Every Spring, Three Sisters Park offers 5th through 7th-grade students a hands-on opportunity to learn about the agricultural history of Central Illinois. This is done through the use of interactive demonstrations in the areas of soil preparation, seed selection, and corn planting using 1918 techniques and horse-drawn equipment. Six educational stations are set up to teach how our forefathers went about the planting process. Students are encouraged to actively take part in each area to get a better understanding of the efforts and methods used at the turn of the century.

Spring Planting is by school registration only due to limited availability. It is not currently open to the public. Interest in the program has grown tremendously over the years and we continue to find ways to provide education for as many students as possible over the duration of the program. In over 20 years of operation, Spring Planting has taught over 7,500 grade school students the hard work and methods of farming at the turn of the century. This hands-on experience has made a lasting impression on them.

Spring Planting is put on through the tremendous support of the volunteers that donate their time during the event. The three days in which the event takes place in April take over 180 volunteers, giving a total of over 825 hours of their time. These volunteers consist of quite a few retired educators. However, they also come from all walks of life. They are here donating their precious time to create a memorable and educational experience for the children. We are very thankful for this outpouring of support.

We also are so grateful for the support and contributions from numerous individuals, businesses, and organizations. Without the generous support of these wonderful people and entities, Spring Planting would not be possible. 

Photos provided by Dave Hinkle