Ottawa in LaSalle County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
In Memory of W.R. Foster
Photographed By Richard Whittington, May 13, 2022
1. In Memory of W.R. Foster Marker
Superintendent of LaSalle County schools for 40 years from 1907 to 1947.
Educator, civic leader and man outstanding, able, inspiring, helpful, humorous, and loyal-- who enriched the lives of hundreds of teachers, thousands of children, and many adults through spiritual values and a sound educational program, including direction of 312 rural and village schools, largest number in any county of the United States. Through the improvement of one-teacher schools. He also laid the foundation for our modern consolidated schools of today.
In civic and other fields he initiated, directed or helped to develop the Illinois Valley Chautauqua, our county farm bureau and 4H clubs, the LaSalle County Centennial of 1934, our junior red cross, and the patriotic services of our schools through two world wars.
Erected 1959 by Teachers, friends, and admirers of Mr. Foster.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Education. In addition, it is included in the 4-H Youth Program series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1863.
Location. 41° 20.801′ N, 88° 50.541′ W. Marker is in Ottawa, Illinois, in LaSalle County. Marker is on West Madison
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Lincoln the Litigator (here, next to this marker); Jim Gray's Escape to Freedom (a few steps from this marker); Lasalle County Courthouse (a few steps from this marker); Stephen Douglas (within shouting distance of this marker); Board of Supervisors (within shouting distance of this marker); Abraham Lincoln (within shouting distance of this marker); The Daily Times (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Lincoln Slept Here (about 700 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ottawa.
Photographed By Richard Whittington, May 13, 2022
2. In Memory of W.R. Foster Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on May 24, 2022. It was originally submitted on May 23, 2022, by Richard Whittington of Oglesby, Illinois. This page has been viewed 104 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 23, 2022, by Richard Whittington of Oglesby, Illinois. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
