established in 1830

3N369 LaFox Road is a unique farm property. It consists of two acres, two historic homes, two out buildings--the barn being the oldest structure in Campton Township-- and numerous gardens cared for using organic practices for over 20 years.

In the 1830’s John Beatty came to the Illinois territory to settle on land given to him for fighting in the army. He came to this parcel, built a log cabin not far from here and the first section of this barn to house his oxen so that he could till the prairie. He farmed this land for 70 years. He then sold the farm to the Mungerson family, who farmed this land for 100 years. The family sold most of the land to developers in 1997 and separately sold this two acre parcel to us, the Newkirk family.

The farm needed a major update, but the potential was in place. We had the dream of a cooking school on the farm--to bring people back in touch with the land on which their food was grown while reconnecting with the history of Kane County.

We began the historic renovation by first moving the 1847 home of James Durant from its Dean Street location to its current site. Renovations were completed by fall of 1999 when the school opened on site. The special usage permit for light commercial use will be included in the sale of the property. The building is handicapped accessible and meets fire and safety regulations.

The 1860’s farmhouse, which is our residence, was then renovated by taking it to the studs and rebuilding it according to State of Illinois guidelines from 1999 to 2003.

The barn (1833) and coach house (1929) have been made structurally sound as well as adding new electric wiring and barn flooring while maintaining their integrity and value.

It’s time for us to retire from the dream that we have loved. What dream do you have that would fit this wonderful unique property? Suitable for a special event center, farm to fork restaurant, B&B, or farm stand. You might even live in one house and bring the in-laws to live in the other. 

Interested? Contact us for more information

countrygardencook@sbcglobal.net