Midwestern Events

2005

  (Eddie Little Bear and Family will be at the events marked with an * )
Early American Calendar 

 

February 19 - 20 Indiana

Conner Long Rifle Living History and Antique Arms Show, Noblesville, IN. Sponsored by the Conner Long Rifles, located at the Hamilton County 4H Fairgrounds Exhibition Center, 2003 Pleasant St., Noblesville, IN. Saturday 9 - 5 and Sunday 9 - 4. Admission $4, children 12 and under free. Over 200 tables of antique arms and accoutrements. Top merchants and sutlers from the Midwest . Art, blacksmithing, pottery, clothing, tools and items of interest for living history from 1700 - 1800s. 19th century military unit reenacting and displays. For more information contact Mike Dollinger (317) 598-6288, email Smokingiron@sbcglobal.net or call Andy Buckner (317) 255-9912.

 

February 19 - 20 Michigan

9th Annual Early American Living History Show, Davidsburg, MI. Presented by Chief Pontiac Trail. Early American crafts, clothing and accoutrements, patterns, skill and craft demonstrations, muzzleloaders and kits, books, woolen goods, and refreshments. 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday and 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Sunday. Located indoors at the Oakland County 4H fair exhibition building, in Springfield Oaks County Park. Admission: adults and youth over 12 yrs, $3, under 12 free with an adult. All proceeds benefit the youth programs supported by the Chief Pontiac Trail Clinton Valley Council, BSA. For more information contact Lloyd Baker (248) 698-4414, email : scouter3@ix.Netcom.com

 

February 26 - 27 Wisconsin

"Echos of the Past" 23rd Annual Historical Trade Fair, Oshkosh, WI. Sponsored by the Bradley Company of the Fox. Event located at the Sunnyview Expo Center - WInnebago County Fairgrounds, County Y, 1/2 mile east of Jackson St. One of the Midwest's largest indoor historical trade fairs. Show hours are Saturday 9 - 5, and Sunday 9 - 4. Supplies for the reenactor, muzzle loading enthusiast and the general public. Merchants selling historical clothing, patterns, books, tin ware, pewter, beads, leather, fur, forged iron, pottery, firearms, knives, and hundreds of other items. Meet civilians and soldiers representing time periods ranging from the mid - 1700s through the American Civil War and the Wwstern Frontier. On going seminars daily. The event is open to the public, admission is $5.00 for adults, children under 10 free with an adult. Food available on site. For more information contact: Brian Bradley, (920) 233-5332, email bradley@bradleycompanyofthefox.com website: www.bradleycompanyofthefox.com

 

March 5 - 6 Indiana

Southwest Conservation Club Indoor Trade Fair, Fort Wayne, IN. Sponsored by the Southwest Conservation Club. Event location is 5703 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, IN. Welcome trapers and traders to our indoor trade fair...come and display your wares. $15.00 per table set-up fee, $2.00 door charge. Food and drinks will be available, door prizes will be given away. There are motels and dining within the area and RVs are welcome (no hook-ups available). Restrooms available. Hours are 9am- 5pm on Saturday and 9am - 4pm on Sunday. Reservations must be in by Friday Feb. 10th. For mopre information contact Jim Shawver (Running Water), 4311 Girad Rd., New Haven, IN 46774, call 9260) 493-7354 or email j.lshawver@verizon.net , or on the web visit www.swconservationclub.com

 

March 12 -13 Illinois

Prairieland Frontiersman 16th Annual Historic Arms & Craft Show, Teutoplis, IL. Located at the Teutopolis Knights of Columbus Hall, exit 159 off I-57 and I-70, then 5 miles on Rt. 40. 9:00am - 5:00pm Saturday, and 9:00am - 3:00pm Sunday. Traders and artisans of the colonial / fur trade / Civil War / Indian War eras. Pre 1898 guns, knives, accoutrements or replicas thereof. No exceptions. Door prizes each day, must be present to win. Security provided. Entry fee $3.00. 8' tables $25.00 both days. Over 125 tables available, reserve early. For further information call Steve Wood, (217) 728-7369.

