The Search for Fort Russell
Advertisement
The last MCHS Speaker Series of the season will be held on Sunday, August 9, at 2 p.m. at the Main Street Community Center in Edwardsville. The topic is “The Search for Fort Russell.” For nine years, presenter Don Cook has been focused on finding the location of the fort which disappeared from the landscape nearly 200 years ago.
Fort Russell Township, north of Edwardsville, was named for Fort Russell and is where the fort was located. Sometimes referred to as “Camp Russell,” it was a crucial munitions depot and military post used during the War of 1812. That made it significant to the story of the Illinois Territory and the future State of Illinois. Because the fort was dismantled so soon after the war, its exact location was forgotten.
For nearly a century, people have been searching for it, drawing various conclusions. But now, with modern technology and the discovery of additional maps, Don Cook and his partners, Jeff Pauk and Steve Kromraj, think they are on to something. In his presentation, Cook will talk about the other searches for Fort Russell as well as his own work and conclusions. It’s a fascinating story.
MCHS Speaker Series programs are free and open to the public. A used book sale will be held before and after the program with 100% of proceeds benefiting MCHS. The Main Street Community Center is located at 1003 N. Main Street in Edwardsville.
Fort Russell Township, north of Edwardsville, was named for Fort Russell and is where the fort was located. Sometimes referred to as “Camp Russell,” it was a crucial munitions depot and military post used during the War of 1812. That made it significant to the story of the Illinois Territory and the future State of Illinois. Because the fort was dismantled so soon after the war, its exact location was forgotten.
For nearly a century, people have been searching for it, drawing various conclusions. But now, with modern technology and the discovery of additional maps, Don Cook and his partners, Jeff Pauk and Steve Kromraj, think they are on to something. In his presentation, Cook will talk about the other searches for Fort Russell as well as his own work and conclusions. It’s a fascinating story.
MCHS Speaker Series programs are free and open to the public. A used book sale will be held before and after the program with 100% of proceeds benefiting MCHS. The Main Street Community Center is located at 1003 N. Main Street in Edwardsville.
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
1003 N Main St, Edwardsville, IL 62025-1117, United States
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
Host or PublisherMadison County Historical Society
