John Huston Finley was born on a farm east of Grand Ridge and attended Grand
Ridge Elementary School. He graduated from Ottawa High School as valedictorian in
1882, and earned his undergraduate degree at Knox College in 1887. He went on to
Johns . . . — — Map (db m239246) HM
Dr. Paul Carus
Born July 18, 1852, Ilsenburg in Harz, Germany
Died February 11, 1919, LaSalle, Illinois
Dr. Paul Carus, who lived and worked at 1307 7th St, LaSalle, Illinois, was editor of the Open Court Publishing Company & The Open . . . — — Map (db m65300) HM
has been designated a
National Historic Landmark
This home possesses national significance because
of its architect, W. W. Boyington; its interior designer,
August Fiedler; and as the birthplace of Open Court
Publishing Company, an . . . — — Map (db m185188) HM
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Made possible by a challenge grant from the
Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust — — Map (db m185187) HM
The story of the twin cities of LaSalle and Peru is closely interwoven with the history of the Illinois River and the Illinois and Michigan Canal. In 1673, Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet passed through this area by way of the Illinois River . . . — — Map (db m51066) HM
In 1906, Mayor Walter A. Panneck sold 450 city hall bonds to help raise the $75,000 needed to build a new city hall. Designed by local architect Victor A. Matteson and built by M.W. Allen & Sons from Peoria and J.M. Dougherty from Ottawa, the . . . — — Map (db m65301) HM
Philanthropist - Pioneer Abolitionist - Publisher - Census of Universal Emancipation, Fore-Runner of "Western Citizen" now "Chicago Tribune". He Gave His Life and Fortune For Freedom — — Map (db m197995) HM
William Seeley, who came to LaSalle County in 1828, platted the town of Lowell. A church was built in 1851 serving Anglicans, Baptists, Congregationalists and Methodists. In 1856, in fulfillment of their having built a place of worship, he deeded . . . — — Map (db m197821) HM
In memory of those who gave the supreme sacrifice
for their country from the Marseilles, IL area
Civil War 1861-1865
First Illinois Light Artillery Asbury Smith
11th Illinois Infantry Regiment James Anderson • George . . . — — Map (db m239344) WM
In memory of those who gave the supreme sacrifice
for their country from the Marseilles, IL area
World War I
Edwin Prichard
World War II
Charles Arnold •
Ernest Atchley •
Wayne Berta •
Charles Brinkman •
Charles Ashton . . . — — Map (db m239340) WM
[Center]
In memory of
the men and women
of the community
who served their
country
to assure the
American ideals
of liberty
[Left wing] They have not sacrificed in vain if we
[Right wing] continue to protect . . . — — Map (db m239348) WM
On July 19, 1932, unemployed workers marched toward the Marseilles
Dam, which was using out-of-state workers for a major project. As the
local workers reached the site, gunfire exploded from the dam site. 21
protesting workers were wounded and . . . — — Map (db m239352) HM
When the Civil War began
in 1861, while James Sanborn
was a farmer near Marseilles. He
enlisted in Company K of the
39th Illinois Volunteer Infantry.
In 1863 while Sanborn was
waiting for the steamer to go
home on furlough from
South . . . — — Map (db m239343) HM
In 1932 the national economic crisis of the Great Depression was still
growing. Workers had no legal right to organize unions, and had little
power individually to prevent lowering standards of living, but an
unemployed movement had formed. Near . . . — — Map (db m239351) HM
In 1853 two railroads met near this spot and the community of
Mendota was born. Mendota is an Indian word said to mean
"crossing of the trails." The Chicago & Aurora Railroad planned
to expand southwest from Aurora to meet the Illinois . . . — — Map (db m192401) HM
This one room schoolhouse was originally established as District One in a deed notarized by Horace D. Hickok, brother of "Wild Bill" Hickok on August 8, 1865. It was later referred to as the Aitken School after John Malcolm Aitken, a stalwart friend . . . — — Map (db m185193) HM
This stone building was a warehouse on the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which was completed in 1848. The building was constructed one year later by James Clark, a resident of Utica. Before the advent of the railroads the canal was the main . . . — — Map (db m185195) HM
[Front]
Born at Laon France June 1 1637 he died near
Ludington Michigan May 18 1675
Devoted missioner and heroic priest-explorer
he offered the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass near
this spot Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday 1675
and . . . — — Map (db m185190) HM
A tornado, with little warning of its violent fury, struck downtown Utica on April 20, 2004. Nine persons perished in its aftermath, with eight of those in the Milestone Tavern. Nine people were rescued. Many homes and buildings were damaged or . . . — — Map (db m185192) HM
Prior to the 20th century, the Illinois River was shallow and much of it was not navigable. The Illinois & Michigan (I&M) Canal was built in 1848 to connect Lake Michigan to the navigable part of the Illinois River, thereby connecting this part of . . . — — Map (db m207608) HM
In 1933 the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the core of Starved Rock Lodge — the lobby, dining room, kitchen and cabins for a cost of $200,000. Also they constructed many of the structures - bridges, shelters, and the trails you see today. . . . — — Map (db m185000) HM
A memorial to Brigadier-General Casimir Pulaski
Revolutionary War-hero father of
American cavalry on the 150th
anniversary of his death
Born in Poland in 1748. At the age of 25, had achieved a European reputation as first-class military . . . — — Map (db m213622) HM WM
Presented by the Ladies of the Grand Army of the Republic Department of Illinois. 1861-5 — 1914 Ida E. Wright President Commemorating the Deeds of the Union Veterans of the Civil War ————— ”With malice toward none with charity for all” Lincoln . . . — — Map (db m213925) WM
Named after Henry Cox, farmer and jeweler, who donated the land.
