Past Events

The Society hosts numerous one-time and annual events. 

Candlelight Tours of the Colonel Palmer House were first introduced in December, 2008.  The tours were so successful that this has become an annual event.

"Dearly Departed", which reveals19th century Victorian mourning customs and rituals, was first held in October, 2010 to a sell-out crowd!  The second year of "Dearly Departed" featured a true story from Crystal Lake's past.  Once again, the 2011 production was a sell-out! 

Cemetery Walks were held (2002-2009) at the Lake Avenue Cemetery and Union Cemetery, both located in Crystal Lake.  Costumed interpreters portrayed the life and times of individuals who have shaped our community.  In most cases, a video is available of this portrayal.

In August, 2008 the Crystal Lake Historical Society and Crystal Lake Park District co-hosted a 150th Sesquicentennial Birthday celebration for the Colonel Palmer House.  Food, music, kids activities, wagon rides, heritage demonstrations and tours were just a few of the activities.

In early 2010, two VERY POPULAR programs were recorded to share with out-of-town visitors. Click here to listen to Craig Pfannkuche's program "Murder and Mayhem In and Around Crystal Lake" and Diana Kenney's program "The 1965 Palm Sunday Tornado."

During the summer months, the Crystal Lake Park District and Crystal Lake Historical Society have co-hosted a monthly event called "Summer Sundays."   Each Summer Sunday has focused on various historic themes.