History

A Total Solar Eclipse Will Be Visible Above Illinois This Spring

Take A Stroll Through Illinois’ Past At This Historic Farm Outside Chicago

UFOs Were Sighted In Illinois 19 Years Ago And It’s One Of The Most Credible UFO Sightings In History

The Fascinating Archaeological Discovery That Put This Small Illinois College On The Map

A mammoth tusk over 10,000 years old was discovered at Principia College in Illinois.

A Cluster Of Tornadoes Touched Down In The Chicago Area, Including O’Hare International Airport

Eleven tornadoes touched down in the Chicago suburbs on July 12, 2023, causing significant damage and historical significance.

The Oldest Building In Illinois Was Used By Lewis And Clark, Dismantled, Displayed At World’s Fairs, And Reconstructed In Its Original Site

The Old Cahokia Courthouse, built between 1737-1740, is the oldest building in Illinois and has a rich history as a private home, courthouse, and political center.

Incredible 1950s Footage Gives A Glimpse Into The Past At Chicago’s Former Theme Park

Riverview Park in Chicago, a historic amusement park, is brought to life through archival footage showcasing its attractions and significance.

10 Surprising Firsts That Illinois Can Proudly Claim

Between the first skyscraper, household appliances, and modern medicine, the Prairie State is truly a trailblazer in these ways.

Some People Don’t Know That Chicago Was The First To Do These 11 Things

Chicago is the birthplace of many significant inventions, including the vacuum cleaner, skyscraper, and Ferris Wheel.

Few People Know Illinois Was The First State To Ratify The 13th Amendment In America

Illinois played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery in the United States, being the first state to ratify the 13th Amendment.

The Terrifying, Deadly Plane Crash In Illinois That Will Never Be Forgotten

The deadliest plane crash in American history occurred at O'Hare International Airport in 1979, killing all 271 people on board and two on the ground.

This Overnight Ghost Hunt In Illinois Is The Creepiest Thing You’ll Ever Do

Back In The Day, This Quiet Illinois Town Was A Mafia Mecca

Stickney, Illinois, a small village near Chicago, has a rich mafia history involving Al Capone and his brother Ralph, who ran illegal trades there during the Prohibition Era.

Once Abandoned And Left To Decay, The Edgewater Medical Center In Illinois Has Been Restored To Its Former Glory

The former Edgewater Hospital in Chicago has been transformed into modern apartments called Anderson Point.

We Bet You Didn’t Know This Small Town In Illinois Was Home To The Sole U.S. Presidential Birthplace In The State

Ronald Reagan's birthplace in Tampico, Illinois, is the only U.S. presidential birthplace in the state and is now a museum.

It’s Impossible To Forget These 3 Horrific Winter Storms That Have Gone Down In Illinois History

Highlights some of the most memorable and severe winter storms in Illinois history.

The Oldest Covered Bridge In Illinois Has Been Around Since 1863

The Red Covered Bridge in Princeton, Illinois, is the oldest and longest covered bridge in the state, offering scenic views and historic significance.

A Visit To The 4 Most Historic Illinois Towns Is Like Going Back In Time

Explore four historic towns in Illinois, each offering unique architectural and historical landmarks.

The One Small Town In Illinois With More Historic Buildings Than Any Other

The Massive Earthwork In Illinois That Still Baffles Archaeologists To This Day

Once The Tallest Building In America, Illinois’ Sears Tower Was A True Feat Of Engineering

Willis Tower in Chicago, formerly known as Sears Tower, was once the tallest building in the world and offers breathtaking views from its Skydeck and The Ledge.

A Church Was Built And Left To Decay In The Middle Of Illinois’ Largest City

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church ruins in Chicago offer a glimpse into the past with its restored facade and bell tower.

There’s Only One Train Station Like This In All Of Illinois And It’s Magnificent

Chicago Union Station, an iconic and historic train station in Illinois, is renowned for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and bustling activity.

The History Behind Illinois’ Alley Of Death Is Absolutely Heartbreaking

The Alley of Death in Chicago, also known as Couch Place, is infamous for a tragic theatre fire in 1903 that resulted in over 600 deaths.

Illinois’ Stolp Island Has More Than 40 Historic Buildings Of Architectural Significance

Stolp Island in Aurora, Illinois, is a historically significant area with 41 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

11 Historic Photos That Show Us What It Was Like Living In Illinois In The Early 1900s

Historic photos from Illinois provide a glimpse into life a century ago, showcasing significant moments and everyday scenes.

These 14 Candid Photos Show What Life Was Like In Illinois In The 1920s

A collection of 14 antique photographs from the 1920s in Illinois showcases the simplicity and historical significance of life during that era.

With Over 3,500 Historic Buildings, The City Of Quincy Has Some Of The Best-Preserved Architecture In Illinois

Quincy, Illinois, offers a rich architectural heritage with over 3,500 historic structures and four National Historic Register Districts.

Few People Know That Illinois Is The Birthplace Of Raggedy Ann and Andy, The Original Toys That Come To Life At Night

Raggedy Ann and Andy were created by Johnny Gruelle in Arcola, Illinois, making the state their official birthplace.

Be Transported To Another Era With These Photos Of The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition In Illinois

The World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago was a grand event that showcased new inventions, cultural exhibits, and architectural marvels, attracting over 27 million visitors.

One Of The U.S.’s First Planned Communities, Riverside, Is Right Here In Illinois And Full Of History

Riverside, a Chicago suburb, is the first planned community in the U.S., designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and featuring notable architecture.

The Longest Tunnel In Illinois Has A Truly Fascinating Backstory

The Winston Tunnel, once the longest railroad tunnel in Illinois, is now a historic hiking destination in Galena.

Visit Hovey’s Diner, The Small Town Diner In Illinois That’s Been Around Since The 1950s

Hovey’s Diner in Olney, Illinois, offers a nostalgic dining experience with an extensive menu and event space.

Take A Tour Of The Colorful Garden At The Historic David Davis Mansion In Illinois

The David Davis Mansion in Bloomington, Illinois, features a stunning garden and offers historic tours showcasing mid-Victorian architecture and artifacts.

5 Places Abraham Lincoln Lived In Illinois That Might Surprise You

Abraham Lincoln's homes in Illinois are significant landmarks, each with its own unique history.