A one room, one teacher school stood on this corner until 1976. Teachers served the surrounding community in the school until 1954.
Dedicated to Blanche Maher, (1943 until 1954), the . . . — — Map (db m191419) HM
Archaeological excavations by the State of Illinois and the University of Chicago have shown Starved Rock the site of the first permanent fortress in the Illinois country. Erected 1682-1683 by La Salle and his Lieutenant Tonti. — — Map (db m207611) HM
On the eminence to the southwest stood Fort Wilbourn, where the Third Army of Illinois volunteers was mustered in for service in the Black Hawk War. Here on June 16, 1832 Abraham Lincoln enlisted as a private in Jacob M. Early's company, his third . . . — — Map (db m184997) HM
In honor of those who served in World War II and in Korea and in Southeast Asia in everlasting memory of those who paid the supreme sacrifice
Alfonso Bassetti • Frank Bovee • Ralph Boyd • Cody Calkins • Leroy Carbine • Barrett Corneille • Charles . . . — — Map (db m213442) WM
Memorial
dedicated to the soldiers and sailors of Oglesby Illinois who offered their service and lives at the nation's call in the Great World War — 1914-1918
(Star denotes killed in action)
Roll of Honor
Thomas Allen • Thomas . . . — — Map (db m213435) WM
Korean War
Not forgotten
Honoring veterans of Korean War who lived in and left from Oglesby, Piety Hill and Jonesville and served between the dates of June 25, 1950 – July 27, 1953
Argubright, Thomas • Baima, Donald • Baima, Martin • . . . — — Map (db m213443) WM
Our cause was just
Honoring those who lived in and left from Oglesby, Piety Hill and Jonesville and served between Feb. 28, 1961 and May 7, 1975.
* Denotes killed in action
Allen, Brian A. • Angelo, Frank C. • Arboit, Terry J. • . . . — — Map (db m213355) WM
Honoring veterans of World War II who lived in and left from Oglesby, Piety Hill, and Jonesville, between the dates of Dec. 7, 1941 – Sept. 2, 1945
Aimone, Donald •
Akucka, Lawrence •
Allen, Albert H. •
Amadon, Joseph •
Ambrose, Charles . . . — — Map (db m213535) WM
La Salle was a man of vision and courage. He established contact with Native Americans and brought European culture to this area, while acting as a peacemaker in his actions with local Indian peoples. His explorations were responsible for expansion . . . — — Map (db m207606) HM
38 ► Illinois, LaSalle County, Oglesby — The Legend of Starved Rock — A story that has captured and will continue to capture imaginations of visitors for generations — You are now standing 125 feet above the Illinois River on the bluff known as Starved Rock —
Odawa (Ottawa) war chief Pontiac was said to have been murdered by an Illinois tribe member during a council meeting in today's Joliet. Seeking revenge, the Odawa and Potawatomi attacked the Illinois village near Starved Rock.
The Illinois . . . — — Map (db m207609) HM
This plaque is placed in memory of the Patriots who gave their lives for their country. Soldiers of the American Revolution, and soldiers and sailors of the War of 1812.
