A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
This is a revised and expanded version of a “From the Local...
Jared L. Olar
September 23, 2026
This is a revised and updated version of one of our “From...
Jared L. Olar
August 6, 2026
With the United States of America preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday...
Jared L. Olar
January 22, 2026
In recognition of the United States of America turning 250 years old...
Jared L. Olar
January 13, 2026
Adding to the honors conferred on them by the Illinois State Historical...
Jared L. Olar
May 1, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what Christmas celebrations were like in Pekin way...
Jared L. Olar
December 26, 2024
With the end of Pekin’s Bicentennial year fast approaching, this is an...
Jared L. Olar
December 19, 2024
Only 11 months after the founding of Pekin, the survival of the...
Jared L. Olar
December 12, 2024
Our nation this weekend will mark the 82th anniversary of the Empire...
Jared L. Olar
December 5, 2024
The seed from which Pekin grew was the log cabin that pioneer...
Jared L. Olar
November 27, 2024
Among the notables of Pekin’s past is a man whose remarkable career...
Jared L. Olar
November 21, 2024
While Pekin traces its origin to the 1824 arrival of Jonathan Tharp...
Jared L. Olar
November 13, 2024
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.
