A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
Among the notable men of Pekin’s history, James Michael Haines (1822-1909) was...
Jared L. Olar
September 11, 2025
As we recalled last week, the same year that Pekin voted to...
Jared L. Olar
April 11, 2024
The first 19 years of Pekin’s history cover the period when our...
Jared L. Olar
March 14, 2024
By Jared L. Olar Local History Program Coordinator Here at “From the...
Jared L. Olar
August 3, 2023
As we continue this week with the history of 405 Willow St.,...
Jared L. Olar
March 23, 2023
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
January 28, 2021
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
November 16, 2018
After Illinois achieved statehood, new settlers poured into central Illinois throughout the...
Jared L. Olar
March 2, 2018
All available records indicate that when the founders of Pekin gave their...
Jared L. Olar
July 22, 2016
Here’s a chance to read again one of our old Local History...
Jared L. Olar
November 28, 2015
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.