 

March 19 - 20 Illinois

American Long Rifle Association Encampment, Fort de Chartres, Prairie du Rocher, IL. The ALRA portray the long hunter era of 1750 - 1790. Firewood, water provided. Participants must be members of ALRA. For more information contact: Fort de Chartres, Steve Anderson, 1350 State Rt. 155, Prairie du Rocher, IL 62277, (618) 284-7230, e-mail: ftdechart@hte.net

 

March 19 - 20 Michigan

30th Annual Kalamazoo Living History Show, Kalamazoo, MI. Located at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Kalamazoo County Fairgrounds, 2900 Lake St. ( I-94, exit 80 North). More than 10,000 reenactors from the French and Indian War through the Civil War, history buffs, collectors and the general public from 18 states and Canada come together to buy, sell, and trade. The juried nationally recognized event attracts over 270 of the finest craftsman and deaalers throughout the US of pre 1890 living history accoutrements and related crafts. Persons in pre-1890 clothing are eligible for a drawing on a door prize each day. For dealer packet of motel information contact Larry L. Coin, Yankee Doodle Muzzle Loaders, Inc., PO Box 453, Portage, MI 49081, (269) 327-4557, or visit our website at www.KalamazooShow.com

 

April 8 - 10 Missouri

Little Niangua Mountain Man Rendezvous, Roach, MO. Located at Little Niangua Campground. Pre-1840s Accommadations and attire are required for the Primitive pioneer Camping and Traders Row. All primitive crafts and skill demonstrations are welcome. Open to the public and groups are welcome. There is ample parking for busses and RVs. Events are planned throughout the weekend, including shoots. Admission is free. Primitive camp fee is $10.00. Firewood, water and modern bath facilities are provided. Traders fee is $50.00. There will be blanket prizes, best camp, best traders, best dressed male, female, and couple, best craft or skill demonstration. Open to the public Friday and Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 9am - 3pm. For more information call or write : Little Niangua Campground, 275 Taylor Rd., Roach, MO 65787, (573) 347-2728. email : info2gorvcamping.com website: www.gorvcamping.com

 

April 8 - 10 Illinois

Scab Holler Rendezvous, Schuyler County, IL. Sponsored by the Mascouten Bay Longrifles. Located between Rushville and Beardstown, IL. Wood and camping area provided. Buckskinning families, traders/sutlers, craftspeople and the public are welcome. All metal targets, ax, knife, fire starting. Rifle, smoothbore and pistol. For more information contact: Squire Tyson, (217) 323-2319 or (217) 323-1745 (evenings) 212 Washington, Beardstown, IL 62618, or 2 Arrows (217) 323-5946.

 

April 8 - 10 Missouri

3rd Annual Heart of America Smoothbore Championship, Huntsville, MO. Hosted by the Pine Ridge Mountain Men. Primitive camp, firewood available. Novelty, paper and clay birds in aggregate. Everyone welcome. If you are a smoothbore shooter don't miss this one. For more information contact David Yeubanks, (660) 385-4963, or Lincoln Keen, (660) 777-3396.

 

April 16-17 Illinois

Harper House Pioneer Day and Spring Rendezvous, Palestine, IL. Sponsored by the palestine Preservation Society and Fort LaMotte. Experience life in the historic home of Judge John B. Harper, 102 N. Lincoln St., April 16th with pioneer crafts and settler skills. Beans and cornbread will be served at 11:00 am for a free will donation. An 1812 camp and shoot will be held at Leaverton Park April 16 - 17 to include knife and hawk throwing, camping and pre- 1840 black powder target shooting from 9am - 3pm. Water and restrooms provided for reenactors. For more information contact J.D. Kimberlin, 308 W. Harrison St., Palestine IL 62451, (618) 586-2063 after 5pm, email: jabc@frsb.net

 

April 22 - 24 Illinois

29th Annual Prairieland Frontiersmen Spring Rendezvous, at the club range south of Sullivan, IL. For further information call Steve Wood, ( 217) 728-7369.

 

April 23 -24 Indiana

Friendship Circle Ladies Living History Rendezvous, Friendship, IN. A rendezvous for women who wish to experience and learn living history without the man of the camp. Located at the primitive range in Friendship, IN. Shooting and hawk and knife throw competitions, entry fee is a blanket prize, $10.00 value. Pre-registration is requested and must be received no later than April 1. Fee is $25.00 per person pre-registered, $30.00 at the gate. Rendezvous ssis open to all women over 12 years of age, and anyone under 3 years of age. Period 1750 - 1840 rules apply. If you have never set up your lodge alone, or need help, someone in camp will be willing to help. Call Linda Trammel with any questions. Workshops: spinning taught by Michelle Cole, knitting taught by June Patterson. Water, showers, firewood provided. Saturday night pitch -in dinner. For more information contact Linda Trammel, 4149 Crystal View Court, Cincinnati, OH 45241, (513) 569-4315.

