Test Your Knowledge: Join the Jasper County America 250 Scavenger Hunt!
Jasper County Invites Residents to Join America 250 Scavenger Hunt
JASPER COUNTY — Think you know your local history? Now’s your chance to prove it! The Jasper County Historical Society is excited to announce the America 250 Scavenger Hunt, a fun and engaging way for residents to explore the rich history of their county while celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
Participants are challenged to locate ten historic sites scattered throughout Jasper County, snap a selfie with each site in the background, and upload their photos to a shared album. Those who successfully capture all ten locations will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize, while every entry will receive a complimentary gift from local sponsors.
How It Works:
Using clues provided by the historical society, contestants will embark on a journey to discover notable buildings and monuments. Each clue leads to a different location, and participants must ensure both the site and themselves are clearly visible in their photos. All entries must be submitted by July 1 at 9 p.m. CST, either online or via traditional mail.
For those who prefer the digital route, photos can be uploaded at www.vogile.com/jasper250. Alternatively, printed photos can be mailed to the Jasper County Museum or dropped off during open hours. Each family or household is allowed one entry, and all submissions must include contact information.
Exciting Prizes Await:
The grand prize winner will be drawn on July 3 at 11 a.m. at Hal Gray Park in Rensselaer, with prizes including a gift basket filled with Jasper County merchandise. If no entry contains all ten photos, the top 25 submissions will still be eligible for the grand prize.
Clues to Get You Started:
- A Monument in the Country: Once a school, now a monument that keeps “hanging” around.
- A Handcrafted Church: Built by a minister with rocks, this Wheatfield landmark awaits your photo.
- The Artistic House: A 100-year-old brick house in DeMotte, home to three artists and a mural.
- The Historic Depot: A museum with a big caboose that tells the story of DeMotte and Jasper County.
- Fountain Park Chautauqua: Capture a moment at the front gate of this summer entertainment hub.
- A Famous Structure in Remington: Snap a selfie with the tall structure that inspired a local festival.
- The Hall Log Cabin: Located in a “fair” place, this cabin is a must-visit.
- A Grave of Historical Significance: Find John Van Rensselaer’s grave and take a picture with his gravestone.
- The County Government Building: Easily identifiable, this building is located on the square.
- A Civil War General: Snap a photo with the statue of Rensselaer’s own Civil War General.
Community Support:
The Jasper County Historical Society extends its gratitude to local sponsors, including Richard Commingore Law, Erica’s Boutique, and Maria’s Mexican Restaurant, for their generous support of this event.
So grab your camera, gather your family, and dive into the history of Jasper County! For more details and to stay updated, visit the historical society’s Facebook page or email jasperhistory250@gmail.com for any inquiries.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, explore, and celebrate!