A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
Four years ago, “From the History Room” shone the spotlight on William...
Jared L. Olar
June 15, 2019
In an essay entitled, “The Educational Value of ‘News,’” published in the...
Jared L. Olar
April 20, 2019
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
January 11, 2019
This is a revised version of a “From the Local History Room”...
Jared L. Olar
August 17, 2018
Not even two whole generations had elapsed since Illinois’ admission as the...
Jared L. Olar
August 9, 2018
This is a revised version of a “From the Local History Room”...
Jared L. Olar
July 27, 2018
This is a slightly revised version of one of our “From the...
Jared L. Olar
June 8, 2018
Previously in our ongoing Illinois Bicentennial series, we saw how the controversy...
Jared L. Olar
June 1, 2018
A total of 84 Illinois counties were organized from 1790 (when Illinois...
Jared L. Olar
April 6, 2018
Last week we recalled President Herbert Hoover’s brief whistle stop in Pekin...
Jared L. Olar
March 3, 2017
The Local History Room at the Pekin Public Library currently features a...
Jared L. Olar
January 25, 2017
During the summer, this column took the opportunity to feature a number...
Jared L. Olar
October 7, 2016
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.