 

April 23 - 24 Indiana

Menominee Muzzleloaders Spring Rendezvous, Plymouth, IN. Sponsored by the Menominee Muzzle Loaders. Wood, water, porta johns, and ice on site provided. Call for early set up or information. NO Public. Open to traders, craftspeople, buckskinning families and walk-ons welcome. Archery, knife and hawk, skillet and rollin' pin toss, shot gun, and woodswalk to take place. Primitive attire required at all times. For more information contact Kathy Greer at 17003 W. 14th Rd., Plymouth, IN 46563, (574) 842-3111, Kevin at (574) 784-2479, or Jerry at (219) 393-5360.

 

*April 22 - 24 Illinois

The Gathering at Macktown, Rockton, IL. Sponsored by the Macktown Living History Education Center. Pre 1850 education event at Macktown Forest Preserve. School day on Friday, public welcome Saturday 9 -5 and Sunday 9 -4 . Admission $4.00 in advance, $5.00 at gate, ages 6 and under free. Visitor parking with free shuttle at Hononegah High School in Rockton. Participants by juried invitation only, jury deadline Dec. 31. Write Steering Committee, PO Box 556, Roscoe, IL 61073 for information. Visistors, please direct questions to Rockton Chamber of Commerce at (815) 624-7625.

 

April 23- 24 Illinois

School of the Soldier, Fort du Chartres, Prairie de Rocher, IL. This year's event will include seminars, competition men and women shoot, potluck dinner and music. Lecture topics will be available by emailing: la_grenouille@sbcglobal.net There is no camping fee, water and some wood available. Attendees are requested to bring a dish to Saturday pot luck. Entree provided by Milice Ste Famille. All interested in learning about Illinois country during the French and Indian War are welcome. Cost is free. The cost is offset by an auction, bring or send your period item. For more information contact: Earl Biffle, FT17 Chairman, 26 Lake Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, phone (636) 729-4532, email: biff.bat@juno.com ; Milice de Ste Famille: John Mefford Capt., (618) 877-6337, email: kukuwa@charter.net or Illinois State Park of Fort de Chartres: (618) 284-7230. Auction items to Dennis Sambo.

 

April 23 - 24 Indiana

13th Annual Bridgeton Mountain Man Rendezvous, Bridgeton, IN. Water, wood, porta johns, and free set-up provided. Public, traders, buckskinning families and military units welcome. Will have blanket shoot and canoe race. For more information contact Larry Keller, PO Box 148, Montezuma, IN 47862 or call (765) 245-2696.

 

April 23 - 24 Indiana

15th Annual Redbud Trail Rendezvous, Rochester, IN. Spring rendezvous at the site of the Trail of Courage. See the Fulton County Museum, Round Barn Museum and Living History Village. Located on the Fulton County Historical Society grounds, 4 miles north of Rochester on New US 31. Amenities: straw, free firewood, low prices for camping and trading, free showers. See Indian and Mountain Man encampments along with militia camps, blanket traders, merchants and more. All primitive camps must be pre 1840. Pre- 1840 dress required for all participants during public hours 8am - 5pm. Modern camping available. General admission: adults/$3, children 6-12/$1, age five and under free. For more information on rules and registration contact : Fulton County Historical Society, 37 E. 375 N., Rochester, IN, 46975, (574) 223-4436, website www.iscc.net/~fchs or email: fchs@rtcol.com

 

April 29 - May 1 Michigan

Grand Valley Cap n' Ballers Spring Shoot/ Rendezvous, Dorr, MI. Event is located at 136th Ave 26th St. in Dorr. Primitive and modern camp sites are available. The kitchen will be open all day Saturday and until 1:00 pm Sunday. There are line matches, shotgun matches and primitive events. Merchandise prizes are awarded for the first three places (unless otherwise noted). Traders and the public are welcome. Come see our new Rabbit River Encampment at a part of the spring shoot. For more information contact: Mike and Norma Hall, 1739 Bridle Creek SE, Kentwood, MI 49508 (616) 827-0942.

