All aboard for ‘Rails and Trails' celebration

FAIRBURY - The history and heritage of Jefferson County will be celebrated the weekend of June 1-3 with the annual Rails and Trails celebration at two historic sites.

Rock Island Rail Days will be held at the historic Rock Island Depot Railroad Museum in Fairbury and Rock Creek Trail Days will be held at Rock Creek Station State Historical Park, site of the McCanles-Wild Bill Hickok shootout in 1861, at 57416 710 Road southeast of Fairbury.

The two events celebrate the impact of transportation on the county and the heritage handed down from early Jefferson County settlers. Events at each site are geared towards hands-on historic demonstrations and exhibits.

Events at the Rock Island Depot Railroad Museum include a model railroad display and swap meet, garage sale, food and music. Free miniature train rides will be given and the museum will be open from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.