Historical society to hold annual dinner

"Tipis, Council Fires and Indians Galore" will be the subject of the Elgin Area Historical Society's annual dinner Nov. 11.

Keynote speaker Clyde Ellis, history professor at Elon University in North Carolina, will discuss the history of Indian lore clubs in the early half of the 20th century.

Elgin was home to the nationally-recognized Hiawatha Pageant for 50 years and the Old Main museum continues to dedicate one of its permanent exhibits to the pageant history.

The fascination with Indian lore clubs continues today in the community. The Big Timber and Kwo-Ne-She dancers perform and yearly reunions are held.

Ellis has interviewed a number of Hiawatha participants for inclusion in his soon-to-be-published book.

Coinciding with the annual dinner is a silent auction that includes items that are vintage and collectible. All proceeds from the auction will support the operation of the Old Main Historical Museum.

The dinner and silent auction begin at noon Nov. 11 at The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way. Attendance is open to the public. Reservations are required.

The cost is $24 for society members and $30 for nonmembers. Reservation deadline is Nov. 2 and can be made by calling (847) 742-4248 or by mailing a check, with name, address and phone number to EAHS, Old Main Museum, 360 Park St., Elgin, IL 60120.

For details, visit www.elginhistory.org.