2016 Discover Central Illinois

Aikman Wildlife Adventure.............22Amish Of Illinois ...............................6Arcola .............................................15Arthur .............................................24Atwood............................................35Bement ...........................................39Bloomington ...................................64Casey..............................................52Charleston......................................42Chesterville ....................................30Clinton ............................................50Crawford County ............................54

Decatur...........................................60Effingham .......................................56Fairbury..........................................70Galesburg .......................................69Greenup..........................................48Greenville .......................................63Jacksonville....................................65Lake Shelbyville .............................38

Litchfield ........................................68Marshall..........................................59Mattoon ..........................................46Monticello.......................................40Oakland ..........................................45Paris ...............................................64Parke County, IN ............................79Pontiac ...........................................73

Robinson.........................................54Springfield......................................74Sullivan...........................................36Tuscola ...........................................32Urbana............................................76Vandalia..........................................66Wineries, Central Illinois ...............78

Published by Rankin Publishing(217) 268-4959

[email protected]

Communities & Attractions

16Discover.FINAL_Layout 1 3/25/16 9:23 AM

CLARK

SHELBY

PIATT

DE WITT

COLES

McLEAN

CHAMPAIGN

MACON DOUGLASMOULTRIE EDGAR

MORGAN

KNOX

LIVINGSTON

LOGAN

FAYETTEBOND

DROFWARCEFFINGHAM

CLARK

SHELBY

PIATT

DE WITT

COLES

McLEAN

CHAMPAIGN

MACON DOUGLASMOULTRIE EDGAR

MORGAN

KNOX

LIVINGSTON

LOGAN

FAYETTEBOND

SANGAMONSANGAMON

DROFWARCEFFINGHAM

CUMBERLANDCUMBERLAND

Parke County,

IN

Parke County,

IN

• Galesburg• Pontiac

• Fairbury

GreenvilleGreenville •• Greenville •

DISCOVERThese Central Illinois

Communities

•• Rochester Rochester

•

Rochester

MONTGOMERYMONTGOMERY

• Litchfield

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Aikman Wildlife Adventure .......................22

Amish Of Illinois .........................................6

Arcola .......................................................15

Arthur .......................................................24

Atwood ......................................................35

Bement .....................................................39

Bloomington .............................................64

Casey ........................................................52

Charleston ................................................42

Chesterville ..............................................30

Clinton ......................................................50

Crawford County ......................................54

Decatur.....................................................60

Effingham .................................................56

Fairbury ....................................................70

Galesburg .................................................69

Greenup ....................................................48

Greenville .................................................63

Jacksonville ..............................................65

Lake Shelbyville .......................................38

Litchfield ..................................................68

Marshall....................................................59

Mattoon ....................................................46

Monticello.................................................40

Oakland ....................................................45

Paris .........................................................64

Parke County, IN ......................................79

Pontiac .....................................................73

Robinson...................................................54

Springfield ................................................74

Sullivan .....................................................36

Tuscola .....................................................32

Urbana ......................................................76

Vandalia....................................................66

Wineries, Central Illinois .........................78

www.rankinpublishing.com/discoverPublished annually by

Rankin Publishing, Inc.204 E. Main St. • P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910

Phone 217-268-4959 • Fax [email protected]

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Amish lifestyles are far different from the every-day lives most Americans know. The Amish livehumbly and simply, dedicating their lives to re-

ligious ideals. Nearly 4,500 Amish people populateMoultrie, Douglas and Coles counties in such com-munities as Arcola, Arthur, Lovington, Sullivan, Tus-cola, Cadwell, Chesterville, Atwood and Cooks Mills.The Amish faith is based on Menno Simon’s break

from the Roman Catholic Church during the Anabap-tist movement in Europe in the early 1500s. The Amishlater split from this group, known as the Mennonites,due to their belief in shunning those who leave thechurch, established by Jacob Ammann. After sufferingpersecution for generations, the Amish and Mennon-ites set sail for the United States in the late 1600s andearly 1700s.In 1865, Central Illinois saw its first Amish settlers

in the families of Daniel Yoder, Daniel Otto and MosesYoder. Today, Amish communities spring up across theUnited States, with large populations in Indiana, Penn-sylvania and Ohio. In all, Amish communities arefound in 27 states.In following with traditional customs, Amish peo-

ple do not use electricity or operate automobiles andmodern farm machinery. Instead, they travel byhorse-drawn buggy, use propane to fuel their lightfixtures and heat their ovens, and farm using teams

of horses. While most Ameri-can homes are now filled withthe noises of modern-daytechnological devices, Amishhomes remain much quieter.Amish people do not own ra-dios or televisions and onlyuse telephones outside theirhomes for business and incases of emergency.Amish children begin work-

ing on family businesses andfarms at ages as young as 5years, performing chores typi-cal of children who live on afarm or who are raised in afamily business. As childrengrow, their responsibilities in-crease.

Central Illinois Is Home To State’s Largest Amish Community

AMISHOF ILLINOIS



2016 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 7

CLOTHINGThe Amish wear solid colored clothing that is hand-tailored

by family members. Men wear long, denim pants to work withplain colored shirts and suspenders. They wear a black, hand-sewn suit, a white shirt and black shoes to church. Outside,men almost always wear a hat — straw in summer and blackfelt in winter.Women wear plain colored dresses without trim and are

void of jewelry and cosmetics. Their dresses are fastened withstraight pins and their heads are covered at all times withwhite head coverings made of Swiss organdy. These whitecoverings are even worn under their black bonnets. Addition-ally, their garments have no buckles or zippers. Older womenwear dark colors, such as navy blue, green or burgundy, withblue and black saved for religious occasions such as weddingsand funerals. In cold weather, they add black wool shawls totheir wardrobes.Amish ladies cover their heads with white prayer coverings

while indoors and add a black bonnet on top of the coveringwhen outdoors. When women are working in the garden, theywear handkerchiefs. Girls dress like their mothers, with a fewexceptions. Girls do not wear straight pins until they are older,

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and they are allowed buttons on their dresses.Without modern conveniences, the Amish wash clothing with

a wringer/washer and hang it to dry on a clothesline. A linedraped with clothes drying in the sun after a fresh washing is acommon sight in any Amish community.

BUSINESSTraditionally, Amish business assets were calculated by how

much land a family owned. With the Amish population growingand the land area remaining unchanged, however, many Amishtoday hold other business assets.


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Amish buggies are gathered for a social event in the area.


As times have changed, more Amish businesses have openedto supplement the income generated from farming. As a result,many wonderful finds can be discovered at Amish businessesin the area. Signs along rural roads alert passersby of opportu-nities to purchase various foods, including many fresh produceitems, during spring, summer and fall months.Among the local businesses operated by the Amish are gro-

cery stores, health food stores, shoe stores, woodworking shops,lawn furniture stores, an orchard, tool stores, a meat packingplant, feed mills and a lamp shop.• Furniture Shops and Custom

Built Cabinets: Round oak tables,roll-top desks, cabinets, home enter-tainment centers and wooden accentpieces are only a few of the manyhandcrafted furniture items avail-able at numerous shops. Along withfurniture craftsmen, Amish cabinet-makers can provide some of thefinest and most attractive custom-made kitchen and bathroom cabi-nets, and other furniture.• Country Stores: Small rural

stores are stocked with everythingfrom home-baked items to hand-made quilts.• Buggy and Wagon Repair

Shops: Building or repairing bug-gies and wagons is a necessary partof Amish life.

A number of Amish craftsmen have opened shops to performthis service for the public.• Harness Shops: Years of working with leather, brass, copper

and silver have helped aid the craft of Amish harness making.• Upholstering: Several shops specialize in high-quality uphol-

stering for both furniture and vehicle seats. Visitors can bring theirown fabric into the shops or choose from a selection of materials.

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Without modern conveniences, the Amish wash clothing with a wringer/washer and hang it to dry on a clothesline.


