History will come alive later this month at Forest Glen Preserve as the Vermilion County Conservation District hosts the Vermilion Valley Encampment, a Revolutionary War reenactment scheduled for Saturday, September 27, and Sunday, September 28.

The two-day event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day and will offer visitors a chance to step back into the 18th century. The encampment will feature reenactors in period clothing, presenting demonstrations, drills, and fashion shows. Each afternoon at 3:30 p.m., a large-scale battle reenactment will bring Revolutionary War history to life on the preserve’s grounds.

One of the highlights of the weekend will be Pioneer Craft Day on Sunday in the preserve’s Homestead Cabin area. Guests can watch and participate in traditional crafts such as cider pressing and rail splitting, while children will be able to dip candles to take home. Visitors will also be able to sample fry bread and explore the work of period artisans set up around the cabin lawn.

The Vermilion Valley Encampment is designed to be accessible and educational for all ages. Organizers emphasize that all activities are free to the public.

For more information, contact the Vermilion County Conservation District office at 217-662-2142 or email event coordinator Brenna Karcher at bkarcher@vccd.org.