Classic cars, Cow Pie Moo-lette, Ducky Race to highlight Shermerfest
Twenty years ago, on that tragic day of Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, the Northbrook Historical Society was in the midst of one of its busiest years.
The immediate focus was on Shermerfest, the Society's main fundraising event scheduled just five days later on Sunday, Sept. 16. In addition, planning for a variety of activities was continuing during Northbrook's centennial celebration year. Several centennial events already had taken place in June, and more were planned for November leading up to recognition of the Village's actual incorporation date of Nov. 18, 1901.
After much discussion with various Village officials, it was decided to go ahead with the 23rd annual Shermerfest despite the events of Sept. 11. Some residents were critical of the decision to proceed given the anxiety and turmoil across the nation that resulted in so many events - including professional baseball and football games - being canceled that weekend. One critic publicly complained that "Shermerfest is going to be the only thing going on this weekend in the whole world."
Ultimately, the result was reported to be one of the best-attended Shermerfests ever on a beautiful afternoon in Village Green Park. Then-Village President Mark Damisch was quoted as saying: "I think people were ecstatic to be out of the house, not watching television, and being with other human beings."
One highlight of the 2001 Shermerfest was the festival's first classic car show, which attracted a modest 35 or so vehicles. The car show has continued over the past two decades and has become a favorite of a number of local classic vehicle owners. During the past 20 years, the show sometimes has welcomed as many as 125 cars into Village Green park - about as many as that space can hold.
Just like last year, this year's 43rd annual Shermerfest, set for Sunday, Sept. 19, will go on despite being affected by outside events - this time the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. More decisions had to be made about which events to include, and though the festival still will be slimmed down from many previous years, the upcoming Shermerfest will have more to offer than in 2020.
The main attractions will be the 21st Classic Northbrook Car and Truck Show from noon to 4 p.m., Cow Pie Moo-lette at 1:30 p.m., and the Rotary Rubber Ducky Race at 2:30 p.m. There will be live music by the Northbrook School of Music and Beer in the gazebo, a Chalk Up Northbrook drawing activity for children sponsored by the Arts Commission, downtown historic tours at 12:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., and mums for sale.
The History Museum also will be open for tours according to state and local health guidelines. Popcorn and soft drinks will be available along with ice cream from a vintage Good Humor truck.
One new feature of this year's car show will be a CARavan of classic vehicles starting at about 10:30 p.m. from the North Suburban YMCA. The CARavan will wind through the Covenant Living complex, down Western Avenue to Cherry Lane, then under the underpass to Meadow, Milton, Shermer, and Church before following Walters Avenue to the park.
Once all the cars are settled in the park, visitors can vote for their favorites and also view the Historical Society's restored 1926 Reiland & Bree truck.
As always, the Historical Society's goal for Shermerfest is twofold: To raise much-needed funds for operating two buildings ... and equally important, to provide residents with a low-key, enjoyable, family-friendly afternoon in Village Green Park.