Original flag staff and plaque dedicated September 6, 1913
by
The . . . — — Map (db m207607) WM
Established as The Constitutionalist in 1844
The ninth oldest daily newspaper in the State of Illinois
Member
Small Newspaper Group, Inc.
With other publications in: Kankakee, Illinois; Moline, Illinois;
LaPorte, Indiana; Rock . . . — — Map (db m185044) HM
In honor of Abraham Lincoln who practiced law 1851 to 1859 before the Supreme Court of Illinois at its sessions that held in the old LaSalle County Court House on this site. Erected by the Illini Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution 1922 — — Map (db m200089) HM
In honor of the pioneers who, on May 27 1850, took over direction of county affairs from the commissioner's court of 1831-1850 and organized here the first board of supervisors. Erected by the LaSalle County Board of Supervisors 1950 — — Map (db m200088) HM
In the autumn of 1861 the valley before you, bounded by bluff, creek, and river, was known as Camp Hunter. Here on September 26, the 4th Illinois Cavalry mustered for duty, beginning military training and a three-year enlistment. White tents . . . — — Map (db m185004) HM
Christ Episcopal Church
has been placed on the
National Register
of Historic Places
by the United States
Department of Interior
c. 1871 — — Map (db m198803) HM
First Lincoln-Douglas Debate
Abraham Lincoln's first heated exchanged with Stephen A. Douglas on Aug 21, 1858 in Ottawa was received coolly by his advisors. They insisted Lincoln had treated Douglas entirely too "tenderly." . . . — — Map (db m65302) HM
This historic artery of travel was begun in 1836 and finished in 1848. By carrying pioneers and their produce between Lake Michigan and the Illinois Valley, it figured largely in the development of northern Illinois. Superseded by the deep waterway . . . — — Map (db m185049) HM
Illinois Appellate Court
Third District
Formerly the Northern Grand Division
of the Illinois Supreme Court and the
Second District Appellate Court
has been placed on the
National Register
of Historic Places
by the United . . . — — Map (db m198802) HM
In memory of W.R Foster (1863-1957)
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 . . . — — Map (db m198468) HM
In 1859, Jim Gray, a slave who escaped from Missouri, was apprehended in Illinois by slave hunters. Gray was taken to Ottawa for a hearing before Justice John Dean Caton of the Illinois Supreme Court's northern division.
On October 19, with a . . . — — Map (db m201759) HM
This courthouse was erected in 1881, 82, 83 being the fourth on this site. The first and second were of wood. The third of brick.
This cornerstone was laid by the Masonic Fraternity July 4, 1881.
The cost of the building was 127,127.01. . . . — — Map (db m198464) HM
Joseph Otis Glover could boast “Lincoln Slept Here” in a bedroom in his modest home at 810 Columbus St. Traveling political candidates often put up at the homes of supporters. Thus, when Lincoln arrived in Ottawa on August 21, 1858, for his . . . — — Map (db m185038) HM
On this site stood the Third LaSalle County Courthouse. Actually the second courthouse to be erected at this location, the Third LaSalle County Courthouse was completed in the latter part of 1841. It was a two-story brick structure, with imposing . . . — — Map (db m65303) HM
In honor of Stephen A Douglas. A great American who spoke on this site October 25, 1840 and September 13, 1854. He also debated the slavery extension issue with Abraham Lincoln August 21, 1858. His last talk in Ottawa was on October 8, 1860 as a . . . — — Map (db m200087) HM
On August 21, 1858, the first of seven debates between Abraham Lincoln and United States Senator Stephen A. Douglas took place in this park. Approximately 10,000 people gathered to hear the two candidates discuss the question of slavery in America. . . . — — Map (db m65299) HM
This tablet marks the home of
John Hossáck
It was here he directed the underground
freedom of slaves 1859
Erected by
Illini Chapter D.A.R.
1947 — — Map (db m185011) HM
[Center]
Dedicated to the
men and women of
our community who
served our country
World War I
World War II
Korea
Vietnam
1917 - 1973
Rest in Peace
[Left wing]
World War I
Adler, George • Anderson, . . . — — Map (db m185045) WM
On August 21, 1858, the first of the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas was held in Washington Square. Here ten thousand heard the two candidates debate for a seat in the United States Senate.