• Blacksmiths and Horseshoe-ing: The friendly smithers performtheir craft throughout the year.• Cloth and Fabrics: Amish

women make clothes, beautifulquilts and craft items. These shopsfeature everything needed forsewing.• Fresh Foods: The Amish advo-

cate foods direct from nature. Vi-tamins, nut meats, herbs, flours,dried fruit, juice and grains all canbe purchased at local shops.Locally raised natural beef,

pork, mutton and chicken are soldin state-inspected Amish shops.Fresh eggs, apple butter, honey,sorghum, apple cider and fruits andvegetables are sold during certaintimes of the year on several Amishfarms in the area. Visitors can alsosatisfy their hunger with the home-made cinnamon rolls, donuts,cakes, breads and candy sold at several private Amish farm-steads.Businesses are closed each Sunday and the Epiphany (old

Christmas), and on Ascension Day, which is 40 days afterEaster. The Amish celebrate religious holidays, Thanksgivingand the New Year.

SCHOOLAmish children learn a dialect of the German language, called

Pennsylvania Dutch, before studying English. When children in


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Amish families attend school, they learn to speak English.In addition, most Amish children, by age 12, are able to op-

erate a horse and buggy for trips to school and elsewhere.Some Amish children attend public schools, but most study in

Amish parochial schools. There are 17 Amish schools in CentralIllinois. Typically, each school includes two teachers, who tendto be unmarried Amish women. One teaches students firstthrough fourth grade, while the other teaches students fifththrough eighth grade. Amish schools feature courses in subjectssuch as math, social studies, spelling, writing and health. Science is not taught, however, because the Amish do not be-

lieve it is a necessary course of study. Likewise, the Amish be-lieve that any knowledge attained past the eighth grade is“worldly” knowledge and is not required for the simple Amishlifestyle; therefore, Amish school teachers are also only edu-cated to the eighth grade.School normally ends with the arrival of May. This allows

children more time to work on the family farm. The Amish holda large picnic to celebrate the end of each school year. Amishchildren usually spend their evenings in the family home, wherereading and board games occupy leisure time.

WEDDINGSMany Amish people marry at the age of 19 or 20. In past

years, Amish newlyweds made a living from parcels of landgiven to them as gifts by one of the fathers. Today, that is less


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common and young married couples often purchase land uponwhich to build.Examining facial hair works well when trying to determine

the marital status of an Amish man. Married Amish men havebeards. Unmarried Amish men are clean-shaven. Amish menare not allowed to don mustaches. As in most Amish customs, religion plays a large role in

the lives of married couples. Prior to marrying, Amish menand women must join the Amish church. This process in-cludes baptism. Amish weddings, which are usually day-long celebrations that draw 200 to 500 guests, begin with2-hour religious services followed by a wedding ceremony.The bride often wears a royal blue dress and a white prayercap. Weddings normally take place in the home of a relativeof the bride.

Following an Amish wedding, a large celebratory meal isserved. The crowd eats in shifts. During the celebration, thewedding couple usually sits in a corner of a room. The crowdthen spends the afternoon singing hymns to the newly mar-ried couple. Newlyweds assist the hosts with cleaning theirhomes and washing the dishes after the ceremony has ended.Amish people do not wear wedding rings.

CHURCHEach Sunday, Amish families gather for church services

conducted in German in homes across the countryside. Aweek prior to each church service, a green (sometimes gray orwhite) church wagon takes items such as hymn books,benches, hat racks and dishes to the home where the churchservice will be held. The wagons are also used for both wed-

dings and funerals.There are 27 Amish church districts

in the Arcola/Arthur area. The districtscover approximately 72 square miles,with Arthur in the center of the settle-ment. While a bishop, two ministersand a deacon represent each district,there is no central authority.Families take great care in preparing

their homes for the lengthy churchservices. A very thorough cleaning ofthe home takes place prior to hosting.During each service, the congregationsits on backless benches. Boys sit withmen, while girls sit with women.

HOME IS CENTRALTO THE AMISH FAMILY

A typical Amish house has no car-peting, and plain “tied back” curtainshang at the windows during the day.The houses are usually painted white.Often, hardwood floors, wood cabinetsand cupboards, scatter rugs, and beau-tiful quilts add to the warmth anddecor of the homes.Amish homes are often large with

several rooms opening into one largeroom where they may hold churchservices. Homes are furnished simply,but comfortably.

FARMSAlthough Amish farms vary in size,

the norm is 80 to 100 acres. EachAmish farm family has approxi-mately 12 Belgian horses, or workinghorses, which pull farm equipment inthe fields. The families also own 2 to3 horses which are used for pullingthe buggies.Amish farmers often raise hogs,

cattle, chickens, turkeys and goats.Typically, a farmer raises one kind ofanimal, while another farmer raises a

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different kind of farm animal. For example, one farmer mayraise chickens, while another farmer may raise hogs, and soon. A common practice is to have a “butcher day,” duringwhich several families will go together to purchase animalsfrom a farmer — hogs for example. The families will thendivide the meat among themselves.In addition, Amish women often plant large gardens, and

many families pluck fresh fruit from orchards and gatherberries from homegrown patches.The main crops planted by Amish families include wheat,

oats, clover and corn. Until a few years ago, farming was away of life for nearly all Amish families. In recent years, how-ever, most Amish families have turned to woodworking, retailstores and other trades. In fact, several Amish people now


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travel to various manufacturing plants in the area to work.The largest meal of the day for an Amish farm family is

usually lunch. A lighter supper is served. Soup is a popularsupper meal. Family gardens supply much fresh produce forsoups and other meals.

THE AMISH WAY OF LIFEThe Amish have an active social life built around auctions,

picnics, quilting bees, softball and visits with neighbors.While many Amish subscribe to local newspapers, theAmish also read their own national newspaper, The Budget.They also subscribe to many magazines, sometimes reflect-ing their trade or sometimes just for leisure.

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Amana/Amish Confusion

AMANA:A common misconception that most likely occurs due topronunciation involves mistaking the Amish for theAmana. The Amana Colonies were established in 1855 byGerman and Swiss craftsmen and scholars belonging to areligious sect called the Community of True Inspiration,now known as the Amana Church Society. The Amanachurch has never been associated with the Amish nor withthe Mennonite sects.

MENNONITES:

Mennonites, while often mistaken for Amish, honor dif-ferent customs. They drive automobiles and use othermodern-day amenities, and some do not follow some ofthe other customs of the Amish.Early Mennonites came to America to seek religious free-

dom in 1632. They settled in Pennsylvania and were dividedinto two groups.



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ARCOLA: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

A warm welcome greets visitors to Arcola, located just offInterstate 57 at Exit 203. Situated in the heart of IllinoisAmish Country, visitors enjoy Arcola and the surround-ing Amish countryside. Arcola is also proud to be thebirthplace of Johnny Gruelle, creator of the much lovedsymbols of Americana, Raggedy Ann and RaggedyAndy. Many people also travel to Arcola to shop for an-tiques, Amish-made furniture, to dine in the fine localrestaurants, shop the unique and friendly stores, pur-chase beautifully crafted furniture, stock up onsausage and cheese, participate in the town’s fabu-lous festivals, and learn more area history. The com-munity hosts several major celebrations thatannually draw thousands of guests to the community.

2016 RAGGEDY ANN GATHERING Arcola honors its famous son, Johnny Gruelle, and

his beloved creations, Raggedy Ann and Andy, annuallywith a weekend jam-packed with events for Raggedy en-thusiasts. The 2016 event is scheduled for Friday, June 10and Saturday, June 11, in Arcola. You are invited to apart of this very special themed weekend where you canmeet collectors, make new friends, and renew re-lationships.Events planned for the 2016 event include a

special Life Estate Sale at 2Ts Estate Sales on Arcola’sMain Street, Raggedy themed merchandise sales in theArcola Community Building, a Friday night banquet/auc-tion at Yoder’s restaurant in Arthur, IL, a RaggedyMakeover Contest and Raggedy Rewards. The themecharacter for this year’s event is Johnny Gruelle’sCheery Scarecrow. For more information, check theRaggedy Gathering At Arcola on Facebook, visit theArcola website www.arcolachamber.com.

