Cantigny offers free admission on McCormick Day

Cantigny Park will commemorate the birthday of its benefactor, Col. Robert R. McCormick, with a day of art activities, a living history performance, golf games and a "pop-up" First Division Museum.

McCormick Day is Cantigny's annual gift to the community - parking, activities and birthday treats (while supplies last) are free. Festivities are planned from noon to 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 27, at 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

McCormick, former editor and publisher of the Chicago Tribune, was born July 30, 1880. He lived on the 500-acre country estate from 1920 until his death in 1955. His will designated Cantigny as a public park for education and recreation. On McCormick Day, Cantigny remembers the Colonel's life as a gentleman farmer, First Division soldier, public servant and media industry innovator.

This year's celebration will appeal in particular to those who appreciate art and kids who enjoy craft projects. Amy McCormick, Robert's first wife, was a talented artist, and visitors to McCormick House can see her work. On McCormick Day, the museum will host an open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Scheduled activities beginning at noon include rock art creations, Arts in Bartlett Japanese doll making, 3-D art, ClaySpace Ceramic Arts Center hands-on activity, SCARCE recycled paper making, and watercolor and tempera art.

Other activities include a Monster Mural from 1 to 4 p.m., Cantigny Golf until 4 p.m., Amy McCormick living history performance by Ellie Carlson at 2:30 p.m., wreath-laying ceremony honoring Robert R. McCormick by American Legion Cantigny Post 556 at 3 p.m., and birthday cake cutting with Amy McCormick at 3:30 p.m.

The grand reopening of the First Division Museum is not until Saturday, Aug. 26, but on McCormick Day the staff invites visitors to participate in a "pop up museum."

The temporary exhibit in the Cantigny Visitors Center will consist of items donated for the day by the community. The theme is "Your Military History." Veterans and civilians alike are asked to bring a photograph, object or story for the display. For details, visit fdmuseum.org.

Cantigny Park is open daily during the summer from 7 a.m. to dusk. A complete schedule of concerts, workshops and special events is available at cantigny.org.