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Tavern walking tour explores Dundee history

Do you ever imagine living in the late 1800s?

Local historian and author Phil Aleo will lead the first of three walking tours at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 13, in the downtown Dundee district, which take a peek at this era. Walkers will explore two of the area's most historic and unique buildings, River Lee's and Emmett's Tavern & Brewing Co. This free tour will depart from The Depot at 319 N. River St. in East Dundee and end at Emmett's at 128 W. Main St. in West Dundee.

Along the route, Aleo will paint a vivid picture of what life was like back in the 1800s in an area that drew visionary entrepreneurs, pioneers and religious leaders alike.

Despite the rumblings of the Women's Christian Temperance Union and the beginnings of trends leading to Prohibition, Herman Arndt established a saloon at its present location, now known as River Lee's, in East Dundee by 1896.

Emmett's Tavern & Brewery Co. is located in the Hunt's Block building, built in 1871. Over the decades the Hunt's Block was home to many businesses including a bank, dry goods store, a billiard hall, paint shop and Masonic lodge. In 1998 its present owners purchased the property and converted it into Emmett's.

"It's just a real joy to be able to share a piece of the past with others," Aleo said.

The Dundee Historical Walks are being offered throughout the summer season as part of the Discover Dundee campaign for the downtown district. Topics include The Haeger Mansion on Hill Street and Haeger Potteries on July 11, and Immanuel Lutheran and First Methodist churches on Aug. 8.

The walking tour will be held rain or shine, so bring an umbrella if needed.

At The Depot

Other Saturday activities planned at The Depot include:

• The Fox River Valley Public Library District will present talks on genealogy and how to discover your family history on July 25 and Aug. 22;

• MIR Appraisal Services will be offer antique appraisal faires on June 27 and Sept. 19.

Visitors will also be able to explore the many items for sale at the 26-year-old Depot Market, open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday through Oct. 31, For details, call The Depot at (847) 426-2255 or visit www.eastdundee.net.

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