ARCOLA’S BROOM CORN FESTIVALThe Broom Corn Festival is the oldest of Ar-

cola’s annual events. In 2016, Arcola celebrates thetown’s 46th Annual Arcola Broom Corn Festival.The annual festival lasts three days, beginning Fri-day afternoon, September 9, with the National BroomCorn Sweeping contest, and continues through Sun- day, September 11. (The Festival is always held theweekend following the Labor Day holiday.)The annual Broom Corn Festival is one of the

most popular annual events in Illinois. It drawsmore than 60,000 visitors to the city with its leg-

endary stage acts, craft vendors, food boothsand a huge parade featuring the nationally-rec-ognized Arcola Lawn Rangers, (chosen to be

The 2016 Raggedy Ann Gathering will be held June 10 and 11.

Arcola, Birthplace Of Raggedy Ann Creator,Festivals, Murals, Unique Shopping, Delicious Food


an entrant in President Obama’s first in-augural parade) and as many as 175 otherentrants.For decades, Arcolans referred to the

community as the "Broom Corn Capital ofthe World." Indeed, it was. Arcola stood asone of the nation’s top producers of broomcorn, a tall, unusual variety of sorghum thatis used as a raw material in the manufactureof brooms. The modern parade rekindles the spirit of

the times of yesteryear, when farmershitched their horses to wagons loaded withthe year’s harvest and headed toward town.Once in Arcola, they rolled down MainStreet proudly displaying their haul whileenroute to one of the many local broom fac-tories. While broom corn is no longergrown in the fertile farmland that surroundsArcola, factories that were born of thoseearlier times remain much the heart of thecommunity, and the local economy.The Arcola Chamber of Commerce an-

nually sponsors the popular family festival,and the organization has built a storied tra-dition of success in bringing to Arcola entertainers who seem to explodeonto the national music scene either just before, or just after, taking thestage at the Broom Corn Festival.One of the Broom Corn Festival stage acts is Garth Brooks, who enter-

tained thousands during one of the free Broom Corn Festival concerts in1991 and went on to an incredible music career that transformed country

music. More recently, Kenny Chesney performed at the festival, and theranks of those who have taken the Broom Corn Festival stage also includeBrad Paisley, Tracy Lawrence, Chris Cagle and Buddy Jewell.Along with the featured performer, several other musical acts highlight

the festival, including those performing in the Broom Corn Festival beertent, which attracts huge evening crowds.The 2013 festival featured the famous Budweiser Clydesdales, along

with their complete entourage. The Clydesdales, staff, equipment andsemis were in Arcola for three days. The festival also features a long list of events celebrating the commu-

nity’s heritage. These include broom-making demonstrations, a broomsweeping contest, children’s entertainment, carnival rides and craft boothsthat line the streets along with delicious festival foods. For additional in-formation on the festival, contact the Arcola Chamber of Commerce at217-268-4530 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.

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130 ARTISTS CREATE ARCOLA’S 15 WALLDOG MURALS Through the efforts of the Arcola Beautification Committee, and a vari-

ety of fundraising projects involving numerous community volunteers, thefamous Walldogs mural painters came to Arcola in June 2012. The groupincluded 130 artists from across the United States as well as Canada, NewZealand, Scotland and Australia. There is a long and rich history of paint-

ing wall advertisements. These mural painters were often referred to asWalldogs, and the group adopted the name. The Walldog murals of today are designed to enhance the sense of nos-

talgia and history of the towns lucky enough to attract the artistry of theWalldogs. Paintings on the exterior of local businesses feature topicsunique to the rich history of Arcola. The prestigious Walldogs select justone city in the Midwest to transform each year.

Murals include: a mural dedicated to Arcolan Joe Ernst (WWll FrenchMedal of Honor recipient) and Ella Fitzgerald; Raggedy Ann and Andy; theCity of New Orleans train; Clayton Moore and the Lawn Rangers; PfeifferSeed Company; broom corn and Arcola’s famous annual Broom Corn Fes-tival; an Arcola football themed mural; historic Route 45; the local Amishculture; the Arcola Candy Kitchen; the Hispanic migration to Arcola; TheArcola Sweet Shop, and a painting dedicated to the Arcola Opera Houseand “Ozzie and Harriett” during the 1935 Homecoming event. Visitwww.arcolawalldogsproject.com.

ARCOLA NATIVE JOHNNY GRUELLE: CREATOR OF RAGGEDY ANN AND ANDY

Here’s a bit of a history lesson: Johnny Gruelle, a well-known artist andillustrator who created Raggedy Ann and Andy, was born in Arcola in 1880to artistic parents R.B. and Alice Gruelle. R.B. was one of the famousHoosier Group of Impressionist artists. From his youth, art was a major in-fluence in Johnny Gruelle’s life. While Johnny Gruelle is best known for his famous creations, Raggedy

Ann and Andy, he was certainly an artist with a true talent for cartooningand magazine/newspaper illustration. He was employed by publicationsincluding The Indianapolis Star, The Cleveland Press and The New YorkHerald. Probably his most famous comic strip was Mr. Twee Deedle. Hiscartoons, illustrations and illustrated stories also appeared in well knownmagazines of the time such as McCall’s, The Ladies World and The Illus-trated Sunday Magazine. Gruelle continued his growth as an artist and, after struggling

through a tragic event that affected his own life, created the famedRaggedy Ann as the central character in a series of children’s books. His daughter, Marcella, is credited with finding the very first Raggedy

Ann, a long forgotten faceless rag doll, in the family’s attic. She becameone of Marcella’s favorite companions. The name Raggedy Ann mayhave come from a combination of two of James Whitcomb Riley’s (afriend) poems, “The Raggedy Man” and “Little Orphant Annie.”

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The Walldogs creating one of the 15 Arcola murals.


Marcella tragically died in childhood, and it is said to have been at thistime that Johnny Gruelle began to write down the stories he had created forMarcella with the rag doll as its main character. He patented and trade-marked Raggedy Ann in 1915. The first Raggedy Ann book was publishedin 1918 and was dedicated to “the millions of children who have loved arag doll.” Gruelle published a total of 40 books for children. He includedmany of Marcella’s other dolls in the stories creating such characters asBrown Bear and Eddie Elephant. The story messages are happy, filled witha strong moral message and good deeds.Johnny Gruelle died in 1938. His son, Worth, and his brother, Justin,

continued to publish Raggedy Ann stories. Today, the Gruelle family re-mains strongly committed to the story themes and art created by Johnny. Johnny Gruelle’s granddaughter and her husband (Tom and Joni Gruelle

Wannamaker) reside in Arcola where, for over a decade, they owned andoperated a museum dedicated to Johnny Gruelle. Joni, daughter of Worthand Susie Gruelle, is a talented artist as well, and continues to work withpublishers on new Raggedy Ann and Andy merchandise.

ARCOLA AREA AMISH SETTLEMENTIllinois’ largest Amish settlement is located just west of Arcola. The rural

area is lined with Amish businesses, homes, and schools. Drivers share theroads with horse-drawn buggies and bicycles.The Illinois Amish are tied to their Reformation beginnings by their his-

tory, faith, simple way of life and plain dress. The Amish grew out of theReformation Anabaptist movement that began in Zurich, Switzerland in1525. The movement included the Swiss Brethren and the Hutterites inSouthern Europe, and the Mennonites in the north of Europe. Anabaptistsinsisted on baptizing believing adults rather than infants. Refusal to fol-low any government or to fight in armies led to persecution by Catholic andProtestant states. In 1693, the Amish separated from the Swiss Brethren, taking their name

from Jacob Ammann, an early leader. The primary cause of the split with

the Swiss Brethren involved the Amish belief in shunning society memberswho broke the rules of the church. After the two split, Amish families beganmoving to the United States in the early 1700s, and, today, there are noAmish in Europe. After moving into small settlements, the Amish movedwestward in the 1830s and reached Peoria, IL. That group later becameMennonite. The Old Order Amish who settled in the Arthur-Arcola areaoriginated from Pennsylvania. Three Amish men from Pennsylvania came to Arcola by railroad in 1865


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in search of land for a new settlement. They pur-chased land west of the Kaskaskia River in what wasthen known as the West Prairie area. The first threefamilies to arrive were later joined by others. Today,the Amish community consists of approximately4,300 people and is divided into 25 church districts.Living without electricity and using horses for trans-portation and field work, the Amish families were, atfirst, engaged primarily in farming. In recent decades, as it became increasingly diffi-

cult to acquire farmland, Amish men began estab-lishing thriving businesses. With woodworkingbusinesses and establishments based on other suchtrades, many tourists now are drawn to the area tobuy beautifully crafted Amish furniture, handmadeAmish quilts and other products produced by localAmish families.

