A weekly investigation of the history of Pekin and Tazewell County, including an archive of all blogs going back to 2015.
With our country now celebrating its Semiquincentennial (250 years), this is an...
Jared L. Olar
March 12, 2026
Coming right on the heels of last year’s Pekin Bicentennial celebrations, the...
Jared L. Olar
September 25, 2025
Before the formal platting and surveying of the little pioneer settlement that...
Jared L. Olar
January 11, 2024
This is an updated reprint of a “From the Local History Room”...
Jared L. Olar
June 26, 2020
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
December 27, 2019
Our survey of the unincorporated communities of Tazewell County, with our focus...
Jared L. Olar
September 20, 2019
This is a reprint of a “From the Local History Room” column...
Jared L. Olar
November 7, 2018
After Illinois achieved statehood, new settlers poured into central Illinois throughout the...
Jared L. Olar
March 2, 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.
