The movie premiere of “History Happens Here: The 1846 Blodgett House” will highlight the home and family of early Downers Grove pioneers Israel and Avis Blodgett and how they expressed their abolitionist sentiments through their participation in the underground railroad.

This will be the 4th in this very special docuseries by the Historical Society. All 4 were produced and directed by Jim Toth, owner of Node Films, as a gift to the Downers Grove Historical Society to help preserve Downers Grove's history for future generations.

Before the presentation of the film, Jim Toth will be recognized by the Downers Grove Historical Society as the 2024 Historian of the Year, an honor the society uses to recognize individuals who have significantly promoted and preserved Downers Grove's History.

Presented by: Jim Toth’s Node Films, Downers Grove Historical Society & Classic Cinemas Location: Tivoli Theater; the bar and the concessions stand will be open during the event.

6:00 Doors Open | Wurlitzer Performance

6:30 Tivoli Theatre History Presentation

6:50 Presentation of the 2024 Historian of the Year Award

7:00 Underground Railroad Documentary Premiere