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Take a step back in time at Fort Hill Heritage Museum

The Mundelein Park & Recreation District is marking the 25th anniversary of the Fort Hill Heritage Museum. Beginning Sept. 10, it will host a series of open houses as part of Mundelein Pride week.

This unique, free museum is part of Mundelein Park District and managed by The Historical Society of the Fort Hill Country. It’s tucked away in Lions Field, 601 E. Noel Drive, near downtown Mundelein.

Opening in July 1987, this quaint attraction contains an eclectic mix of hundreds of artifacts that tell a story of Mundelein and Lake County.

Through its exhibits, including the building — an authentic SOO Line Railroad Depot — the public’s understanding of life throughout the years is enhanced, from the area’s agricultural beginnings, schoolhouse days, the role of the railroad, to modern times.

Outside, an 1890s caboose takes center stage, where visitors can get an up-close, exterior view.

“We are excited to have launched our 25th anniversary season. It’s a great time to visit or enjoy a refresher. Visitors often discover hidden gems that they didn’t know were here, or that they didn’t have a chance to see the first time,” said Margaret Resnick, park district director.

“And we couldn’t let this go by without saying thank you to the community for 25 years of support and the great work of The Historical Society of the Fort Hill Country.”

Offerings include a host of exhibits, railroad artifacts, a replica 1900s Lake County schoolhouse, Mundelein’s first fire hose cart, 19th-century quilts, photographs and veterans’ uniforms, fashions from various eras and the oldest item, a 1774 Flintlock musket.

A brochure is available for download at www.mundeleinparks.org/Parks-Facilities/Fort-Hill-Heritage-Museum. asp.

Fort Hill Heritage Museum is open from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays (closed January and February). It hosts visitors of all ages and welcomes students/groups for tours and historical presentations.

Drop-ins are welcome; however, large groups are encouraged to call to arrange a time at (847) 566-8122. Special celebrations, including weeklong open houses, begin Sept. 10.

The Historical Society of the Fort Hill Country is a nonprofit organization of volunteers whose mission is to preserve the history and historical artifacts of Mundelein. Since 1987, it has operated the Fort Hill Heritage Museum.

Meetings are held at Fremont Public Library on Midlothian Road. Call (847) 566-7743 for more information.

A veteran’s uniform is part of the Fort Hill Heritage Museum display. Courtesy of Mundelein Park & Recreation District
An 1890s caboose is on display outside the Fort Hill Heritage Museum in Mundelein. Courtesy of Mundelein Park & Recreation District
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