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
With our country now celebrating its Semiquincentennial (250 years), this is an...
Jared L. Olar
March 12, 2026
Continuing our “America 250”-themed recollections of the early history of Tazewell County...
Jared L. Olar
February 12, 2026
Even after control of the Illinois Country passed from France to Britain...
Jared L. Olar
February 5, 2026
On Friday, March 2, at 11 a.m., the Pekin Public Library will...
Jared L. Olar
February 23, 2018
Following the conclusion of George Rogers Clark’s Illinois Campaign in 1779 during...
Jared L. Olar
February 9, 2018
In the course of our survey of the events of history that...
Jared L. Olar
February 2, 2018
On Friday, Feb. 2, at 11 a.m., the Pekin Public Library will...
Jared L. Olar
January 26, 2018
French colonists were the first Europeans to settle in the Illinois Country...
Jared L. Olar
January 20, 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.