AMAZING ARCOLA AND SPECIAL EVENTS:

For antique enthusiasts, Arcola will host a Coun-try Spirit Antique Show March 4 and 5. The eventhas expanded and is housed in two locations, the Ar-cola Center at 107 West Main Street and The BestWestern Hotel and Conference Center at 917 GreenMill Road. Both locations feature American coun-try antiques. A second Country Spirit Antique Showand Sale is scheduled for Nov. 11 and 12. Arcola merchants welcome spring with an annual Spring Open House

in March (date TBA) when they celebrate the end of winter with specialpricing for shoppers.New to the area in 2016 is Aikman’s Wildlife Adventure Park, rural Ar-

cola, where 40 acres have been dedicated to offer-ing a car/or horse-drawn wagon drive-through ex-perience viewing and personally interacting withover 90 animals from all over the world. Visitwww.aikmanwildlife.com.The annual community-wide garage sale, sched-

uled August 5 and 6, is also a popular event.Visitors throughout the year will find much more

in Arcola. The community offers a warm welcometo visitors as well as unique shopping in charmingstores, friendly service, and ample storefront park-ing. There is just too much to see in one day. Spendthe night in Arcola at a hotel including Arcola’sComfort Inn or The Arcola Best Western Plus Hoteland Conference Center. Some of the shops on Arcola’s Main Street sure

to please even the most discerning shopper includeThe Arcola Emporium for home decor, gifts, jew-elry and antiques. In addition, visitors will findAmish-crafted furniture and cabinets in Yoder’sHomestead Shop and Country Charm. A friendlywelcome awaits at even more Arcola businesses.Local restaurants feature mouth-watering spe-

cialties. Dine in local favorite restaurants includingArcola’s Dutch Kitchen, The Hen House, McDon-ald’s, Monicals, Sweepers, Carriage Crossing, Sub-

way and Dairy Queen. Green Mill Village welcomes you to Amish Country of Illinois, a region

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local eateries. Whatever brings you to the region, Green Mill Village pro-vides the perfect landing point to Live, Stay, and Play. This year, Green Mill Village Theatre and Events brings a summer, fall

and Christmas lineup at its theatre-in-the-round venue that is sure to tickleyour funny bone and have you tapping your toes inside the Best WesternPLUS Hotel and Suites Convention Center. Last year, Green Mill VillageTheatre brought thousands of tourists to see Blue Gate Musical’s produc-tion of “Half-Stitched the Musical,” and its new lineup of entertainmentpays tribute to Patsy Cline, the bluegrass legends and Christian comedianssure to open hearts and soothe the soul. For ticket information and the cur-rent schedule, go to www.gmvtheatre.com.Guests looking for Amish Country of Illinois hotels can get away from

it all while still enjoying the best of modern conveniences at the Best West-ern PLUS hotel. The furniture in the rooms was made by local Amish crafts-men from Simply Amish, plus the artwork is from a local photographer withAmish ancestry, Richard Hershberger. As visitors walk through the sereneproperty, canvases adorn the walls depicting the beauty of the prairie and thetradition and vitality of Amish life. Visitors deserve a property that's clean,comfortable and affordable with the best hospitality in Central Illinois. Lo-cated in the middle of Illinois Amish Country, Best Western PLUS regu-larly welcomes guests who are looking for a true escape and experience.Whether it's Amish experiences or one of the near-by university campuses

that bring visitors to this part of Illinois, comfort is key. Shop for Amish handcrafted furniture by day, head to the Broom Corn

Festival or a Green Mill Village event, explore the area with the familyand rest knowing a luxurious pillow-top mattress will be waiting in a spa-cious guestroom with all the modern amenities including complimentarybreakfast, WIFI, microwave and fridge.Green Mill Village, is where tradition meets vitality. To make your

reservations, call 217-268-5000 or go to www.gmvdevelopment.com.THE HOLIDAYS

Visitors will also receive a special welcome during the Christmas holi-day season when shoppers can enjoy holiday music played through speak-ers lining the town’s sidewalks, festively decorated storefronts, streets andwindows, and even a lighted tree at the four-way stop on Arcola’s Main


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Continued On Page 77


AIKMANWILDLIFE ADVENTURE: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

Bringing a touch of the “exotic” to the heart of Illinois Amish Country is Aikman Wildlife Adventure. Beginning its first year of operation in 2016,the 40-acre park is located on the Illinois prairie along the picturesque Kaskaskia River just 5 miles west of Interstate 57 at exit 203 (Illinois Route133), at the site of the former Rockome Gardens.

Aikman Wildlife Adventure offers visitors and their families an outdoor experience viewing and interacting with a variety of animal species from manyparts of the world, including the United States, Europe, Africa and Central and South America.Two years in the making, owner James Aikman visualized Aikman Wildlife Adventure as a park where families could enjoy a special outdoor expe-

rience together, as well as a place where “rescue” animals and other animals in need could call “home.”“There are many kids these days who seem to always be on their phones and computers, and not going outside anymore,” Aikman said. “Most peo-

ple are innately drawn and are curious about animals. Aikman Wildlife Adventure is designed to help young people to be motivated to want to be out-side. It is a place where families can come together and hang out and enjoy God’s amazing creations whenever they desire.“The park is different from a zoo because visitors have more personal interaction with the animals, as opposed to just seeing them behind some kind

of barrier.”There are several ways visitors can enjoy

the about 90 animals in the park. The “drive-through” section of the park covers about 20acres. Visitors can drive their cars throughthe area, view and take photographs of theanimals up close. Federal rules do not allowfeeding the animals from a car, however,those wishing to feed the animals can takethe park’s horse-drawn wagon tour throughthe drive-through area. The wagons holdabout 25 people. A guide narrates the ad-venture and relays information about the an-imals the wagon encounters. Each rider isgiven a small tub of feed for the animals thatapproach the wagon.Those taking the drive-through adventure

can view “up close and personal” manyspecies of animals. They include llamas, al-pacas, emus and Scottish Highlanders, atype of cattle often called “hairy cows” be-cause of their shaggy coats. Also, wildturkeys and exotic sheep can be seen.In addition, also in the drive-through area

are bison, water buffalo and the two types ofcamels. The Arabian camel, also calleddromedary, has one hump, while the Bac-train camel has two humps. Arabian camels’native habitat is the Middle East and theHorn of Africa, while Bactrain camels canbe found in Central Asia. Brown, white andblackish-colored fallow deer, about the sizeof white-tailed deer, also roam the drive-through section.Families who enjoy nature films will be

excited to see one of the most well-knownanimals found on the Serengeti plains andother areas of Africa brought to the GreatPlains of Central Illinois — the blue wilde-beest. Indeed, Serengeti is derived from aMaasai word that means “endless plains.”What is known as the “Serengeti Wilde-

beest Migration” is an annual natural phe-nomenon that takes place between SerengetiNational Park in Tanzania and Maasai MaraGame Reserve in Kenya, where up to 2 mil-lion animals, mostly wildebeest and zebra,


Family Fun On The Prairie At Aikman Wildlife Adventure

Pictured is James Aikman, feeding a nilgai, an antelope native to India.