 

April 29 - May 1 Indiana

2nd Annual Spring Trails Rendezvous, Fortville, IN. Sponsored by the Blue River Longrifles, Inc. Located at the Fortville American Legion Park, approximately 1 mile north of Fortville, IN on St Rd 13. Traders welcome. $10.00 camp fee to all. Pitch in dinner Saturday night, mountain man contest, archery, hawk anad knife throw. Firewood, water and bathrooms on site. Open to the public 10am - 5pm Friday and Saturday. Contact Gary Riddle (765) 778-3924 for further information.

 

May 3 - 8 Wisconsin

Bloody Lake Rendezvous, Woodford County Park, Monroe , WI. Sponsored by the Yellowstone Flint and Cap Club, Inc. Activities include: primitive and fun shoots, hawk and knife throws, children's games. A battlefield narrative tour as this is the site of the bloody lake battle of Chief Black hawk. There is a horse camp available. There are modern campsites available in other areas of Woodford Park. Pre-1840 dress required for participants. Amenities: water, ice, wood, outhouses. For more infoormation contact: Vicki Tollakson, PO Box 3, Argyle, WI 53504, (608) 543-3716, email: nvet@mhtc.net

 

May 7 Illionis

Kids Days, Fort de Chartres, Prairie du Rocher, IL. A special day for children with 18th century games, contests, storytelling, puppet shows, prizes and refreshments. 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Free event. For more information contact: Fort de Chartres, Steve Anderson, 1350 State Rt. 155, Prairie du Rocher, IL 62277, (618) 284-7230, email: ftdechart@hte.net

 

May 7 - 8 Indiana

22nd Annual Baugo Station Living History Festival, Ferretti/Baugo Creek County Park, Osceola, IN. Sponsored by the Ferretti/ Baugo Creek County Park, corner of ASh Rd, and Lincolnway East. Events include: heavy and light medieval weapon fighting, candle making, knife and hawk competition, skillet toss, scavenger hunt (for the children), pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Some wood, water and bathrooms provided. For more information contact: Edgar Clifton, 2319 Panama St., Mishawaka, IN 46544, (574) 329-8569, email: ec1840@yahoo.com

 

May 13 - 15 Indiana

14th Annual Spring Fling, Hesters Farm Log Homes, Walkerton, IN. Public welcome. Pre-1840 living history with two log homes, smokehouse and barn. Red schoolhouse, wigwam, picinic and play area. Working Jersey dairy farm, Belgian and Halfinger horses, and Gram's miniature animals. Celtic, blackpowder shooting, archery, knife and hawk. Wood, water, and porta-johns provided. For more information contact: Annette Hesters, (574) 586-2105 email: rath@dnsoline.net, or website www.hestersloghomes.com

 

May 14 - 15 Indiana

Voyageur Rendezvous, Hebron, IN. Sponsored by Lake County Parks, located at Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park, 21690 Rangeline Road, Hebron, IN 46341. This is a small juried event on a beautiful park site, surrounded by water. Voyageurs, French, British and Scottish militia, woodland Indian. Canoes encouraged. New Applicants need to send photos of camp. For more information contact Carrie Crisan, LC Parks, 5016 W. 133rd Ave., Crown Point, IN 46307, (219) 663-8170, email: ccrisan@jorsm.com

 

May 20 - 22 Illinois

Trail of Tears Rendezvous, Jonesboro, IL. Sponsored by Everett Rhine. Located Trail of Teaars State Forest. Amenities: firewood, water, toilets, Satur day night meal - meat provided, pot luck. For more information contact Everett Rhine, 1875 Friendship School Road, Anna, IL 62906, (618) 833-3129, or email: cannons@beartracktradingpost.com

 

May 20 - 22 Wisconsin

15th Annual Cross-Roads Rendezvous, Saukville, WI. Sponsored by the Saukville Area Historical Society. Attendance for 2004 Rendezvous was 585 lodges. Straw, firewood and drinking water supplied, ice available for purchase. 15 acres. Portable restrooms available. Convenient parking. Closed camp. Traders welcome. No vehicles allowed at camp woodpile. No setup before noon on Wednesday, May 18th by police orders. For more information call (262) 284-0245 or (262) 377-3352 or write to:The Saukville Area Historical Society, PO Box 80015, Saukville, WI 53080-0015.

