Event Details
The Battle of Gelatin Hill
Revolutionary War Reenactment Comes to Grayslake
Grayslake, IL - As Grayslake commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Central and Gelatin Parks will be transformed by a Revolutionary War reenactment on Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16.
That weekend, reenactors from the North West Territory Alliance will portray soldiers, doctors, artisans, craftsman, officers, and camp followers. Two parks will be filled with artillery fire, marching troops, music, and historic crafts. Both those reenacting the Colonists and the British will breathe life back into the 250-year-old history of the revolution.
As many as 100 reenactors will camp in Gelatin Park. Visitors can watch military drills and battles, wander around the encampments to ask questions of the reenactors, and enjoy a family-friendly day of educational fun. There are kid-specific activities planned in conjunction with the event.
“In a year with a large-scale celebration like the USA 250th,” said Katie Brethorst-Stockwell, Deputy Director of the Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum. “We are very excited to offer fun, educational events in our downtown that honor, explore, and commemorate the history of the founding of the United States.”
This will be the first Revolutionary War reenactment held in the Village of Grayslake and is being hosted in conjunction with the Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual SummerFest. The reenactors will march in the SummerFest parade, which takes place at 2 PM on Saturday, August 15.
The Revolutionary War reenactment is a free event in partnership with the North West Territory Alliance reenactment group, the Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum, the Village of Grayslake, the Grayslake Community Park District, and the Grayslake Village Center as part of Grayslake USA 250 initiative.
This event will take place rain or shine, and a full schedule of battles, demonstrations, and other events will be made available on the Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum’s Facebook prior to the event.