move in a clockwise rotational route determined by theavailability of grazing and water.In addition to the blue wildebeest, other African ani-

mals in the drive-through area are a zebra and an eland,Africa’s largest antelope. The park has two Scimitaroryxs, also known as the Sahara oryx. This species oforyx, which formerly inhabited all of North Africa, is nowextinct in the wild. Also an addax, also known as thewhite antelope and the screwhorn antelope, calls AikmanWildlife Adventure home. Native to India, a nilgai, aspecies of antelope, also lives in the drive-through area.Another type of adventure that can be experienced at

the park is the “walk-through”section. This area more re-sembles a traditional zoo, in that the animals are housedin their own particular habitat, which, however, is muchlarger than what can be found in a typical zoo. Visitorscannot interact with the animals in this part of the park,except for in the petting zoo area.Animals found in the walk-through area are a coat-

imundi, which is a racoon-like animal found in Centraland South America. There are also African porcupinesand an African genet, which is a kind of a small ferret-looking animal, gray in color with black spots. Kinka-jous also call the walk-through area home. The kinkajouis a rainforest mammal, also known as the “honey bear.”The grand opening of Aikman Wildlife Adventure is scheduled for Memorial Day weekend. The drive-through section will open earlier, on March 12.Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday, from Memorial Day through Labor

Day. From Labor Day to Memorial Day, hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. One ticketgives visitors access to both the drive-through and walk-through areas of the park. There is also a gift shop where visitors can purchase a souvenir oftheir “wildlife adventure.”For more information, visit the Aikman Wildlife Adventure’s Facebook page and/or www.aikmanwildlife.com or by calling 217-268-3500. The email

address is [email protected].


Foreground, a Scottish Highlander, also known as a “hairy cow,” and in the background a watusi.


| 2016 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

Throughout the village of Arthur and its surrounding area, visitorswill find a friendly, slow-paced atmosphere that lends itself tothe town’s adopted motto, “You’re Only A Stranger Once.” With

a population of only 2,300, Arthur possesses many distinctive qualities. Located fewer than 10 miles west of Interstate 57, Arthur provides a

wonderful centerpiece for those looking for unique shopping or the en-riching cultural experiences offered in the surrounding countryside. Thisincludes the fourth-largest settlement of the Old Order Amish in theUnited States, and the largest settlement in Illinois.The Illinois Amish community has been central to life around Arthur

for more than a century. The Amish, who dress conservatively, travel inblack buggies and work the soil the old-fashioned way by horse-drawnimplement, own many farms and businesses around the Arthur area. Vis-itors travel from across the globe to experience the Amish lifestyle andenjoy the charm of Arthur’s many locally owned shops and cottage in-dustries.While the Amish community enjoys its privacy, all are invited to ex-

perience a whole separate world of commerce that springs to life earlyeach morning. Many Amish families own specialty shops creatinghandmade quilts, crafts and rugs, baked goods, handmade solid woodfurniture, lawn furniture and outdoor buildings, milling shops, palletshops, buggy shops, canvas shops, butcher and poultry processingshops, food and spices in bulk and health food stores. Some of theseshops are wholesale only, while many are open to the public.The Amish have large gardens and will share their bounty at road-

side stands or through local auctions. Some have made a business with

orchards, greenhouses and truck farms. They raise all kinds of farmanimals and sell them at weekly auctions at the local sale barn. Visitorsalso come to Arthur to partake of delicious Amish foods, such as cin-namon rolls, breads and other delicious baked goods available at localbakeries and at the many benefit sales and auctions that fill the Arthurcalendar. For a truly cultural exp erience, visitors can schedule a tradi-tional Amish meal on an Amish farm through ACM Tours or AmishAdventures Tour Services, both located in downtown Arthur.Amish cottage businesses are usually open Monday through Satur-

day throughout the year. Some open as early as 8 a.m. and close as lateas 6 p.m. Those traveling to the area might want to seek informationbefore making a trip to learn about certain holidays during whichAmish workers close their shops to spend time with friends and fam-ily (visit www.IllinoisAmishCountry.com for more information.)Visitors to the Arthur area should take special precautions while trav-

eling the area’s roadways. Buggies travel at about 10 miles per hourand generally follow buggy paths along the edges of the main high-ways to ensure safety. Slow down and be careful when passing one ona rural roadway.The Amish settlers of Central Illinois, as one might guess, are gen-

uinely friendly people. Visitors are encouraged to wave and greetthem as they would when greeting old friends. Since Amish customsprohibit the use of camera equipment, Amish community membersprefer they not be photographed or video recorded. PhotographingAmish farms, animals and buggies, however, is generally allowedwith a few exceptions.

Arthur: In The Heart Of Amish Country

ARTHUR: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

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Homemade Baked Goods• Pies • Cinnamon Rolls • Breads • Cookies

Visit Our Gift Shop

Features over 2,000 sq. ft. of the area’s finest gifts. From quilts to china, crafts to framed art, you’re sure to find something for that special someone.

Banquet FacilitiesWe can accommodate groups from 30 to 350.

Let our experienced staff help plan your next special event.

We’ll make your dining experience special!

Yoder’s Kitchen is a full service family restaurant offering the best in Amish/Mennonitecooking. Our full menu features our famous broasted chicken, smoked pork chops and much more.

We also offer a lunch and dinner buffet that includes all of our mouth-watering favorites.

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Arthur HistoryThe history of Arthur and

the Illinois Amish dates back tothe mid-1800s. Arthur was set-tled when three Amish gentle-men came to the area around1865 looking for farmland thatdidn’t have the same rockyquality as the land in their na-tive states of Pennsylvania andMaryland. They found suchland in what was then knownas The Big Slough. The land,which was located nine mileswest of the already establishedcommunity of Arcola, was sat-urated with water. Oncedrained, however, the groundproved to be ideal for farming,with the flat, fertile fields ofblack soil representing some ofthe top land in the country.In the early 1870s, a switch-track was needed for the new railroad cross-

ing the swampy land between Paris and Decatur. It was decided that itwould be placed near today’s Vine Street, Arthur’s main street, and nowthe town’s primary commercial thoroughfare. The street separates thetown into two counties, Douglas County to the east and Moultrie Countyto the west.With the combination of fertile farmland and the new railroad switch-

track, a small settlement soon blossomed. The owner of the railroad,Robert G. Hervey, named the new settlement Glascow. A short time later,

fire destroyed the new village.When business owners rebuilt,their new shops were placed atright angles to the railroad strad-dling the two counties on eitherside of Vine Street. Then, in1873, when the village fatherspetitioned to incorporate thecommunity, it was discoveredthat another Illinois communityused the name Glascow. Afterhearing the news, Mr. Herveychanged the name to Arthur tohonor his favorite brother.

EventsVisitors to Arthur and the

surrounding area will noticemany acres of flat, fertile farm-land. Douglas County is theflattest county in Illinois. While

it lacks undulating hills, however, it certainly doesn’t lack beauty. Broadvistas, sometimes stunning sunsets and the tree-lined banks of the nearbyKaskaskia River provide a wonderful backdrop to a land where beautifulhorses graze in pastures.Arthur hosts many major events each year, beginning with antique

shows in March, Saturday markets, the Annual Amish Country Quilt Showand Auction in April, and listening to bluegrass music at the Chet KingeryMemorial Blue Grass Festival on a Saturday afternoon/evening in May.The days and weeks that follow are filled with events such as the Arthur

Independence Day Celebration, held the Saturday prior to the 4th of July.


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This gigantic fireworks display fea-tures a parade, entertainment, an airshow with World War II aircraft,helicopter rides and skydivers, anda huge 16-inch firework shell amidthe evening fireworks display.Other Arthur events include The

June Strawberry Jam Festival; theFreedom Celebration and the Moul-trie-Douglas County Fair in July;and “A Touch of Arthur” and theMennonite Relief Sale in August.September brings the annual

Amish Country Cheese Festival(held on Saturday, Sunday andMonday on Labor Day weekend);The Great Pumpkin Patch; an an-nual bicycle ride that attracts morethan 800 riders who love the flat,quiet roads and the Amish mealsserved to them; and several specialhorse sales.Then in October, don’t forget the

annual CIBR-BBQ Cook-off (Cen-tral Illinois Braggin’ Rights), whichis designated as an Illinois State Championship and KCBS sanc-tioned event. Visitors and townspeople alike are lured to come toArthur’s downtown just by the aroma of the BBQ cookers as it per-meates the air.The festival season starts to wind down with another huge Antique

& Primitive weekend and a lighted holiday parade during the Christ-

mas Kick-off Weekend in November, followed by the annual CentralIllinois Outdoor Expo held in February at the Otto Center.Monthly Event: The 3rd Saturday Craft and Flea Market in down-

town Arthur is conducted the third Saturday of each month indoorsand outdoors, depending on weather. More than 20 antique, craft andflea vendors are included.


