Experience History as You Go through the Museum
Let your students experience what it is like to storm OMAHA Beach or be inside the trenches with guided tours of the First Division Museum. Tours of the Main Exhibit Hall provide students with an opportunity to examine American military history through the experience of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division. Life-size dioramas allow tours to focus on the physical and personal aspects of war. The 1st Infantry Division was formed in 1917 and is still on active duty today. It is the longest continuously active division in the United States Army. The story of these men and women ties in with story of American history being taught in the classroom.
Guided tours of the First Division are available to school groups grades four through 12 with reservations. A museum docent must accompany these groups through the Main Exhibit Hall. Tours are 45 minutes in length. Schools must make reservations before coming to the museum. Please make your reservation by calling 630.260.8162 or registering online at the Cantigny Park website.
Teacher's Guide to the Main Exhibit Hall
The teacher's guide includes a Main Exhibit Hall overview, pre-visit activities, a quiz that can be filled out while on the tour, and post-visit activities. Click here to download.
Transportation Scholarships
The Cantigny First Division Foundation is now offering transportation scholarships. Schools must apply for the scholarship at least six weeks in advance of the scheduled field trip. Schools will be notified via mail or email of the scholarship. They are to make their own bus arrangements and submit an invoice to the Cantigny First Division Foundation for reimbursement of up to $200. A check will then be mailed to the school.
Eligibility Requirements
- A teacher or school administrator may apply on behalf of a fourth through twelfth grade class or classes.
- Schools must be located in the Chicagoland area.
- Schools must serve a student population comprised of at least 40% who qualify for free or reduced lunch under the National School Lunch Program.
- Schools may be awarded up to two scholarships per calendar year.
