History Brought to Life at Galesburg’s 30th Annual Heritage Days
The Forgottonia Times™ Report
All photos courtesy of Lisa Bernhart, secretary and treasurer of Galesburg Heritage Days
Beside the beautiful waters of Lake Storey Park, the past comes alive all over again. Now in its 30th year, Galesburg Heritage Days has grown into one of the Midwest's largest living history events, drawing hundreds of reenactors, artisans, and demonstrators for a weekend that transports thousands of visitors back to two defining eras of American history. The event, held August 15th-17th this year, remains entirely free to the public, including parking.
Split across two immersive venues, Heritage Days showcases both an Early American Rendezvous Camp (pre-1840) and a meticulously staged Civil War military encampment covering 1860-1865. Galesburg's Heritage Days started with just a handful of Civil War reenactors at the Browning Mansion, and has now grown to host thousands of visitors, with both camps full every year.
Friday kicks off the event-filled weekend with an educational day for school groups, drawing over 500 local fifth graders and homeschool families to explore 25+ learning stations—rope-making, wool-spinning, food preservation, and more. "The teachers tell us that this is the perfect beginning to their school year," shared Lisa Bernhart, Heritage Day's Secretary and Treasurer.
The weekend is packed with demonstrations, performances, hands-on learning, and plenty of goods to purchase. On the rendezvous side, guests will encounter historical skits, native villages, a candy cannon for children, and live music. The Civil War side offers battlefield reenactments, medical tents, and an enjoyable camp dance on Saturday night—open to all, no period attire or experience necessary.
This year's highlights include the return of the Lewis & Clark Fife and Drum Corps (Saturday only) and new vendors offering period-appropriate goods. "We feel that it is important that we teach real history, not Hollywood made-up stuff," Bernhart emphasized. "We show the people, the tools, the skills, the weaponry, that it took just to survive back then. No modern conveniences…"
Heritage Days also provides a substantial economic lift for Galesburg, filling hotels and campgrounds for nearly a week. But for organizers like Bernhart, the greatest reward is simpler: "When the families leave with smiles on their faces … and they say they can't wait until next year, it makes it all worthwhile!"
