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
In the Pekin Public Library’s Local History room collection is a copy...
Jared L. Olar
May 23, 2024
As Pekin’s Bicentennial Year continues and we now find ourselves in Black...
Jared L. Olar
February 8, 2024
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
December 3, 2020
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
September 25, 2020
Continuing our review of what historical records can tell us of 19th-century...
Jared L. Olar
May 22, 2020
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
November 8, 2019
Here’s a chance to read one of our old Local History Room...
Jared L. Olar
July 19, 2017
Here’s a chance to read again a somewhat revised version of one...
Jared L. Olar
November 4, 2016
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.
