Vehe Farm
Vehe Farm, a sprawling fifteen-acre property, stands as one of Lake County, Illinois’ two esteemed centennial farm sites. This historic complex includes seven culturally significant structures, reflecting the rich agricultural heritage of the region. For four generations, the Vehe family maintained the farm until its transition into the care of the Village of Deer Park in 1999. Acquired with the intent to honor the Vehe family’s legacy, the site has since been preserved and repurposed to serve the local community.
Nurture played a pivotal role in ensuring the site’s preservation and continued relevance by developing a phased master plan for its restoration and adaptive reuse. This plan included the meticulous restoration of the farmhouse, which now serves as a functional space for village use, and the careful exterior restoration and adaptation of the main barn building into a vibrant community center.
Today, the Vehe Farm site functions as the administrative hub for Deer Park Village, offering office space for village staff, and hosting a variety of village and community events. These events range from village meetings and public lectures to art exhibitions and historical displays, all of which help to foster a sense of community while celebrating the site’s storied past.The grounds of the Vehe Farm are thoughtfully designed to offer a blend of historical and natural experiences. Walking paths meander through restored native prairie landscapes, inviting visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Interpretive agricultural displays provide insight into the farming practices that once sustained the Vehe family and the broader community, offering a tangible connection to their past.