HISTORY

The Will County Farm Bureau has a long, storied history representing agriculture in Will County. From our initial organization in 1913 to today, grassroots efforts by local farmers have lead us through the ever-changing challenge of producing safe and abundant food, fiber, and fuel for communities local and beyond.

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1913

Will County Soil & Water Association forms and is headquartered in the Woodruff Building at Chicago & Jefferson in Joliet. This association will help form the Illinois Agricultural Association in 1916, which is the Illinois Farm Bureau today.

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1919

The Will County Soil & Water Association becomes the Will County Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau Federation is organized in Chicago. In 1920, Will County Farm Bureau moves into the Terminal Building at Clinton & Ottawa in Joliet.

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1927

Will County Farm Supply Company is organized, which later becomes the Will-DuPage Service Company, and merges with Heritage FS in 2001.

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1950

Will County population reaches 134,000 and Will County Farm Bureau membership reaches over 3,000.

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1961

Will County Farm Bureau builds and moves to its current home at 100 Manhattan Rd. in Joliet.

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1974

Will County Farm Bureau organizes its first legislative visit to the Capital and the Young Farmers host their first petting zoo at the Will County Fair.

1986

The Will County Farm Bureau Foundation is organized and awards a $500 Scholarship to Carl Hauert.

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1995

Will County Farm Bureau strengthens its connection with students by hosting the First Annual Ag Expo, attracting 1,000 students. The Ag Expo still holds strong today being held every March.

2013

Will County Farm Bureau celebrates its 100th Anniversary with a program featuring Orion Samuelson.

2020s

Will County Farm Bureau continues to work hard for its members and Will County, preparing farmers for future challenges and advocating for local farmers to our public.