Lake County Civil War Days back in 2020 after cancellation

WAUKEGAN, Ill. (AP) - A Civil War reenactment at a northeastern Illinois forest preserve will return next year after being canceled, revived and then canceled a second time in June.

Lake County Forest Preserves commissioners told district staff Monday to plan for the event's return in 2020.

Forest Preserves President Angelo Kyle, who canceled the event that was planned for July 13-14, promised that he would "never again" unilaterally cancel another event.

Kyle said he was concerned about the lack of involvement by African Americans in the event, but has since heard from black Civil War reenactment groups based in Chicago who are interested in participating in Lake County's event.

Past Civil War Days have featured battle re-enactments, actors portraying historical figures, period crafts and games, and military and civilian encampments.