A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
Roots of religion in Illinois Before the arrival of European explorers and...
Jared L. Olar
August 27, 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
While Pekin traces its origin to the 1824 arrival of Jonathan Tharp...
Jared L. Olar
November 13, 2024
This week we conclude our series on Pekin’s 1924 Centennial Celebration with...
Jared L. Olar
September 26, 2024
Around the time white settlers began flooding into Tazewell County in the 1820s,...
Jared L. Olar
October 5, 2022
As previously noted in this column, the city of Pekin was established...
Jared L. Olar
June 22, 2018
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.
