Delavan

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

August 6, 2026

Our Bicentennial series on the history of Pekin continues this week with...

Jared L. Olar

March 28, 2024

In this week’s installment of this retelling of the story of Betty...

Jared L. Olar

November 22, 2023

On Tuesday, 1 March 1938, Pekin Daily Times readers were met with the...

Jared L. Olar

November 9, 2023

Following up on our recent accounts of how Pekin became an incorporated...

Jared L. Olar

May 25, 2018

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.