A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
This week we’ll continue with our review of the names of the...
Jared L. Olar
April 9, 2026
Looking back over America’s 250-year history with a more local focus, last...
Jared L. Olar
January 29, 2026
With the United States of America preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday...
Jared L. Olar
January 22, 2026
Around the time white settlers began flooding into Tazewell County in the 1820s,...
Jared L. Olar
October 5, 2022
Previously in this column, we reviewed the period from the early 1600s...
Jared L. Olar
December 29, 2017
When French missionaries and explorers first came to the Illinois Country in...
Jared L. Olar
December 22, 2017
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.
