A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
After the story of Nance Legins-Costley, past Pekin historical works have often...
Jared L. Olar
October 1, 2026
Among Pekin’s pioneer families, one of the earliest to arrive was the...
Jared L. Olar
August 14, 2025
Of Pekin’s remaining historic downtown storefronts, perhaps Hamm’s Furniture’s high-peaked façade at...
Jared L. Olar
March 30, 2024
Ben C. Allensworth’s 1905 “History of Tazewell County” devotes an entire chapter...
Jared L. Olar
July 21, 2015
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.
