A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
This is a revised and updated version of one of our “From...
Jared L. Olar
July 23, 2026
In reviewing Pekin’s 1876 U.S. Centennial celebrations last week, we examined what...
Jared L. Olar
July 9, 2026
The formation and naming of Illinois’ 102 counties, which we have been...
Jared L. Olar
April 16, 2026
Last week’s placement of a new, permanent sign at Freedom & Remembrance...
Jared L. Olar
March 26, 2026
During this year of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, it is an opportune time...
Jared L. Olar
February 19, 2026
With the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln coming up this...
Jared L. Olar
February 3, 2026
One of Pekin’s oldest churches is preparing to celebrate its 175th anniversary...
Jared L. Olar
October 2, 2025
Coming right on the heels of last year’s Pekin Bicentennial celebrations, the...
Jared L. Olar
September 25, 2025
Among the notable men of Pekin’s history, James Michael Haines (1822-1909) was...
Jared L. Olar
September 11, 2025
Historian and author Carl Adams of Maryland, known for his research on...
Jared L. Olar
May 8, 2025
Almost two years after the formal dedication of a memorial park honoring...
Jared L. Olar
April 17, 2025
With the 2024 General Election just days away, this is an opportune...
Jared L. Olar
November 1, 2024
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.
