Events held at Chaplin

Historic reenactments, including Revolutionary War and World War II events, bring the past to life with encampments, demonstrations, and interactive learning experiences.

LIBERATION OF ROME
BREAKOUT FROM ANZIO
WWII PUBLIC BATTLE REENACTMENT
AND ENCAMPMENT
MAY 15, 16, 17, 2026

“Thank you” to  WWII sponsors: Franklin Grove Winifred Knox Memorial Library, WLS AM 890 Radio, Casey’s, Crest Foods, 1st National Bank in Amboy, Martin & Company, Northwest Illinois Tourism Spark Grant, Atkinson Trucking, Rooney’s, Shaw Media, A & W Heating & Cooling, and Pacer Tree Service, Donations are still being accepted and remember the event is May 16th and 17th 2026, Chaplin Creek Village, Franklin Grove.

We welcome you to attend our Event that will be held at the Chaplin Creek Historic Village site located at 1715 Whitney Road in Franklin Grove, Illinois 61031.

For Questions Contact Event P.O.C.

Richard A. Russo 5th Kompanie GrossDeutschland

1-847-254-8826 Vizsla25@sbcglobal.net

May 15th, 16th 17th 2026

Admission fee each day: Children under 5 Free. ages 6-12=$5.00, 13-Adult =$10.00, Seniors citizen 65 yrs. and Veterans with proof of service, = $5.00.

Parking for Disabled veterans on site, golf carts and side by side can be brought on site with 3mph speed limit and $5.00 fee.

No general public parking on site, General parking available; $5.00 parking and shuttle to event, 318 E. South St. old high school site. also parking on public streets is free.

May 15th private viewing for area junior high school students.

May 16th Grounds open 9am first battle 11:30,   3:15 special event, Senator Li Arellano, Jr will be presenting a Certificate of Recognition signed by the Illinois State Senate and the 104th General Assembly to Willard Simpson for his service in World War II. Willard (who is currently 101 yrs old) was a Combat Engineer, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, witnessed the bombing of Berlin, helped liberate the Jews from concentration camps, and served under General George S. Patton in the 28th Division, also known as the Bloody Bucket by the German soldiers. Mr. Simpson is a long-time resident of the Franklin Grove, Il area.  We are proud to Honor him and recognize his service to the nation during this 250th Anniversary year of our country.

second battle 3:30, show ends at 4:00

May 17th Grounds open 9am, first Battle 11:30, second battle 3:30 show ends 4:00

Seasonal events like the Summer Harvest Festival and patriotic celebrations, including the Reading of the Declaration of Independence, offer food, entertainment, family-friendly fun, and popular attractions such as the Big Rig Show.

Upcoming plans include rebuilding the wooden fence, restoring the Kelly House interior and upstairs, reconstructing a building into a nondenominational church, and hosting future events such as a WWII reenactment, music festivals, and a community 5K run.

Local artisans and vendors showcase their goods, creating lively marketplaces for the community while helping fund restoration projects.

Hands-on learning experiences, school tours, and interactive demonstrations provide opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore history, nature, and early life on the Illinois prairie.

The Scott Barn and select areas of the property are available for weddings, anniversaries, and private gatherings. Members can enjoy discounted rates, and each event supports the preservation of our historic site.