March 09, 2025
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Chaplin Creek Muzzleloaders’ open house, pumpkin shoot this weekend in Franklin Grove

By STAFF REPORT
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A largely untouched pumpkin was chosen to receive the wrath of the group, by being shot by all shooters at once during the 2019 event. (Alex T)

FRANKLIN GROVE – A "Pumpkin Shoot" will be one of the activities open to the public at the Chaplin Creek Muzzleloaders’ open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Chaplin Creek Village in Franklin Grove.

There will be a period camp to visit and see how ancestors survived and what implements they used. The Blacksmith shop will be open with demonstrations Saturday and Sunday.

The sixth annual “Pumpkin Shoot” is Sunday at 11:30 a.m.. Pumpkins are grown at the range, harvested and then lined up to see who can make a “face” on the pumpkin.

The public is welcome to come and observe the marksmanship. There will be prizes for the first, second, and third place for the best face shot into the pumpkins.

There will also be a silent auction featuring various primitive paraphernalia, and a 50/50 cash raffle. Items to be auctioned will include period muzzleloading accouterments and other muzzleloading era items.

The 50/50 drawing and the silent auction will be held after the pumpkin shoot, around 1 p.m. Bids may be submitted to mrahk@comcast.net

Masks are required at the events.

The Chaplin Creek Muzzleloaders is a group of local antique and historic gun collectors that call their home Chaplin Creek Village in Franklin Grove.

As a charter member of the The National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association, the Chaplin Creek Muzzle Loaders exist to "promote, support, nurture, and preserve the nation's rich historical heritage in the sport of muzzleloading through recreational, educational, historical, and cultural venues such as match competition, gun making and safety, historical re-enactments, exhibits, museums, libraries, and other related programs".

Live shooting and meeting dates occur throughout the warm months of the year.

The Chaplin Creek Village is located at 1715 Whitney Road, Franklin Grove, Illinois.

For information concerning the Chaplin Creek Muzzleloaders, including becoming a member, email mrahk@comcast.net or call 630-664-6757.