A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
In the Pekin Public Library’s Local History room collection is a copy...
Jared L. Olar
May 23, 2024
The first years of Pekin’s existence coincided with a period when men...
Jared L. Olar
April 18, 2024
As we continue this week with the history of 405 Willow St.,...
Jared L. Olar
March 23, 2023
It was three years ago that “From the History Room” presented a...
Jared L. Olar
November 3, 2022
It was a century ago that the Lincoln Circuit Marking Association, led...
Jared L. Olar
March 10, 2022
In her 1902 account of the Pekin Public Library’s early history, Miss...
Jared L. Olar
April 22, 2021
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
January 8, 2021
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
October 15, 2020
Continuing our review of what historical records can tell us of 19th-century...
Jared L. Olar
May 22, 2020
Tazewell County’s westernmost township, Spring Lake Township, is the largest township in...
Jared L. Olar
July 12, 2019
On Friday, Sept. 7, at 11 a.m., in the Pekin Public Library...
Jared L. Olar
August 31, 2018
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.
