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
As we continue our Bicentennial series on Pekin’s history, this week we...
Jared L. Olar
March 7, 2024
One of the most prominent of Pekin’s community leaders in the earliest...
Jared L. Olar
July 28, 2022
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.
