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From a news release from Lake County Forest Preserves:
Hear the crack of gunfire and the boom of cannons as history comes to life at the Lake County Forest Preserves’ 17th annual Civil War Days.
Civil War Days is the largest Civil War re-enactment in Illinois, and takes place July 12 and 13 at the Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda. This annual event draws over 600 re-enactors from seven states, and 5,000 visitors from Illinois and surrounding areas. Civil War Days features infantry, cavalry and artillery re-enactors, as well as musicians, sutlers (merchants who followed the military camps, catering to the needs of the soldiers), medical personnel, historical figures and civilians.
The two-day event begins with Living History Day on Saturday, July 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors of all ages can explore the military and civilian camps and learn about life in the 1860s. Wander through civilian camps and Civil War shops to see people portraying blacksmiths, quilters, tin smiths and other historical figures from the era. In the military camps re-enactors bring to life activities such as pay day, weapon checks, mail call and drills. Throughout the day, surprise skirmishes erupt around the grounds.
The Living History Day concludes with the popular Civil War Camp Tours.
From 5:45 to 8 p.m., re-enactors lead visitors on special one-hour tours to see characters preparing for battle in military, civilian and medical camps. The night concludes with a spectacular firing of the cannons at dusk. Reservations are required for Civil War Camp Tours, call
847-968-3321 or visit www.LCFPD.org to register. Space is limited.
On Sunday, July 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., camps remain open as the troops prepare for battle. Visitors can view special cavalry demonstrations and skirmishes, as well as field hospital demonstrations.
The event culminates with the narrated Big Battle at 1:30 p.m. This one-hour battle represents a typical battle scene, rather than a specific battle, and features artillery, cavalry, infantry and medical re-enactors. Arrive by 12:30 p.m. to secure a good viewing spot for the battle.
On both days, visitors can "meet" historical figures including Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth and Generals Lee, Jackson, Custer, Grant and Sherman. The event also hosts a recreation of the 1863 Agricultural Fair organized by the Lake County Agricultural Society. A large Civil War era shopping area and period music and entertainment are also featured. Visitors can bring a picnic lunch or purchase food at the event.
Lakewood Forest Preserve and the Lake County Discovery Museum are located on Route 176 just west of Fairfield Road near Wauconda.
Tickets for Civil War Days include parking and free admission to the Lake County Discovery Museum. Cost is $8 for adults and $4 for youth ages four to 17. Admission for children age three and under is free. Download discount admission coupons at www.LCFPD.org/civilwar.
For more information on Civil War Days call 847-968-3400 or visit www.LCFPD.org/civilwar.
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Photos: Chip Williams, courtesy of lake County Forest Preserves
