Crystal Lake Historical Society plans Christmas tour

The year is 1860. Abraham Lincoln has just been elected President of the United States. The Palmer Family is preparing to spend its third Christmas in their beautiful new brick home. It is an exciting time in the nation and the newly settled McHenry County.

Join the Crystal Lake Historical Society for "The Night Before Christmas: Dec. 24, 1860" candlelight tour of the Colonel Palmer House, 660 E. Terra Cotta Ave. from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6. The tour depicts a historic Christmas Eve shortly after the home was built by Gustavus and Henrietta Palmer. Actors will portray Palmer family members readying themselves for their Christmas celebration the following day. Music, decorating, food and gifts of the mid-19th century will be featured.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for seniors and children under age 12. Tickets must be purchased in advance by visiting the Crystal Lake Historical Society Web site atcl-hs.org or by calling (815) 455-1151.