A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
With the United States of America preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday...
Jared L. Olar
January 22, 2026
Among the notable men of Pekin’s history, James Michael Haines (1822-1909) was...
Jared L. Olar
September 11, 2025
Recently I was asked to research the history of the residential property...
Jared L. Olar
March 6, 2025
In a previous post here, we looked into the historical accounts and legends...
Jared L. Olar
March 21, 2024
Pekin Mayor Mary Burress will formally inaugurate Pekin’s yearlong calendar of Bicentennial...
Jared L. Olar
January 18, 2024
Before the formal platting and surveying of the little pioneer settlement that...
Jared L. Olar
January 11, 2024
In the summer of 1834, the small pioneer community of Pekin –...
Jared L. Olar
November 2, 2023
One of Pekin’s more recent downtown businesses is a café and gift...
Jared L. Olar
October 26, 2023
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
January 8, 2021
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
March 15, 2019
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
November 16, 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.
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.
