First-ever Fete at the Fort October 9
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ The kegs at Fort de Chartres held gunpowder in the 1700s, but a different kind of keg will be in abundance at the French fort on October 9.
The first-ever Fete at the Fort, an afternoon of beer sampling in an authentic 1700s atmosphere, will he held Saturday, October 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fort de Chartres State Historic Site near Prairie du Rocher, Illinois. Admission is $20 at the door, which includes a commemorative glass for the first 1,500 people, with all proceeds going to Save Illinois History, an organization dedicated to preserving Illinois' historic sites. Participants 21 years of age and older may sample some of the finest crafted beers from across the Midwest during the event, which will also feature period entertainment for the entire family.
Participants are advised to sample the brews responsibly and to bring a designated driver if necessary.
Fete at the Fort is sponsored by Save Illinois History; Chick Fritz, Inc; Keil Pharmacy; Weir Chevrolet Buick Pontiac GMC; J. Fires Market Bistro; Jeremy Walker; Standard Refrigeration; Lisa's Restaurant; Moody Health Mart; Southern Illinois Eye Care; Boulevard Brewing Co; Gilster Mary Lee; and the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. Brewers represented include Boulevard Brewing Co.; Anheuser-Busch Companies; Schlafly Beer; Big Muddy Brewing; Magic Hat Brewing Company; Blue Moon; and Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company. For more information visit www.feteatthefort.com or www.saveillinoishistory.com.
Fort de Chartres State Historic Site, administered by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (www.Illinois-History.gov), is located four miles west of Prairie du Rocher and 37 miles south of Belleville. Take Route 3 to Route 155 and follow the signs. For more information call (618) 284-7230, email ftdchart@htc.net, or visit www.ftdechartres.com on the web.