Governor JB Pritzker has announced that two Heritage Corridor Destinations small businesses have been inducted into the Illinois Made Program. Millstone Bakery of LaSalle and Dollinger Family Farm of Channahon were both chosen by the Illinois Office of Tourism as two local businesses that exemplify the authentic experiences and innovative products that make Illinois an incredible destination to explore for residents and visitors alike.
“Local businesses are a vital part of the economic engine in our area and make a significant impact on tourism throughout the region.” said Heritage Corridor President and CEO, Robert Navarro.
Dollinger Family Farm, located just outside of Channahon, has been in the Dollinger Family since 1852. They produce honey, fudge, donuts and sell pumpkins that are grown onsite. Grandma’s house was a stop on the stagecoach line and the Mule Barn was used to switch mule teams on the I&M Canal which runs along the farm.
Millstone Bakery, located in downtown LaSalle, opened in 2022 and is known for their made by hand from-scratch breads and pastries. The bakery is in an old two-story commercial building that still has the original tin ceiling and maple floors. The walls feature pictures of the area’s historic granaries, flour mills, old bakeries, and the region’s ethnicities whose baking traditions they carry on.
The Illinois Made program encourages residents and visitors to discover the people, products and unparalleled experiences found at small businesses in every region of the state. The newest class of 48 Makers reflects a wide range of businesses, from craft breweries and U-pick farms to handmade artisan candles and macarons.
Heritage Corridor Destinations ignites, influences, and impacts the visitor experience through tourism partnerships within the communities and counties along the historic I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor. Starting just a few miles southwest of Chicago and extending southwest through Starved Rock Country. The Bureau is the officially certified bureau for the following counties: Bureau, Grundy, LaSalle, Princeton, Putnam and Will.
