A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
As Pekin prepares to celebrate Juneteenth with two special events on Friday...
Jared L. Olar
June 15, 2023
With special Juneteenth-related events planned next week that will honor the memory...
Jared L. Olar
June 8, 2023
As we mentioned here a little over two weeks ago, some special...
Jared L. Olar
June 1, 2023
A formal opening ceremony is drawing nearer for a new memorial park...
Jared L. Olar
May 15, 2023
The grave of a family member of Nance Legins-Costley now has a...
Jared L. Olar
April 3, 2023
Among Central Illinois’ African-American veterans of the Civil War was Pvt. Edward...
Jared L. Olar
January 19, 2023
Plans are underway for a permanent stone monument in downtown Pekin to...
Jared L. Olar
January 5, 2023
The two Illinois State Historical Markers for the Freedom & Remembrance Memorial...
Jared L. Olar
December 29, 2022
Ongoing research into the history of the African-American Shipman family of Tazewell...
Jared L. Olar
December 15, 2022
In June and July this summer “From the History Room” devoted some...
Jared L. Olar
December 1, 2022
A great deal of progress has been made in the effort to...
Jared L. Olar
November 17, 2022
In recent years, the lives of Nance Legins-Costley (1813-1892) and her family...
Jared L. Olar
August 25, 2022
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.
Explore Your Roots
Discover your Family's History
Read stories about the people, places, events, landmarks, businesses, and everyday moments that helped shape Pekin’s history.
