MCCD Holds Last-Ever 'Trail of History' this Weekend at Glacial Park

The McHenry County Conservation District is holding its last-ever "Trail of History" this weekend at Glacial Park in Ringwood.

For the past 25 years, the "Trail of History" has brought history to life at the base of the glacial kames at Glacial Park, located off Route 31 in Ringwood. A kame is a tall hill or mound formed by sediment of sand and gravel of a retreating glacier. 

Originally, the gathering was called "Kames Rendezvous," which started in 1989 when plans were proposed to run a highway through Glacial Park.

The "Kames Rendezvous" aimed to invite the public into the natural area so they could see and appreciate its beauty first hand. Visitors parked near the entrance of Glacial Park, and hiked along a long, scenic trail to reach the encampment. 

Over the years, more attractions have been added and the name was changed to "The Trail of History," and the gathering grew into one of the premier history re-enactments in the Midwest.

According to the McHenry County Conservation District, the Trail of History has grown to include 150 encampments - made up of various historical re-enactors such as soldiers, blacksmiths, early settlers, a medicine man, fur traders and the Metis Native American Indians.

The interpreters travel from across the country to Glacial Park, where they  portray and demonstrate life as it was from 1670–1850 in the former Northwest Territory focusing on the interrelationship between nature. Guests will see military tactics demonstrations, pioneer games, candle making, music and other displays. 

For the full weekend, the interpreters dress in character. They eat, sleep and work just as the pioneers, soldiers, or tradesman they portray did. At night, the campers settle into their tents, teepees or makeshift cabins and share stories or music by candlelight or fire. 

If you haven't visited a "Trail of History," this is your last opportunity to do so. It's great family-oriented event - you can see and learn about history in the beautiful setting of Glacial Park. 

Trail of History