Fourth at the Fort returns to Apple River Fort State Historic Site on Friday, July 4, from noon to 2:00 p.m. Celebrate Independence Day with a step back into the 1830s through a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence, patriotic speeches, old-fashioned games, water races, and a chance for visitors to join Captain Stone’s militia. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic or grab takeout from a local Elizabeth restaurant and enjoy an afternoon of history and family-friendly fun at the historic fort.
The Apple River Fort was the site of a battle during the 1832 Black Hawk War. About 45 men, women, and children defended the Fort from Black Hawk and 200 of his warriors. Today, the Fort tells the history of both the settlers and the Sauk and Fox tribes through exhibits, a dramatic interpretive film, and living history special events.
