The Crystal Lake Historical Society will present "Dearly Departed: The Mystery of the Body in the Lake" at the Colonel Palmer House on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 19 and 20.

Tickets must be purchased in advance by phoning 815-455-1151, or online at www.cl-hs.org. Colonel Palmer House is located at 660 E. Route 176 in Crystal Lake.

The script for "Dearly Departed" was written by Sandy Price, and is based upon factual newspaper accounts detailing a major mystery in the 1920s that gave the local townspeople plenty to speculate about.

A body was found floating in Crystal Lake. How did it get there? Who was the victim? Was a crime committed? It was during this time of prohibition that the underworld, corruption, and sale of bootleg alcohol became part of daily life - even in McHenry County.

Become part of the story as you move through the historic home and meet with early 20th century residents as they reveal the facts of the matter. Don't delay, get your tickets right away, said Diana Kenny, president of the Crystal Lake Historical Society.

“We are encouraging people to purchase their tickets immediately. This popular event has sold out the last two years,” she said.

Performances are scheduled to start every 15 minutes from 6 to 8 p.m. both evenings.  Each performance lasts about 45 minutes.

Tickets are $8 for adults, and $5 for seniors (65+) and children under 12.