19th Century Christmas at the Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House -- December 7.
Sunday, December, noon – 5 p.m.
Butterworth Center, 1105 Eighth Street, and Deere-Wiman House, 817 11th Avenue, Moline IL
In the eagerly awaited return of a seasonal Quad Cities tradition, visitors can experience the wonders of a classic Victorian holiday season in Moline's unique Deere-family homes through 19th Century Christmas, the Butterworth Center's and Deere-Wiman House's annually beloved event boasting litany of yuletide treats including live music performances, interactive tours, make-and-take activities, refreshments, and, of course, a special visit by Santa Claus on December 7.
Each year during the 19th Century Christmas event, hundreds of visitors step back in time to experience the sights and sounds of an 1800s Christmas. Activities are located at Butterworth Education Center, Deere-Wiman House, and Deere-Wiman Carriage House, and the afternoon's yuletide treats include beautiful decorations throughout both Deere-Wiman House and Butterworth Center, as well as children's crafts and musical performances at both venues. In addition to film screenings that provide information on the locales, the Butterworth Center will host self-guided tours of the former garage (built in 1910 and remodeled in 2009), the original squash court, and servants’ quarters, contrasted with the modern entry, meeting space, and projection room. The Deere-Wiman House will provide self-guided tours of the original home, while the edifice's Carriage House will treat guests to hot chocolate, hot spiced cider, and cookies.
History, education, and community service come together at Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House in Moline. These historic houses, once belonging to John Deere’s descendants, now serve as community centers for lots of free, family-appropriate events, including community-group meetings, concerts featuring a variety of musical genres, lectures by local and national experts, tours that highlight regional and Deere family history, day camps and educational programs for students, and community events that attract thousands each year. All events are funded by the William Butterworth Foundation, manager of both Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House in Moline.
19th Century Christmas begins at noon and ends at 5 p.m. on December 7, admission is free, and more information on the return of this seasonal treat is available by calling (309)743-2700 and visiting ButterworthCenter.com.
