Explore Waukegan’s rich history with two free walking tours

The Waukegan History Museum of the Waukegan Park District and the Waukegan Historical Society has two upcoming free guided walking tours that showcase the rich history of Waukegan.

On the Saturday, Aug. 10, walking tour, “Waukegan’s Civil War Sites,” tour goers will focus on the history of Waukegan relating to the time of the Civil War (1861-1865) while walking the streets of the downtown area. The reactions to the start of the war, local war efforts, famous local soldiers, as well as events leading up to the war, including the Underground Railroad and Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Waukegan, will be highlighted throughout the tour.

This free guided walking tour starts promptly at 9:30 a.m. at the Waukegan Park District’s Veterans Memorial Plaza on the southwest corner of Washington Street and West Street in Washington Park. The tour lasts approximately one hour.

The Saturday, Aug. 17, walking tour, “Discover Bowen Park,” will highlight the history of Bowen Park while experiencing its beauty. This tour is great for families, and it starts outside of the Waukegan History Museum, 1917 N. Sheridan Road in Bowen Park, and concludes with a tour of Lilac Cottage. This free guided walking tour lasts approximately one hour and it includes hills, trails and uneven ground.

For all walking tours, dress accordingly with comfortable walking shoes and also bring something to drink. Tours will be canceled if raining or other inclement weather.

To register for these free guided walking tours, call the Waukegan Park District Jack Benny Center for the Arts at (847) 360-4740. The Jack Benny Center is at 39 Jack Benny Drive in Bowen Park. Register online at www.waukeganparks.org.