CAHOKIA, IL – Looking for an alternative to the hustle and bustle of the mall for Christmas shopping?  Searching for that one of a kind gift for that special person?  Stop by Cahokia Courthouse State Historic Site on Saturday, November 26 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for a “Cider Sippin’ Sale.”

 

The event is a perfect opportunity to find that special stocking stuffer, and to enjoy holiday shopping in a historic setting and relaxed atmosphere.  While browsing through the selection of unique gifts, visitors can enjoy a cup of hot cider, talk to interpreters in period clothing, and enjoy the warmth of a roaring fire.

 

Books, postcards, coffee mugs and t-shirts will be among the items for sale.  Decorative fleur-de-lis and pineapple suncatchers and commemorative coins would make perfect ornaments for any tree.  Envelopes and postcards marked with a special U.S. Postal Service pictorial cancellation stamp honoring the bicentennial of Lewis and Clark’s arrival in Cahokia will also be available.

 

Souvenir sales benefit the Jarrot Mansion Project, which supports programming at all historic sites preserved in the old French colonial town of Cahokia.

 

Cahokia Courthouse State Historic Site, administered by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (www.Illinois-History.gov), was built as a residence as early as 1740 and is one of Illinois’ oldest surviving buildings.  It served as a center of political and judicial activity in the Old Northwest Territory from 1790 to 1814.  It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for free public tours.  Cahokia Courthouse is located near the intersection of Highway 157 and Route 3 in Cahokia, Illinois.  Call (618) 332-1782 for more information.