The Franklin Grove Area Historical Society and Battery G, 2nd Illinois Light Artillery Civil War Reenactment Unit are pleased to present the Third Annual Battle of Chaplin Creek – Civil War Reenactment & Living History Weekend, June 26th and 27th in Franklin Grove, IL.

A depiction of the battle between the states

The Battle of Chaplin Creek depicts a skirmish between Union and Confederate forces in a struggle to control a small village in the south. In recent weeks, the Union soldiers had driven the Confederate forces out of town and now garrison the town.

On Saturday, the Rebels attack the Union forces and attempt to retake the village. Heavy fighting takes place both in the village and in the fields outside of town but the Confederate forces are finally driven off by the Yankees. However, on Sunday the Rebels attack again and after a severe battle, successfully drive the Union forces out and re-take the town with many prisoners and wounded from both sides.

1860s living history reenacted
Unlike other typical reenactment weekends, the 2010 Living History Weekend takes place among the vintage buildings within Chaplin Creek Village and will feature a wide variety of living history civilian reenactors who portray various residents, craftsmen and artisans. Highlights will include many everyday aspects of life during the 1860’s in the small town of Chaplin Creek Village. This family friendly weekend will also feature our Chaplin Creek Kids who portray young civilians in our historic town. Special activities for children will be available each of the morning

History Comes Alive
In addition to the two battles during the reenactment, living history reenactors will highlight many everyday aspects of life during the 1860s. Activities include: Tours of Chaplin Creek Village and its Historic Buildings; Meet Jerry Kowalski playing General Thomas and Scott Whitney playing General Grant as well as other civilian reenactors; Infantry, Cavalry and Artillery Drills; see the daily battle between Union and Confederate Troops; Visit Union and Confederate campsites and medical tents; Shop with the Sutlers and Food Vendors; Attend a Fashion Show and Ladies Tea Party; Civil War Ball Saturday Evening.

The reenactment takes place Saturday and Sunday June 26st and 27nd at Chaplin Creek Village in Franklin Grove, IL.

Please bring chairs. No dogs or bicycles will be allowed on the grounds.

Chaplin Creek Village founded and supported by the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society, is an evolving, full-scale historical restoration project depicting a prairie settlement typical of the middle 19th century.

For more information including ticket orders, please visit our website at www.chaplincreek.com. Write to us at or call 815-990-5090.