 

May 21 - 22 Indiana

6th Annual Friendship College Rendezvous, Curly Gostmoski Primitive Area, Friendship, IN. Sponsored by the NMLRA. This will be a unique rendezvous experience designed to help those who are interested in Buckskinning learn more about this wonderful sport. Traders and sutlers are welcome and encouraged to attend. Wood and water furnished. Ice will be available, with nearby RV camping. Cost is $18.00 per person for NMLRA members and $28.00 for non-members for the entire weekend. Under 16 free and no additional cost for traders. Many types of classes offered, including: cooking, blacksmithing, music, hawk and knife throwing, shooting, spinning and pottery. Set-up is friday evening. Medallions given to the first 150 registered. Register by May 1, 2005. For more information contact: Rhonda Burgess - Bourgeouois, 1990 North Forest Hill Rd., Troy, OH 45373 or Karen Leonard - Scribe, same address. Or email: olethymedolls@yahoo.com`

 

May 21 - 22 Indiana

Oswego Trader Days, Oswego, IN. Sponsored by the Mod Lakes Lions. 1765 - 1865. This is a family event and all campers are invited to attend. Wood and water will be provided at no cost. Traders must be registered and accepted prior to 15 April, 2005. Events include long bow, hawk and knife, black powder shoot, Mountain Man, ladies skillet throw and others. Booshway Wayne Weintraut, 9133 W. Harper Lake Rd., Kimmel, IN 46760, (260) 856-5812.

 

*May 27 - 29 Wisconsin

 Fort Koshkonong Buckskinners Rendezvous, Fort Atkinson, WI. Sponsored by the Fort Atkinson Chamber of Commerce. A reenactment of the life in the 1840s at the Rock River Park - off Hwy 106. Featuring "WOmen of the Frontier". Wanted: reenactors who can demonstrate spinning, weaving, soap making, leatherwork, beadwork, food preservation, storytelling, etc. For more information call (888) SEE - FORT .

 

May 27 - 30 Wisconsin

Otter Creek Spring Shoot/ Rendezvous, Milton, WI. Sponsored by the Rock River Buck Skinners, Inc. 23rd Annual Spring event. Four day camping fee of $15.00. Well run and safe place to shoot. Saturday noon camp stew. 300 feet of firing line, 14 matches. Hawk and knife competition. Water and limited firewood available. Under control pets welcome. For more information contact C. Brown (608) 868-2514.

 

May 27 - 30 Michigan

Grand Traverse Rendezvous, Benzonia, MI. Sponsored by the Benzie Sportsman 's Club. Water and firewood provided, ice available for sale. Kids games and a band on the 28th. Everyone is welcome, event is open to the public. For more information contact Jim Dauthrich, PO Box 441, Kingsley, M149649-0441, (213) 492-4089.

 

May 27 - 29 Illinois

Shiloh Valley Muzzleloaders Spring Rendezvous, Belleville, IL. *NEW LOCATION* Located in a quiet country setting at the SVM Club Range, 7029 Mine Haul Rd., Belleville, IL. Traders welcome, camping fee applies ; no separate trade fee charged but blanket prize donation would be greatly appreciated. NMLRA rules apply, fee for matches. Venders: $25.00, Campers $10.00 - does not include shooting fee. Water available and limited wood. Campers may set up Friday, tear down after 3pm Sunday. No Pets. Public welcome. For more information (including directions ) contact Larry Mann (618) 345-1340, or Jim Cook (618) 235-0827.

 

May 27 - 30 Illinois

19th Annual Tiber Creek Rendezvous, Trivoli, IL. Sponsored by the Mackinaw Valley Longrifles. Amenities: wood, water, porta-johns, Monday breakfast. Public is welcome. For more information contact Robert Grady, PO Box 54, Trivoli, IL 61569-0054, (309) 362-2292.

 

May 28 - 29 Wisconsin

Season Opening Weekend and Spring Encampment, Fort Folle Avoine Historical Park, Danbury, WI. Wood and water available. Range open. $10.00 per camp. For more information contact Fort Folle Avoine Historical Park, (715) 866-8890, 8500 Co. Rd. U, Danbury, WI 54830 email: fahp@centurytel.net , or website www.theforts.org

 

May 28 - 30 Wisconsin

Mission House Rendezvous, Fort Bon Secours, Pike Lake, WI. For more information contact Father Thomas, (715) 667-5362, email: fatherthomas@fortbonsecours.org , or visit our website at www.fortbonsecour.org

 

May 28 - 30 Indiana

Mahawa Sipiwi Muzzleloaders Spring Rendezvous, Lebanon, IN. Located at the club ground in Lebanon. Wood provided. Pitch-in Dinner Saturday night. Buckskinning families, traders/sutlers and craftspeople welcome. For more information contact Dee Lueckert, 2102 Yosemite Dr., Lebanon, IN 46052, ((715) 482-4227.

