered luncheons, bridal and baby showers, business meetings or group tours. 

Res: $50/hr

Non-Res: $70/hr

Birthday Parties

Be the talk of the town with this unique birthday party experience! All parties include 2 hours, a tea and historical presentation with staff dressed in 1800s costumes.

Fee: $200 (tea only) $230 (petite snack included) Up to 15 participants

Tea for Tots

(Ages 2-5)

After an enchanting storybook tea time tale, we'll make a unique Victorian craft and learn the beginning stages of etiquette through a series of fun historic games and dances. If the weather permits, we will have a picnic.

Folklore Fables

(Ages 6+)

Legends speak of mythical creatures that have existed for thousands of years. Unveil the history behind some of our favorite tales and their popularity during the Victorian era. Through the art of storytelling and games, you'll have everything you need to craft a unique rendition of your favorite fantasy world.

Palmer's Parlor Puzzles

(Ages 6+)

Strategy, critical thinking, and problem solving are just a few of the skills needed when you enter a Victorian puzzle. Through a series of historical games and theatrical dialogue of your favorite characters, explore what it takes to solve a mystery at the Colonel Palmer House.

Early Inventions

(Ages 6+)

Learn the history behind some of the most renowned inventions of all time. As you discover what life was like during the Industrial Revolution, design a model of your favorite creation.

The Green Kingdom

(Ages 6+)

There is said to be a language behind the origin of flowers and stories about their native land. Learn the history behind popular blooms and how they were used during the Victorian era. From the most elegant gardens to natural habitats, find out how to craft a keepsake of your favorite plants.

A Collection of Curiosities

(Ages 6+)

Discover the history behind some of the most extraordinary collections of all time. While you show and tell some of your favorite treasures, receive an exclusive tour of rare archives prevalent to the Victorian era.

Field Trips

Enhance your educational curriculum when you book a historic field trip with a Colonel Palmer House historian. 

NEW TOPICS:

• Welcome to Crystal Lake
• Pioneering Survival Series
• Historic Culinary
• The American Bison
• Indigenous America

Call to obtain details on our unique topics tailored to a variety of school age groups. Contact Sarah Taylor or call 815.477.5873.

Scout Programs

The Crystal Lake Park District proudly offers a variety of historic programs to Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts merit badges.  Length of programs are between 1-1.5 hours.

Base Fee: $40 for up to 5 scouts

Additional Scouts: $8 each

Volunteers

Volunteer opportunities at the Colonel Palmer House are ongoing, both inside the house and on the grounds. Contact Sarah Taylor or call 815.477.5873 for more information.