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Fort Payne Historic Site: A Glimpse into Naperville's Past

Step back in time at Fort Payne Historic Site in Naperville, IL, and discover the stories of the region's early settlers and their fort.

The Fort Payne Historic Site in Naperville, Illinois, offers a window into early 19th-century life. Built in 1832 during the Black Hawk War, the fort provided refuge for settlers. Today, visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the area's early history.

A brief summary to Fort Payne Historic Site

  • 450 S Brainard St, Naperville, Naperville Park District, Illinois, 60540, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
  • Check local schedules for any guided tours or historical reenactments that may be taking place.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the grounds and surrounding park area.
  • Consider visiting the nearby Naper Settlement, a 12-acre outdoor history museum, for a broader view of Naperville's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Naperville Metra Station (on the BNSF Railway Line), the Fort Payne Historic Site is about a 10-minute walk. Head south on Aurora Avenue, then turn left onto S Brainard Street. The site will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Pace Bus Route 715 connects to the area. From the Aurora Transportation Center, take the Pace Bus Route 715 towards Naperville. Get off near the intersection of S Brainard St and W 5th Ave. Head south on S Brainard St for about 0.3 miles to reach the site. Single ride fares are around $1.75.

  • Driving

    The Fort Payne Historic Site is located at 450 S Brainard St, Naperville, IL 60540. From Interstate 88, take the exit toward IL-59/Springbrook Trail. Merge onto IL-59 and continue south. Turn left onto 75th St, then right onto S Brainard St. The site will be on your left. Free parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Fort Payne Historic Site

Nestled in Naperville, Illinois, the Fort Payne Historic Site marks a significant chapter in the region's early history. Constructed in 1832, the fort was a response to the Black Hawk War, offering protection to settlers in the area. Captain Morgan L. Payne and his company of forty-five men were stationed here to protect the settlers from roaming Sauk Indians during the Black Hawk War. Fort Payne was a stockade-type fortification, roughly 100 feet square, enclosed by wooden pickets set firmly in the ground. Diagonal corners featured two blockhouses with openings that provided a view of the surrounding prairies. Although no battles occurred here, the fort played a vital role in reassuring the community during a time of uncertainty. General Winfield Scott negotiated a treaty with the Sauks at Rock Island, which ended the Black Hawk War. Today, the Fort Payne Historic Site provides visitors with a serene and educational experience. While the original fort is no longer standing, the site serves as a reminder of the challenges and resilience of the early settlers. Visitors can walk the grounds, read informational plaques, and imagine life in the 1830s. The site's location near other Naperville attractions makes it easy to combine a visit with other activities.

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