Fort De Chartres To Mark 100-Year Anniversary As Illinois State Historic Site

Fort de Chartres State Historic Site in Randolph County in southwest Illinois will observe the 100th anniversary of its dedication as a state park and historic site during a re-dedication event scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 5, at the fort.

On October 10, 1919, a bronze plaque was presented by the Illinois Chapter of the Colonial Dames of America dedicating Fort de Chartres as a state park. Historical records indicate the state of Illinois had acquired the Fort de Chartres site in 1914 and 1915. After development of the site slowed during World War I, work on the site resumed after the war, leading up to the dedication in October 1919.

In addition to the re-dedication ceremony on October 5, there will be 1920s-era music and an antique automobile demonstration. A collection of vintage material, photos and documents from the first 100 years of the site’s modern history will be on display, and re-enactors dressed in early 20th century clothing will be on the grounds. Those attending the anniversary event are encouraged to wear period clothing, if they wish.

The event is free and open to the public. Seating will be limited, so those attending are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Souvenir shirts will be available for purchase during the event, with proceeds benefiting Les Amis du Fort de Chartres, a not-for-profit organization that supports Fort de Chartres.

For more information on the event, visit the website at www.fortdechartres.us. For general site information, phone 618-284-7230.

Fort de Chartres is located at 1350 Illinois Route 155, four miles west of Prairie du Rocher, Illinois. The site is open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(Information in a release from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.)