"Island of the Hiding Place" - this title is the translation of the French phrase "Isle a la Cache." It refers to a time when the French voyageurs traveled down rivers deep into the wild unknowns; a time when the native Potawatomi lived off the land for food, shelter, clothing, and medicine; a time when it was stylish in Europe to wear hats from beaver fur found plentiful in the new land, the Illinois Country. The 18th century was a time of change and the creation of a "Middle Ground" between Europeans and Native Americans.  Learn all about this period in history at Isle a la Cache Museum.

Situated in the Des Plaines River, Isle a la Cache rests on historic land.  Legend tells of a French trader in the late 1600s who, when warned of possible danger down the river, buried or "cached" his goods nearby, using the island as a marker.

Inside the Museum, explore exhibits of the Great Lakes fur trade. Find out about a voyageur's day on the river, examine a real birch bark canoe, and see the trade items of metal, beads, and cloth that changed the Native Americans' lifestyle. Step inside a Native American wigwam where you can play native games or dress up in period clothing. Touch the soft, silky fur of a beaver and realize for yourself why Europeans desired this waterproof coat. All with no admission fee!

School children experience Isle a la Cache as it was 250 years ago as they visit with characters from the past. How many beaver pelts would you give for a metal pot? Children take part in a "trade" to understand the value of items for different cultures.  They also experience Native American life while visiting an 18th-century replica longhouse.

Isle a la Cache Museum was completely renovated in 2007, with enlarged exhibit space and all new interpretive displays, many of which include interactive exhibits.

For most of the year, the island is a relatively quiet and peaceful setting, a good place to fish on the river or take a walk along the trail. In June, however, the scene is dramatically transformed: feasting, playing, and dancing at Island Rendezvous! A spirited celebration, a rendezvous was a gathering of trappers, traders, and travelers at the end of the trading season. As an annual event that has attracted thousands of people for over 20 years, Island Rendezvous includes musket shoots, canoe races, tomahawk throwing contests, and more! Visit with re-enactors, individuals who dress as the French voyageur and Native American people of the 1700s. Wander through their camps and watch demonstrations of their fascinating crafts and skills. Join the celebration and experience Island Rendezvous - as close to time travel as you can get!

In 2011 and 2012, the District is installing pathway lighting at the Museum. View more information about this project.

Photographs Courtesy of Glenn P. Knoblock