A warm welcome awaits during every season.



ShoppingPicture yourself in the Arthur Amish Country shops. Out in the Amish

countryside you’ll find country grocery stores, quilt and fabric shops, bak-eries, orchards and fruit stands, buggy shops, woodworking shops andmore. These “Country Shops” are unique opportunities to interact directlywith the Amish shopkeepers and find special treasures to take home.While Amish handiwork is prevalent throughout the shops that dot the

countryside near Arthur, you can also spend a day in the unique shops indowntown Arthur. Visitors can shop for Amish crafted furniture at TheWood Loft or the Calico Workshop or quality antiques at Yoder’s Lampsand Antiques. Quilters treasure Stitch ’N’ Sew or The Villa, Dicks Phar-macy features an old-fashioned soda fountain, as well as cheese and bakedgoods at Country Cheese & More. Unique gifts are available in shops suchas The Pewter Spoon and the Arthur Flower Shop that also has fresh fudge.Visitors who wish to stay overnight are greeted with warm welcomes at

Arthur’s Country Inn on East Route 133, or stay in a charming B&B suchas Marsha’s Vineyard or Prairie Sunset. Visitors may also rent a furnishedhouse in Chesterville for their stay at the Lil’ Cottage.Arthur itself offers many interesting eating options. Yoder’s Kitchen is

Arthur’s largest restaurant with banquet facilities. For those in need of “re-juvenation,” just down the road is RoseLen’s Coffees & Delights. Try outPauly’s BBQ for some of central Illinois’ finest slow cooking. For break-fast and lunch downtown you will find a “farmer’s cafe” at the R&IRestaurant, a bar and grill at The Berg, and made fresh daily soup and subsandwiches at Country Cheese & More. The Country Kitchen, located inWatkins Estates on Route 133, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, in-cluding daily specials, and don’t forget La Casada Mexican Grill on EastRoute 133 in the Yoder Center.Call the Arthur Welcome Center at 217-543-2242 or visit

www.arthuril.us or www.ArthurFestivals.com for additional area infor-mation and a complete schedule of events.

2016 Arthur Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

March 24-26: C.A.M.S. Rummage Sale. Otto Center.March 26: Easter Egg Hunt at 1 p.m., Arthur High School. Arthur

Woman’s Club.March 27: Community Sunrise Service.

April 1: Toy Auction. Tri-County Auction Facility.April 2: Semi-Annual Consignment Sale. Tri-County Consignment Fa-

cility.April 2: Bi-Annual Fish Fry. Otto Center.April 2: County Line Standard-Bred Horse Sale. Arthur Sale Barn.April 15: 12th Annual Benefit Auction for the Moultrie County Bea-

con. Otto Center.

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April 16: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.April 16:Miss Arthur Pageant.April 18-23: 6th Annual Quilt Walk. Downtown

Arthur. Maps at Welcome Center.April 21-23: 27th Annual Arthur Quilt Show & Auc-

tion. Otto Center.April 23: Kelly Miller Circus. Arthur High School.April 29: Arthur Produce Auction opens for season.

One-half mile south of State Route 133 on CountyRoad 100E.Every Tuesday and Friday in May: Flowers and

produce at Arthur Produce Auction at 10 a.m.May 5: Ascension Day. All Amish businesses closed.May 6: Arthur Produce Annual Spring Tree & Land-

scaping Auction at 10 a.m.May 7: Arthur “Clean-Up” Day.May 16: East Central Illinois Standard-Bred & Pony

Sale. Arthur Sale Barn.May 21: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.Every Tuesday and Friday in June: Flowers and

produce at Arthur Produce Auction at 10 a.m.June 2-4: Cushman Scooters Daze. Moultrie-Douglas

County Fairgrounds.June 3, 4: Strawberry Jam Festival. Downtown

Arthur.June 4: Strawberry Social. Otto Center.June 4: Ty’s Dash & Splash Memorial 5K/10K Run.June 4: The Homestead Bakery 10th Anniversary

Open House at The Great Pumpkin Patch from 10a.m. to 4 p.m.June 5: Central Illinois Lions Club/Arthur Lions Club

“Walk for Sight.” Jurgens Park at 4 p.m.June 6-10: Arthur Community Vacation Bible School

at Arthur Mennonite Church from 9-11:30 a.m.June 10, 11: All-Around Town Garage Sales. Maps at

Welcome Center.June 12, 13: 14th Annual Heart of America Pony

Sale. Vernon Yoder Farm/Tri-County Auction Facility. June 18: 7th Annual Amish Country Tractor Cruise. 50-mile cruise fea-turing pre-1980 tractors.June 18: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.Every Tuesday and Friday in July: Flowers and produce at Arthur

Produce Auction at 10 a.m.July 2: Arthur Freedom Celebration Parade. Downtown Arthur at 1 p.m. July 2: Arthur Freedom Celebration/Fireworks. Arthur Rotary Club.


FROM I-57 NORTH

FROM I-57 SOUTH

Paulys BBQ310 E Columbia St.

Arthur, IL 61911217-543-2400

[email protected]

Smoked Chicken Wings, Pulled Pork, Ribs, Turkey, Tenderloin, Grilled Chicken, Hog Trough

Right: In summer, hanging baskets and banners enhance Arthur’s Vine Street.


July 11-16: 86th Annual Moultrie-Douglas County Fair.July 7-9: East Central Illinois Shop Hop.July 15: Vine St. Christian Church “Movies Under the Stars.” Free

outdoor family movie.July 16: 2nd Annual Summer Pickers Auction. Tri-County Auc-

tion Facility.July 16: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.July 29: Vine St. Christian Church “Movies Under the Stars.” Free

outdoor family movie.Every Tuesday and Friday in August: Flowers and produce at Arthur

Produce Auction at 10 a.m.August 12: Vine St. Christian Church “Movies Under the Stars.” Free

outdoor family movie.August 20: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.August 26, 27: Arthur Mennonite Relief Sale. Otto Center.Every Tuesday and Friday in September: Fresh local produce,

pumpkins and mums at Arthur Produce Auction at 10 a.m.September 3-5: 44th Annual Arthur Amish Country Cheese Festival.

Rat Race 5K/10K Run, 1-Mile Fun Run, 5K Recreational Walk and KidsCheese Chasers Race. Arthur Woman’s Club. Slow Speed TractorRaces/Antique Tractor Show.September 3, 4: Annual Chet Kingery Bluegrass Festival. The Great

Pumpkin Patch.September 3: Annual East Central Illinois Standard-Bred Auction.

Arthur Sale Barn.September 9, 10: Fall All Around Town Garage Sales. Maps at Wel-

come Center.September 10-October 31: The Great Pumpkin Patch Open for 27th

season.September 16, 17: Arthur Homecoming Weekend. Parade, game and

coronation.September 17: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.September 17: Annual Bob Galloway Memorial Amish Country

Bike Tour.September 23: Toy Auction. Tri-County Auction Facility.September 24: Semi-Annual Consignment Sale. Tri-County Consign-

ment Facility.Every Tuesday and Friday in October: Fresh local produce, pump-

kins and mums at Arthur Produce Auction at 10 a.m.October 1-31: The Great Pumpkin Patch open daily.October 14, 15: CIBR-BBQ KCBS Competition, Thrill of the Grill

Competition.