 

 May 28 - 29 Indiana

29th Annual Spirit of Vincennes Rendezvous, Vincennes, IN. A 1700 to 1815 era of period campsites, reenactment battles, merchants, traders, demonstrators, civilian campsites, music, entertainment, children's games and food. Firewood, straw, and water provided. Pre-registration required. For more information contact: website: www.spiritofvincennes.com or CVB (800) 886-6443, or Junior and Charolotte Fischer, (812) 882-7079, email: jsfscher@wvc.net

 

May 28 - 29 Illinois

Fort Crevecoeur  Spring Rendezvous, Creve Coeur, IL. Buckskinning families, traders, historic reenactors and performers of the period are invited to attend this pre-1835 encampment. All clothing and lodges should be from the 1680 - 1835 period. Firewood, water and restroom facilities are provided. In addition to the primitive area, there is a visitor's center, museum, and RV camping/hookups available. For more information and applications contact Ross Bohanon, 406 Rainbow Dr., Creve Coeur, IL (309) 694-6673, or leave a message at the Fort (309) or email Donna at: email: theuplady@aol.com

 

May 28 - 29 Michigan

Feast of the Ste. Claire, Pine Grove Park, Port Huron, MI. Presented by the Port Huron Museum. Colonial style food and drinks available on grounds. See more than 600 historic military re-enactors bring alive the sights, sounds, and smells of early Michigan's History between 1750 - 1840. Fife and drum Corps, cannon demonstrations, children's games, military and camp life activities, fur trader camp, xorking blacksmiths and more to take place. No fees for traders, sutlers, or craftspeople. Setup starts Thursday the 27th. Showers, firewood, flush and portajohns, pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, and dinner Saturday night provided. Admission: adults/$6, students over 6 and seniors/$4, family pass/$15, military personnel and museum members with ID free. For more information contact Harry or Rose Burgess, 1728 Gillett St., Port Huron, MI 48060, (810) 982-3569.

 

June 3 - 5 Illinois

Hill & Holler, Rockford, IL. Sponsored by the Rock Run Long Rifles, Inc. Primitive and modern camping. Shoot. Out houses and wood provided Major outing with something for everyone - paper and primitive rifle, pistol, smoothbore. Cash prizes. Traders welcome. Saturday night pig roast and pot luck dinner for all campers. For more information contact Paul and Sandy Swanson, 9384 Oscaiee Dr., Rockford, IL 61103, or visit the website at www.rrlr.org

 

June 4 - 5 Michigan

4th Annual Stony Creek Historical Encampment, Shelby Township, MI. Located at Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Rd., Shelby Township, MI 48316. A juried event, with individual registration to include: Native Americans, French Militia, Voyageurs, Coureur du Bois, Colonial/French citizens, Tradesmen, and Sutlers. Requirements: application form with pictures. Pre-registration is required. Breakfast Saturday/Sunday with a voluntary "bring a dish" feast on Saturday evening (all food cooked over an open fire in Dutch ovens). Supplied: water, wood, straw, porta johns. Access to showers and beach. The encampment takes place on the beautiful Lakeview Site at Stony Creek Metropark (canoe access to lake). Time frame: 1750 - 1790. Deadline for applications is April 22, 2005. Please contact Karen C. Kenna, Stony Creek Historical Encampment, 8213 Prospect, Warren, MI 48089, (586) 756-4081, email: kennak@netzero.net or Dale Canapini, 22025 Madison, St Clair Shores, MI 48041, (586) 772-5124, email: dcanapini@wideopenwest.com for an application form. Park pass, driving directions and a park map will be furnished upon registration.

