A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
It was less than a decade from the creation of the Illinois...
Jared L. Olar
March 5, 2026
Here at “From the History Room,” we have often cited and discussed...
Jared L. Olar
February 26, 2026
During this year of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, it is an opportune time...
Jared L. Olar
February 19, 2026
Continuing our “America 250”-themed recollections of the early history of Tazewell County...
Jared L. Olar
February 12, 2026
Even after control of the Illinois Country passed from France to Britain...
Jared L. Olar
February 5, 2026
With the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln coming up this...
Jared L. Olar
February 3, 2026
Looking back over America’s 250-year history with a more local focus, last...
Jared L. Olar
January 29, 2026
With the United States of America preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday...
Jared L. Olar
January 22, 2026
In recognition of the United States of America turning 250 years old...
Jared L. Olar
January 13, 2026
Recently here at “From the History Room,” we recalled the life of...
Jared L. Olar
January 8, 2026
One of Tazewell County’s early pioneer families were the Beckleys, a Pennsylvania...
Jared L. Olar
January 2, 2026
On 20 Sept. 1847, a ship that had been aptly christened the...
Jared L. Olar
December 26, 2025
From the Archives
Read stories about the people, places, events, landmarks, businesses, and everyday moments that helped shape Pekin’s history. Each article offers a closer look at the community’s past while preserving the local stories and experiences that connect generations.
From the Archives
Discover your Family's History
Read stories about the people, places, events, landmarks, businesses, and everyday moments that helped shape Pekin’s history.