October 15: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.October 21-23: Annual Haiti Auction. Otto Center.October 24-31: Lighted Pumpkin House Display.October 29: Halloween Festival. Arthur High School. Arthur

Woman’s Club.November 5: Vine Street Christian Church Holiday Bazaar.November 5: Bi-Annual Fish Fry. Otto Center.November 11, 12:Woodwrights Guild Fall Open House.November 11, 12: “Spirit of the Holidays” Bazaar. Arthur United

Methodist Church.November 11, 12: Homesteaders on the Prairie Antique Show/Sale.

Moultrie-Douglas Fairgrounds.November 11, 12: Country Spirit Antique Shows & Sale. Arcola Cen-

ter and Best Western Plus Arcola.November 12: Spirit of the Season/Gathering on the Prairie Antique

Show & Sale. Otto Center.November 18: Christmas Auction. Otto Center.November 19: Amish Country Christmas Kickoff/Lighted Christ-

mas Parade.November 19: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.November 26: Small Business Day Promotion.November 26: 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Weekend Auction of Farm

Toys/trucks. Tri-County Auction Facility.December 3: Breakfast with Santa.December 9, 10: Farm Collectibles, Advertising & Memorabilia Auc-

tion. Tri-County Auction Facility.December 10: Central Illinois Rabbit Breeders Association Show.

Moultrie-Douglas Fairgrounds.December 17: Downtown 3rd Saturday Market.December 25: Free Community Christmas Day Lunch. Vine Street

Christian Church.


• Guided Tour of theAmish Countryside• Meal in an Amish Home• Amish Home Tours

• Amish Woodworking Shop Tour

24 - 48 hours advance notice required for reservations. Groups of 4 to 200+ are Welcome.

SPEND A DAY… OR TWO!SHOP DOWNTOWN ARCOLA & ARTHUR, IL.

1071 CR 1200N, Sullivan, Illinois 61951Ph: 217-543-2734

Email: [email protected]: www.amishadventures.net

118 S. Vine, Arthur, IL 61911217-543-2913

Fax: 217-543-29438 - 6 Mon - Fri

8 - 4 Sat

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While you're in Downtown Arthur, stop in and enjoy a treat from our old fashioned soda fountain



Along the banks of the Kaskaskia River and in the middle of Amishsettlements, the charm of Chesterville greets visitors. In Chester-ville, which is midway between Arcola and Arthur, visitors will

discover an old-fashioned meat market, an outdoor furnishings businessand a thriving restaurant that serves delicious and bountiful meals. While most travelers pass through Chesterville on Illinois Route 133

bound for Arthur, Arcola and other area destinations, Chesterville’s newbridge, located just north of Illinois Route 133, provides a picturesqueview of the Kaskaskia River, which feeds into Lake Shelbyville. Thebridge offers photographers a front row seat for snapshots of colorful au-tumnal foliage and the beauty of an icy stream in winter. The new bridge was constructed recently to replace a 115-year-old

iron bridge that was commonly known as the Chesterville Bridge. Cit-izens around Chesterville asked the county to build the original struc-ture over the Kaskaskia River to take advantage of commercialadvantages of the Illinois Central Railroad. In those days, it was calledthe Kaskaskia River Bridge.In addition, travelers looking for a little adventure off the beaten path

can visit the small Chesterville Cemetery, located just outside the villageover an ancient, one-lane bridge. In the cemetery is the mysterious witch’sgrave. Local folklore has it the grave is that of a rebellious young womanwho was thought to be a witch. At one point, she disappeared and waslater found dead in a farmer’s field. Although authorities ruled that shedied of natural causes, many were afraid she would come back to life and

seek revenge. The body was placed in the local funeral home and peoplefrom all over the countryside came to view the witch’s body. She was

Chesterville: River Scenes, Good Food,Local Folklore In The Heart Of Amish Country

CHESTERVILLE: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

Above: Chesterville’s popular Korner Cafe, and below, Dutch Valley Meats, “on the curve” in Chesterville.



buried in the cemetery and a tree was planted on her grave so her spiritwould be trapped in the tree. As the tree grows directly from her grave, many local residents believe

that if the tree is cut down or destroyed, the ghost of the witch will leaveher grave and seek revenge on those who caused her death. Since that time, the woman’s ghost has allegedly appeared to passersby

and visitors to the cemetery. The story goes that, thanks to the tree, theghost is confined to the area around the grave. For hungry ghost seekers or other

travelers, an option available inChesterville is The Korner Cafe,which features Amish homestylecooking including a hearty lunch buf-fet. Living up to its motto, The Placefor Good Home Cookin’, The Ko-rner Cafe also offers a full menu thatincludes fried chicken plate luncheswith all the trimmings, soups, sand-wiches, in addition to homemadebreads, pies, cakes and other desserts.A full breakfast is served daily. Meanwhile, Dutch Valley Meats

in Chesterville, located on thenorth side of Illinois Route 133, in-vites both local campers and thoseheading for home to stop in forsome of the finest, freshest selec-tions available today. The businessfeatures a wide variety of freshmeats, including offerings thatcome from local farms, such as

wood-smoked sausages and bacon. Looking for a variety of quality outdoor furnishings to decorate a lawn,

porch or patio? If so, then visit EMC Outdoor Furnishings on Illinois Route133. EMC offers shoppers a complete line of concrete ornaments, a selec-tion of pressure-treated wood items and poly-vinyl products in seven dif-ferent colors. Offerings include vinyl and wooden gazebos, arbors, swings,glider chairs, stationary chairs, benches, end tables, picnic tables, light-houses, aluminum windmills and many more.

Made From Recycled Milk Containers

Made From Recycled Milk Containers

Poly Furniture In Many Sizes Colors & Styles

We Also Carry Inspirational Art Gifts and Home Decor.

Located on Rt. 133 In Chesterville(217) 543-2894

EMCOutdoorFurnishings



TUSCOLA: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

Tuscola is a community large enoughto offer world-class golf, eclecticartisan collectives, antique treas-

ures and fabulous name brand shopping, yetit maintains a warm, small-town charmamid its quaint, rural setting. Tuscola’s cen-tralized location in the heart of the Midwestmakes it the hub of a diverse array of offer-ings — whether planning to spend a day, ora year, or a season, or a lifetime. The com-munity is ready to provide all the resourcesavailable to make time spent in Tuscola asuccess —and that’s exactly the point.

LOCATIONConveniently located along Interstate 57 at

Exit 212 and at the intersection of U.S. routes 36and 45.

SHOPBrand-name items, great prices. From Coach

and JCrew to UnderArmor and Chico’s, outletsat Tuscola offer a big-city shopping experiencewithout the big-city hassle.

ENGAGE In Tuscola’s quaint downtown, several spe-

cialty shops can be found, including Winterberryand the stylish Kelsey Furniture. Downtown Tus-cola has no shortage of local artisans. Vintage

Karma offers handmade goods, funky antiquesand unique jewelry. The Vault Arts Collective isa unique and eclectic collection of more than 80artists, with a diverse range of talents and medi-ums, working, showcasing and selling their work.

Tuscola: Get Right To The Point

The county courthouse houses the Douglas County Civil War display.



GOLFPlay a few rounds at Ironhorse Golf Club. An 18-hole links style cham-

pionship course, it is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by Golf Digest magazine .Ironhorse provides a challenge to the low handicapper and a fun, playablegolf course for the high handicapper.

EATWhether in the mood for a hearty, made-from-scratch meal at The

Pantry, an old-fashioned soda or the world-famous chocolate at Flesor’sCandy Kitchen, or farm-fresh produce at the summer farmers’ market,come to Tuscola hungry.

STAYNot only does Tuscola have small-town charm, it also offers all the mod-

ern amenities. Stay at one of the several reliable chain hotels, includingthe Baymont Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Super 8, located in town.

Tuscola 2016 Calendar of EventsDates subject to change. For more information,

visit www.point2tuscola.org/calendar.