 

June 4 - 5 Illinois

35th Annual Fort de Chartres Rendezvous, Prairie du Rocher, IL. One of the largest in the county. 18th century crafts, food, music. Hundreds of participants. Flintlock rifle competitions, cannon, traders and more. Free admission. For more information contact: Fort de Chartres, Steve Anderson, 1350 State Rt. 155, Prairie du Rocher, IL 62277, (618) 284-7230, email: ftdechart@hte.net

 

June 10 - 12 Indiana

4th Annual Berry Feis Rendezvous at Hesters Farm Log Homes, Walkerton, IN. Pre-1840 living history event with blackpowder shooting, archery, knife/hawk, iron skillet toss and rollin' pin throw. Wood, water, porta-johns provided. Located at 71880 SR 23, Walkerton. For more information contact Annette Hesters, (574) 586-2105 . email: rath@dsnonline.net , website: www.hestersfarmloghomes.com

 

 

 

 


 
 French & Indian War Calendar

 

 

April 23- 24 Illinois

School of the Soldier, Fort du Chartres, Prairie de Rocher, IL. This year's event will include seminars, competition men and women shoot, potluck dinner and music. Lecture topics will be available by emailing: la_grenouillesbcglobal.net There is no camping fee, water and some wood available. Attendees are requested to bring a dish to Saturday pot luck. Entree provided by Milice Ste Famille. All interested in learning about Illinois country during the French and Indian War are welcome. Cost is free. The cost is offset by an auction, bring or send your period item. For more information contact: Earl Biffle, FT17 Chairman, 26 Lake Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, phone (636) 729-4532, email biff.bat@juno.com ; Milice de Ste Famille: John Mefford Capt., (618) 877-6337, email: kukuwa@charter.net or Illinois State Park of Fort de Chartres: (618) 284-7230. Auction items to Dennis Sambo.

 

May 6 - 8 Illinois

French & Indian War Event, Independence Pioneer Village, Oakland, IL. Attention! All regular troops, militias and Native allies of their Majesties Louis of France and George of England are hereby invited to assemble in the village of Independence. This village contains 14 log homes, some of which will be available for occupation. Ample ground is available on the village green for all camps. A charming field for an encounter is a short march to a wood, complete with spectator seating. Space is available for color ceremonies, drill demonstrations, and examples of general camp life and crafts. We also need you for school programs for students K - 12 on Friday the 6th from 9:30 am to 2pm. Set-up on Thursday. Water, firewood and straw will be provided. A simple, but hearty meal will be served on Saturday evening. Oakland, IL is located 14 miles east of Arcola on Rt. 133 in Amish country. Please RSVP to: Eric Gray, site director, Independence Pioneer Village, PO Box 251, Oakland, IL 61943, (217) 346-3371, email: ipv1847@aol.com

 

May 15 - July 9 Michigan

Canoe and Portage from Detroit to Pittsburg. To mark the 250th anniversary of the French and Indian War and specifically the anniversary of Braddock's defeat at the battle of the Monongahela, students from Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, Michigan will be canooeing from Detroit to Pittsburg via Lake Erie in the spring and summer of 2005. It is anticipated that students will build two canoes (one twenty five foot, eight person lake canoe and one ssixteen foot, four person river canoe), which will have the shape and size of of eighteenth century watercraft but will be constructed out of modern materials for durability and safety. The group will canoe down from the Rouge River into the Detroit River, passing the historic Ford Rouge Plant . After several weeks of paddling Lake Erie, we will be the first group in living memory to make the historic fourteen mile portage from Erie to Waterford, Pennsylvania, (on French Creek), thereby passing from the Great Lakes to the Ohio River basin. The group will then travel downstream to Ppittsburg, participating in commemorative events along the way. Courses being developed in conjunction with the trip include Hydrology and Environmental Science (to study the watersheds we pass through), History (culture and tecnology of the 1750's; technology impact on the landscape) and Entrepreneurship (planning, leadership and fundraising). For more information call (248) 616-0375 or visit website: www.ltu.edu

 

May 28 - 29 Illinois

French and Indian War Reenactment, Fort Massac, Metropolis, IL. Hosted by the Massiac Marines, the reenactment reflects the French, British, and Native American military and camp life. For more information: Fort Massac State Park, 1308 East 5th St., Metropolis, IL 62960. (618)524-9321.

 

May 28 - 29 Michigan

Feast of the Ste. Claire, Pine Grove Park, Port Huron, MI. Presented by the Port Huron Museum. Colonial style food and drinks available on grounds. See more than 600 historic military re-enactors bring alive the sights, sounds, and smells of early Michigan's History between 1750 - 1840. Fife and drum Corps, cannon demonstrations, children's games, military and camp life activities, fur trader camp, xorking blacksmiths and more to take place. No fees for traders, sutlers, or craftspeople. Setup starts Thursday the 27th. Showers, firewood, flush and portajohns, pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, and dinner Saturday night provided. Admission: adults/$6, students over 6 and seniors/$4, family pass/$15, military personnel and museum members with ID free. For more information contact Harry or Rose Burgess, 1728 Gillett St., Port Huron, MI 48060, (810) 982-3569.

