David Shipman

A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.

War

Perhaps the most notable of all the Revolutionary War Patriots who are...

Jared L. Olar

October 22, 2026

For Tazewell County, the Juneteenth holiday during the American Semiquincentennial year of...

Jared L. Olar

June 25, 2026

War

About 80 people gathered at Antioch Cemetery in rural Tazewell County on...

Jared L. Olar

June 4, 2026

War

In keeping with this year’s celebration of the American Semiquicentennial, this month...

Jared L. Olar

May 28, 2026

In recognition of the United States of America turning 250 years old...

Jared L. Olar

January 13, 2026

This week we’ll review the life of Henry Chase (c.1830-1882), who married...

Jared L. Olar

July 27, 2023

Previous articles here at “From the History Room” have told the story...

Jared L. Olar

July 6, 2023

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

In June and July this summer “From the History Room” devoted some...

Jared L. Olar

December 1, 2022

In September 2013 and January 2014, we recalled a dramatic story that...

Jared L. Olar

July 14, 2022

From the Archives

A Closer Look at Pekin’s History

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.