FORT MASSAC ENCAMPMENT AT MIETROPOLIS OCT. 21, 22

METROPOLIS, Ill. -- Dates for the annual Fort Massac Encampment at Fort Massac State Park along the Ohio River here will be Oct. 21 and 22.

The two-day event, which attracts thousands of people to Metropolis, will present the area as it was between 1750 and the early 1800s.

French, British, Colonial, Spanish and other re-enactors gather at the annual event. Also participating are buckskinners and traders.

Re-enactors represent different time periods and areas in early Illinois history. Mock battles depict typical warfare between the French, British and Colonial troops.

Working potters, lacemakers, blacksmiths and others will perform their arts.

Massac State Park is the oldest state park in Illinois and is operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.