Attractions

The village of Elizabeth is located in one of the most picturesque areas of Illinois. Visitors will find a diverse business district, an 1800's railroad depot turned into an historical museum, a rested caboose and the opportunity to visit the studios of several artists who live and work in Elizabeth.

The reconstruction of the Apple River Fort on a hillside just north of downtown is important in the history of the village. The Apple River Fort Foundation began work in 1996 after archaeological research in 1995 uncovered the exact location of the fort and numerous artifacts. Rebuilt by volunteers from seven states, the fort is on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1832 for protection against hostile Indians. On June 24 of that year Black Hawk did attack; there were about 45 men, women and children in the fort including the "three Elizabeths" who supported the men by molding musket balls and loading weapons. An interpretive center, now under construction, will be open in the fall of 1998.

Special events throughout the year include Spring Fling, the Elizabeth Community Fair, Christmas in the Village, and a variety of church dinners and bazaars.

Special Events

Dec. 5: Elizabeth Christmas Walk, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., downtown Main St. The village of Elizabeth opens it's heart with an old fashioned Christmas walk. Christmas themed events, 50/50 drawing, in-stores specials and more. Details: 815-858-2028.

Parks

* Long Hollow Tower and Scenic Overlook, west on U.S. 20, with picnic tables, shelters, rest rooms, lookout tower.

* Tapley Woods Wayside is west on U.S. 20 with picnic tables, drinking water.

Camping

* Hanover - Blanding's Landing Recreation Area, U.S. Corps of Engineers, South River Road, is on the Mississippi River between Hanover and Galena, with 37 campsites on 18 acres, electrical hookups, showers, toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, playground, fish-cleaning tables, public boat ramp. Cost: $10 with electricity; $8 without electricity. Open early May through late October. Call 815/591-2326 in season, 7-10 p.m.