A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
As we have mentioned here more than once, William H. Bates (1840-1930)...
Jared L. Olar
May 7, 2026
The first 19 years of Pekin’s history cover the period when our...
Jared L. Olar
March 14, 2024
This is a slightly revised version of one of our “From the...
Jared L. Olar
April 27, 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.
From the Archives
Discover your Family's History
Read stories about the people, places, events, landmarks, businesses, and everyday moments that helped shape Pekin’s history.
