A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
Last week’s placement of a new, permanent sign at Freedom & Remembrance...
Jared L. Olar
March 26, 2026
Historian and author Carl Adams of Maryland, known for his research on...
Jared L. Olar
May 8, 2025
Almost two years after the formal dedication of a memorial park honoring...
Jared L. Olar
April 17, 2025
As Pekin’s Bicentennial Year continues and we now find ourselves in Black...
Jared L. Olar
February 8, 2024
Three special days of honor in Peoria and Pekin this month culminated...
Jared L. Olar
June 19, 2023
With special Juneteenth-related events planned next week that will honor the memory...
Jared L. Olar
June 8, 2023
As we mentioned here a little over two weeks ago, some special...
Jared L. Olar
June 1, 2023
A formal opening ceremony is drawing nearer for a new memorial park...
Jared L. Olar
May 15, 2023
The two Illinois State Historical Markers for the Freedom & Remembrance Memorial...
Jared L. Olar
December 29, 2022
A great deal of progress has been made in the effort to...
Jared L. Olar
November 17, 2022
Earlier this year, another important part of the life of Nance Legins-Costley...
Jared L. Olar
June 23, 2022
This week “From the History Room” will commence a systematic genealogical account...
Jared L. Olar
November 4, 2021
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.
