Independence Day 1860

Civil War Band Concert and Ice Cream Social to relive 1860s Independence Day

Enjoy free ice cream, tours of the Trobaugh-Good House and a band concert of Civil War era music by the 33rd Regimental Band

The Macon County Conservation District invites everyone to come out for the annual “Independence Day 1860” event to learn how the nation’s birthday was celebrated in the 1800’s from Noon - 4:00pm on Sunday, June 27th at Homestead Prairie Farm located at Rock Springs Conservation Area in Decatur, IL.

“The Independence Day 1860 event is a great opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy the outdoors, learn about history and have some free family fun,” said Brent Wielt, Historic Sites Manager. “Every year we have had a great response. We look forward to welcoming back the 33rd Regimental Band who were last here in 2003.”

Bring your lunch basket to picnic on the lawn at the circa 1860 Homestead Prairie Farm starting at Noon and enjoy a tour of Homestead Prairie Farm until 4:00pm. At 2:00pm there will be a free band concert by the 33rd Regimental Band from Bloomington-Normal. The band portrays a Civil War military band and will feature patriotic songs and American tunes from the 1800s. Free ice cream will be served after the concert.

Admission is free. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Rock Springs bike and hiking trails as well as the Rock Springs Nature Center will be open.

Rock Springs Nature Center is located on the southwestern edge of Decatur. To get to Rock Springs Center from Decatur go south on Route 48 and turn right onto Rock Springs Road. Watch for signs. Plenty of parking is available. Please note --- an alternate route to Rock Springs Nature Center via Wyckles Road from Decatur is closed due to bridge repairs over the Sangamon River. For more information about the event or Macon County Conservation District, contact Brent at (217) 424-7708.