Principally, the great . . . — — Map (db m65325) HM
In appreciation of his service to the Boyhood of America. Inspired by the good turn of an unknown English Scout, he brought scouting to the United States. — — Map (db m82183) HM
Maud Powell's devotion to her violin, her art and humanity made her one of America's most revered and beloved musicians. The great-hearted artist believed strongly that “nothing was ever accomplished without faith and enthusiasm”. Her love for her . . . — — Map (db m185186) HM
[Left] In remembrance of the patriotism and dedication of the workers of the Chicago Bridge and Iron Company
[Center]
LST
Landing Ship Tank
This monument is dedicated to the 27,000 employees who worked to construct the . . . — — Map (db m239315) WM
You are walking in the footsteps of people
who have traveled this passageway for
centuries. Native Americans first used the
waterways for trade. They showed their routes
to French explorers, the first to dream of
building a canal.
From . . . — — Map (db m239324) HM
One of the first great aviation events in Illinois was the arrival of a flying contraption known as the Vin Fiz Flyer, which landed in Streator on October 9, 1911 as part of the first transcontinental flight across the United States.
A large . . . — — Map (db m145165) HM
World War II affected every part of American society. Despite the recent Great Depression, the public was very generous and gave all they could to help the US win the war. The massive war effort moved thousands of troops across the country for . . . — — Map (db m185081) HM
The City of Streator wishes to thank artist Gene Davis for his inspiration of the American Heroes Mural for the City Park. Thank You to these donors— AMVETS Post 120 • Streator Firefighters #56 • City of Streator • Doug Patterson • Joe . . . — — Map (db m185338) WM
Clyde William Tombaugh was born near Reading (south of Streator) in 1906. He attended Heenanville Grade School and Streator High School and became interested in astronomy at an early age. In 1922 his family moved to Kansas. He built telescopes and . . . — — Map (db m145184) HM
Streator’s founding father was a noteworthy politician, successful businessman, courageous patriot and remarkable humanitarian. His helping hand, hopeful words, and loving heart were devoted to the service of humanity; his greatest gifts were his . . . — — Map (db m185073) HM
Dedicated to the Soldiers, Sailors, and Patriots of the American Revolutionary War, 1775-1783, whose valor, courage, and love of Freedom secured the blessings of Liberty and Independence for our Nation. October 19, 1997 by Streator Chapter . . . — — Map (db m185099) WM
B. P. O. E. No. 591 The home lodge of George “Honey Boy” Evans America’s Greatest Minstrel "His faults we have written upon the sand, his virtues upon the tablets of Love and Memory." — — Map (db m185152) HM
The Semi-pro Streator Reds have a baseball history dating back to the 1880’s, having played Major League teams in exhibition games. In 1908, the Streator Reds beat the World Champion Chicago Cubs in an exhibition game after the World Series. Born . . . — — Map (db m185122) HM
[south]Dedicated to All area men who fought in the American Civil War [east]In honor of Orion P. Howe youngest recipient of Congressional Medal of Honor [west]In honor of Lyston D. Howe youngest to serve in the Civil . . . — — Map (db m185100) HM WM
”I always wanted to know what’s on the other side of the mountain.” —Clyde Tombaugh A Life of Discovery Clyde Tombaugh's love of astronomy began as a young boy growing up near Streator. At age 24, he became famous for . . . — — Map (db m177433) HM
The first transcontinental flight was completed in 1911 by Cal Rodgers, who learned to fly after only 90 minutes of instruction from Orville Wright. Answering a challenge by William Randolph Hearst to fly cross country in 30 days, Cal was sponsored . . . — — Map (db m185089) HM
Dedicated May 26th 1945 to the over 1200 men and women who served during W.W. II from the Streator land area. It also stands as a reminder that over 80 of those 1200 gave their lives in the defense of this nation and that of other nations so that . . . — — Map (db m186197) WM
Pioneer of the Great Plains, born here May 27, 1837. Assassinated at Deadwood, August 2, 1876. Served his country as a scout and a spy in the western States, to preserve the Union in the Civil War. Equally great were his services on the frontier as . . . — — Map (db m30858) HM
Dedicated to all the men and women of the Village of Troy Grove who served our country in war and peace
Russell Graper • Jerry Roach • Henry Miller • James Omahen • Ross Downing • Kenneth Bauer • Dwight Edgcomb • Bernie Siebert • Edward Baker . . . — — Map (db m202058) WM
James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok was born May 27, 1837, in a house that stood on this block. His parents, William A. and Polly Butler Hickok, settled in Troy Grove (then called Homer) in 1836 after living for a time at Tonica (then called Bailey's . . . — — Map (db m199848) HM
