Community Corner
Celebrate Route 66's Centennial With Kickin' It Program At Joliet Iron Works
See live blacksmith demonstrations, historic photos and learn the stories of the people who lived, worked and traveled this iconic corridor.
Celebrate Route 66's centennial by with a trip to a hidden giant of America’s industrial past.
The Forest Preserve District of Will County will host a Kickin’ It at the Iron Works program from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, July 17, at the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site.
Visitors are invited to explore the site's impressive stone foundations on a self-guided tour and experience the legacy that helped shape the nation.
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Forest Preserve staff will be stationed along the route to share stories about the people who worked there and the role the site played in the region’s industrial past.
The program also includes live blacksmithing demonstrations, where raw metal is transformed into everyday tools. Historic photos will be on display at the preserve shelter.
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Once rivaling the steel powerhouse of Pittsburgh, Joliet Iron Works stood at the forefront of industry when Route 66 was first paved a century ago. The site features impressive stone foundations and a 1-mile paved walkway through the remnants of the former iron works.
The event is free and open to all ages. No registration is required. Parking is limited, so walking, biking or carpooling is encouraged.
Stay for a moment or for the entire time — this event invites you to explore at your own pace.
Joliet Iron Works Historic Site is located on Columbia Street, east of Route 53/Scott Street, in Joliet. For more information on Forest Preserve programs, Visit ReconnectWithNature.org.
