West Chicago challenge mixes fitness, history

West Chicago residents can learn about history unique to the city while getting active by participating in the Turner Junction Challenge, created by the West Chicago City Museum and Healthy West Chicago.

Following registration at the City Museum, 132 Main St., or online at wegohistory.com, participants track any physical activity that gets them moving, which in turn translates to time travel. For each 15 minutes of activity, participants travel back in time one year.

The goal is to make it back to 1849 by Sunday, Sept. 10, which would amount to just 2.5 hours of activity a week. The theme for this year's Turner Junction Challenge, named to reflect the community's original name, is "The History of Fires." Participants, known as "turner burners," will reveal the history of the fires in town they travel back in time.

Additional bonus time can be received by visiting the City Museum's CB&Q Depot during open Saturdays for Burner Challenges.

All participants will receive a free water bottle at registration and receive prizes for reaching milestones in West Chicago's history. Participation is free and open to all. Families are welcome to sign up as a group or as individuals.

For information, email info@wegohistory.com or call (630) 231-3376.