A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
While the majority of the military action during the Revolutionary War naturally...
Jared L. Olar
October 8, 2026
Roots of religion in Illinois Before the arrival of European explorers and...
Jared L. Olar
August 27, 2026
In the last few weeks we have recalled how Tazewell County was...
Jared L. Olar
April 2, 2026
After our recalling the story of the creation of Tazewell County last...
Jared L. Olar
March 19, 2026
With our country now celebrating its Semiquincentennial (250 years), this is an...
Jared L. Olar
March 12, 2026
It was less than a decade from the creation of the Illinois...
Jared L. Olar
March 5, 2026
Continuing our “America 250”-themed recollections of the early history of Tazewell County...
Jared L. Olar
February 12, 2026
In recent years, the lives of Nance Legins-Costley (1813-1892) and her family...
Jared L. Olar
August 25, 2022
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.
