Camp Point, Illinois. On Friday, July 4, the Village of Camp Point will celebrate Adams County’s 200th birthday by taking a trip back in time with a unique Chautauqua-style presentation at historic Bailey Park. Dynamic speakers, live music, historical reenactments, and customary family activities will all be part of the daylong event, which will bring back memories of the Chautauqua assemblies that occupied Bailey Park from 1907 until the early 1930s.
Chautauqua events, which brought communities together for days of inspiration, instruction, and entertainment, were once a mainstay of cultural life in both the US and Canada. One of the biggest meetings of this type in the area used to take place at Bailey Park in Camp Point, and this year it will resound with the same fervor.
As master of ceremonies, Dr. Tim Jacobs opens the event at 10:00 a.m. by impersonating William Jennings Bryan, a well-known orator and presidential contender who appeared at two of Camp Point’s first Chautauquas.
Attendees will take in a wide range of speakers, acts, and activities throughout the day:
- 11 a.m. Tim Good, noted Lincoln historian and author, will present a program on the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.
- Noon Musical performance by The Pike Pipers, a recorder ensemble from Pike County.
- 12:30 p.m. Performance by local favorite band, The Giddy Up and Go Boys.
- 1 p.m. A tribute to Camp Point s founding fathers: Thomas Bailey, Benjamin Booth, William Farlow and Peter B. Garrett.
- 2 p.m. Dr. Curt Fields, nationally recognized Ulysses S. Grant interpreter, will present a compelling program about Grant s time in Illinois.
- 3 p.m. Mike Anderson, The Dulcimer Guy from Jacksonville, will share stories and music played on this unique folk instrument.
- 4 p.m. Traditional baby contest
- 5 p.m. Crowning of Little Miss and Little Mr. Fourth of July
The Shelter House stage in Bailey Park will host all of the events. Along with the entertainment, Dean Huber has put together a unique historical exhibit that showcases images of old houses and establishments that demonstrate Camp Point’s lasting influence.
“This is more than just a Fourth of July celebration; it’s a tribute to our community’s rich history and its place in the larger American story,” stated Bicentennial chairperson Chuck Scholz in a press release.
Bring your family, a lawn chair, and your passion for community and history. The stories, songs, and spirit will vividly recreate those times, even if there won’t be tents like there were during the original Chautauqua days.