 

 

 


American Revolutionary War Calendar

 

 April 30 - May 1 Illinois

Clash on the Kankakee, Bourbonnais, IL. Sponsored by the Bourbonnais Township Park District. Located at Perry Farm Park. This is the second year for the event. Food, fun and great battles. For more information contact: Paul Nelson, Commander of Bowman's Company, email: m60a3@earthlink.net

 

May 28 - 29 Michigan

Feast of the Ste. Claire, Pine Grove Park, Port Huron, MI. Presented by the Port Huron Museum. Colonial style food and drinks available on grounds. See more than 600 historic military re-enactors bring alive the sights, sounds, and smells of early Michigan's History between 1750 - 1840. Fife and drum Corps, cannon demonstrations, children's games, military and camp life activities, fur trader camp, xorking blacksmiths and more to take place. No fees for traders, sutlers, or craftspeople. Setup starts Thursday the 27th. Showers, firewood, flush and portajohns, pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, and dinner Saturday night provided. Admission: adults/$6, students over 6 and seniors/$4, family pass/$15, military personnel and museum members with ID free. For more information contact Harry or Rose Burgess, 1728 Gillett St., Port Huron, MI 48060, (810) 982-3569.

 

May 28 - 29 Indiana

Spirit of Vincennes Rendezvous, Vincennes, IN. Relive battlefireld activities with units of soldiers from the Northwest Territory Alliance (NWTA) and the Brigade of the American Revolution (BAR). Delight in the Tippecanoe Ancient Fife and Drum Corps. Experience the sounds of artillary demonstrations provided by the Alexander Hamilton New York Company and full battery. Participate in battlefield games, skillet throw, cannonball throw, truth or consequences history . Battle times: Saturday 1 & 4, Sunday 12 & 3:30. Stroll through the encampment and interact with the reenactors. Witness the color ceremony, 18th century fashion show and parade of uniforms. Over 125 booths in session both days demonstrating and selling early American skills and wares. Over 20 food booths. Many games, contests and live entertainment. For more information Contact: website: www.spiritofvincennes.org or Vincennes/Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau, (800) 886-6443.

 

 June 11- 12 Indiana

Scott County , Indiana Museum's Heritage Garrison Weekend, Scottsburg, IN. This is a timeline living history event with special exhibits and demonstrations on the museum grounds. Time periods from 1750 to 1875 are welcome. are welcome to attend. Period camps are encouraged. There will be infantry and artillary demonstrations, camp life, special presentations, skirmishes, and a chance eto meet other reenactors from other time periods. This year's special feature will be the first annual Time Line Cook Off! Overall winner will receive the coveted "Bronzed Ladle"! Finals will be held at 2pm, Sunday, June 12, 2005. Please indicate interest in registering for the cook off. There is no registration fee. Amenities provided: firewood, straw, water, and porta-potties. To register for the event send for registration packet at "Herritage Garrison Weekend", PO Box 122, Scottsburg, IN 47170/ For more information call (812) 752-1050 or email: ranger1905@yahoo.com

 

 


 War of 1812 Calendar

 April 22 - 24 Illinois

School of the 1812 American Soldier, Fort Massac, Metropolis, IL. An Instructive immersion event for both infantry and militia units and their dependants. Participants will live in Barracks. Instruction of military duties, drill, manual of arms, light tactics, clothing, accoutrements, making equipment, fatigue duties and cooking are a few of the topics to be covered. Special workshops to be offered to women in domestic and needle arts, hearth cooking and baking, fashions and accessories, interpretative roles and research, and the life of the woman in the early American Republic. Registration: adults $20.00, children under 13 $15.00. Fees cover foodstuffs, straw and informative handouts. Fees must be received no later than April 1st, 2005. Due to the cost of food and other essentials, cancellations will not be refunded after April 1. All participants must be in clothing pertinent to the 1812 - 1815 historic era. For more information contact : David C. Bennett, 406 West St., Parkville, MO 64152, (816) 505-9806, email: federalist1812@aol.com

 

 


I have endeavored to list all of the events within a 2 week ride of Fort Dearborne (or within 500 miles of Chicago IL in more "modern" terms). If you know of any other events that should be listed, please E-mail me at elb@elbtipi.com

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Midwestern Events /Ed "Eddie Little Bear" Emerson /updated 03/26/05