I traveled to Fort de Chartres, near Prairie Du Rocher, Illinois to attend a Trade Fair that depicted period costume and items for sale that were common in the Illinois country from the 1750’s to 1790’s. Fort de Chartres is a beautiful reproduction of an actual old fort. The original stone fort was built by the French in 1753; it replaced several previous wooden forts. The current structure was rebuilt section by section over the years, and was made a National Historic Landmark in 1960.
The weather was a bit chilly, but continued to warm as the day went on. Normally, I try to dress up in period costume for these events, but this time I didn’t. There were about 20-25 traders, selling their wares, and I checked out all of them trying to find new items to add to my personae, or neat do dads for the home, camp or outdoor life. I ended up buying a French Voyageurs knit cap, a scarf, and an old time looking map that I plan to frame and hang on the wall. The map details 1700-1800’s French America from St. Louis down to a little past St. Genevieve on the Missouri side, and depicting Cahokia, down to Old Kaskaskia on the Illinois side. I love maps.
After leaving the event I decided to travel over to Baldwin Lake, near Baldwin, Illinois. I had seen that there was a trail there inside of the Kaskaskia River Wildlife Refuge. I like trying new places to hike and I wanted to find the trail head so I could come back and hike when it was less muddy.
On the way to Lake Baldwin, I passed through Red Bud, Illinois; where I saw they had done a lot of work to their downtown area. There were several good looking places to eat, so I decided to stop and have lunch. First, I checked out an organic health food store called ‘The Healthy Nut” on Main Street. I’m always pleased to see these types of stores popping up.
Next, I walked across the street to the Opera House Bistro. When I entered I noticed that it was very clean and well done. I walked in and found a place to sit along a wall in a kind of half booth/half table section, and started reading a book. When you’re dining alone, it helps to read a book. This time I was reading “Tales and Trails of Illinois” a history book by Stu Fliege.
The waitress came quickly and took my order. Lamb Gyro with fries and warm German Potato Salad. If you read many of my restaurant reviews you’ll find I always try the potato salad. I sat reading and listening to the music that was playing. It was some modern pop music that was very easy to listen to and reminded me of a girl I knew, and how I wished she was there with me. Isn’t it strange how music and smells can transport us through time and space, bringing back memories?
The food was excellent, and I decided to order desert, which I don’t normally do because I’m trying to be healthier. But, when you’re dining in a classy place it makes you want to splurge and live a little. The desert was called “The Whatchamacallit” and it was a crunchy brownie with ice cream, fudge and sprinkles. It was quite good, and brought a smile to my face.
After eating I paid the bill which was very reasonable and went up stairs to the museum; where an older gentleman took me around room by room showing me the things of a by-gone era. Normally, I don’t like guided tours; I don’t like feeling as though I’m being forced to talk to somebody. I prefer to do my business and leave. But, the guy did an excellent job. He was very knowledgeable and I was glad to have him along on my walk through.
After leaving the Bistro I drove up to Baldwin Lake. Actually, I missed my turn just past the power plant and went all the way to the next town, New Athens. I asked for directions, which I’m not too proud to do, and went back to where I should have been. Only to discover that the trail I wanted to hike was closed. I looked for a Ranger, but he was mowing, so I decided to mark this trail off my list because the sign looked pretty permanent.
Overall, it was a great day and a great meal at the Opera House Bistro. I will put it on my list as a place to visit in the future.
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