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
For this third in our series of Pekin Bicentennial Black History Month...
Jared L. Olar
February 22, 2024
One of Pekin’s more recent downtown businesses is a café and gift...
Jared L. Olar
October 26, 2023
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
January 8, 2021
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
March 15, 2019
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
November 16, 2018
On Friday, Feb. 2, at 11 a.m., the Pekin Public Library will...
Jared L. Olar
January 26, 2018
Pekin officially has been organized as a city since 1849. That year...
Jared L. Olar
April 14, 2017
Here’s a chance to read again one of our old Local History...
Jared L. Olar
August 12, 2016
Ben C. Allensworth’s 1905 “History of Tazewell County” devotes an entire chapter...
Jared L. Olar
July 21, 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.