March 5:Miss Tuscola Pageant. Tuscola High School at 6 p.m.March 5: The Vault Arts Collective Event. Meet the artists, live enter-

tainment and refreshments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more information, visitwww.thevaultarts.com.March 5, 6: Rural Life Antique Show. Douglas County Museum and

Tuscola Community building. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more informa-tion, visit www.rurallifeantiqueshow.com.March 18: Kiwanis Fish Frye. Forty Martyrs Church Hall.March 19: Kiwanis Easter Egg Hunt. Ervin Park at 9 a.m.April 2: The Vault Arts Collective Event. Meet the artists, live enter-

tainment and refreshments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more information, visitwww.thevaultarts.com.April 15, 16: Spring City-Wide Garage Sale. See the Tuscola Journal

for map.May 7: The Vault Arts Collective Event. Meet the artists, live entertain-

ment and refreshments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more information, visitwww.thevaultarts.com.May 22-25:Memorial Day Weekend Sale. Outlets in Tuscola.Every Saturday in June:Downtown Farmers’ Market. Downtown Tus-

cola from 8 a.m. to noon.June 4: Relay for Life of Douglas County. Tuscola High School from

Wheel’s Car Club Spring Fling Car Show



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noon to midnight.June 4: The Vault Arts Collective Event.

Meet the artists, live entertainment and re-freshments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more infor-mation, visit www.thevaultarts.com.June 4: Wheels Car Club Car Show. Down-

town Tuscola from 4 to 9 p.m. June 4: Erin Hettinger-Lindelof Annual 5K

Run/Walk. Ervin Park at 8 a.m.Every Saturday in July: Downtown

Farmers’ Market. Downtown Tuscola from 8a.m. to noon.July 2: The Vault Arts Collective Event.

Meet the artists, live entertainment and re-freshments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more infor-

mation, visit www.thevaultarts.com.July 3-5: Fourth of July Weekend Sale.

Outlets in Tuscola.July 9: Sparks in the Park Celebration – Tus-

cola’s 4th of July Event. Ervin Park.Every Saturday in August: Downtown

Farmers’ Market. Downtown Tuscola from 8a.m. to noon.August 1: The Vault Arts Collective Event.

Meet the artists, live entertainment and refresh-ments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more information,visit www.thevaultarts.com.August 29-September 1: Labor Day Week-

end Sale. Outlets in Tuscola.Every Saturday in September: Downtown

Farmers’ Market. Downtown Tuscola from 8a.m. to noon.September 5: The Vault Arts Collective Event.

Meet the artists, live entertainment and refresh-ments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more information,visit www.thevaultarts.com.September 19, 20: Fall City-Wide Garage

Sale Weekend. See the Tuscola Journal for map.October 3: The Vault Arts Collective Event.

Meet the artists, live entertainment and refresh-ments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more information,visit www.thevaultarts.com.October 22: Fall Flea Market. Tuscola Com-

munity Building from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.November 7: The Vault Arts Collective Event.

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or 1-800-800-8000

Historic downtown Tuscola.


Meet the artists, live entertainment and refreshments. From 6 to 10 p.m.For more information, visit www.thevaultarts.com.November 11, 12: Rural Life Antique Show. Douglas County Museum

and Community Building. For more information, visit: www.rurallifean-tiqueshow.com.November 26-29: After Thanksgiving Sales. Outlets in Tuscola.December 5: The Vault Arts Collective Event. Meet the artists, live en-

tertainment and refreshments. From 6 to 10 p.m. For more information,visit www.thevaultarts.com.December 2-4: Tuscola’s Annual Christmastown Celebration. For

more information, visit www.point2tuscola.org.December 3: Breakfast with Santa. Douglas County Museum from 8

to 11 a.m.

ATWOOD: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE

Named for the heavily wooded area surrounding a railroad line 27miles east of Decatur, IL, Atwood’s history dates to 1873, whenit served as a stop for steam train engineers who loaded the trains

with water from Lake Fork River. The engineers spoke often of stopping“at-the-woods.” A small community began blossoming on both sides ofthe tracks. In search of a name for their new hometown, settlers chose At-wood. Since the village’s humble beginning, Atwood has grown considerably.

Today, 1,400 Illinoisans call the land located in both Piatt and Douglascounties along Route 36 their home. Those residents cherish the samewonderful ambiance of a Midwestern country town that brings visitors toAtwood each year. A line that runs through the heart of Atwood on MainStreet serves as a boundary marker for the residents of the small farmingcommunity. Those living to the west are Piatt County residents, and thoseto the east of the marker comprise part of Douglas County’s population. A history lesson is offered at the Harris Agricultural Museum, where

visitors can learn about the history of agriculture and relive the past whileobserving the museum’s many exhibits. Atwood’s businesses offer shop-pers such items as antiques, furniture and dining. Mark calendars for Au-gust 19 and 20, the dates of the community’s 23rd Annual AppleDumpling Festival. Along with crafts, food, a large parade, a car showand various contests, festival attendees can bite into homemade appledumplings that come garnished with homemade ice cream. Other community events include Atwood’s 87-year-old annual Hal-

loween parade, the All-Around-Town Garage Sale weekends, and break-fast with Santa. For more information about the charming Village ofAtwood, call 217-578-2221 or follow the Atwood, IL, Chamber of Com-merce facebook page.

2016 Atwood Calendar of EventsDates of events are subject to change. Please call ahead for

specific information and additional activities.

March 26: Breakfast with the Easter Bunny & Annual EasterEgg Hunt. May 13, 14: All-Around-Town Garage Sales. August 19, 20: 23rd Annual Apple Dumpling Festival.September 16, 17: All-Around-Town Garage Sales.October 29: Halloween Festival & 87th Annual Halloween Parade.December 10: Kick-Off Christmas Festivities. TBA.

Soda fountain at Flesor’s Candy Kitchen.

Atwood: MidwesternCountry Charm

HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PMSUNDAY: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

101 E. Southline Rd. (Route 36 & Main Street)



In Sullivan, visitors will find peoplewith a strong sense of communityand connection to the traditions of

their agricultural heritage. The town iswell known for The Little Theatre OnThe Square, which historically broughtbig stars to the small community. Localresident Guy Little Jr. opened the the-ater in 1957, and this professional qual-ity theater continues to entertainaudiences decades later.The Little Theatre On The Square

has played to more than 600,000 ad-missions, including more than 130,000admissions to the Theatre for YoungAudiences series. This summer’s pro-ductions are Shrek the Musical, How toSucceed in Business Without ReallyTrying, Chicago, All Shook Up, SisterAct and Shear Madness.The Little The-atre also offers plays for younger audi-ences. Visit The Little Theatre websiteat www.thelittletheatre.org for showdates and times.Visitors are invited to stop by the

specialty shops in Sullivan. The Asto-ria Company Store offers amazinghomemade soaps, lotions and gifts and Gypsy Soul Revival has uniquejewelry, gifts and clothing items. For the best in primitives, cottage, coun-try and painted pine furniture, shoppers will enjoy a trip to The Briarwoodand Yoder’s Handcrafted Amish Furniture, which offer custom furnitureand cabinets. Other shops not to miss include The Flower Pot and SimplerThymes, located next to the new Sullivan Bakery. When you’re ready torelax, head over to the 5 West Coffee & Wine Lounge, which is connectedto Cathrine’s Gallery & Gifts.For outdoor activities, visit Buxton’s Garden Farm, which always has

a variety of produce, gifts and cut flowers, as well as pumpkins and Christ-mas trees in season. Stop by Okaw Valley Orchard to pick your own ap-ples and peaches in season or sample apple doughnuts and slushies in thegift shop. Sullivan Marina & Campground, as well as Sullivan Beach and

Bo Wood Access Area, are just a mile south of town with outdoor recre-ation for everyone.For updated information, visit www.sullivanchamber.com and “like” the

Facebook page, “Show Me Sullivan.”

2016 Sullivan Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information

and additional activities.

March 4-14: Beehive — The’60s Musical. A musical tribute to thewomen of ’60s rock, pop and soul at the Little Theatre On The Square. Formore information call 217-728-7375 or visit www.thelittletheatre.org.

Sullivan: Enjoy Specialty Shops And Quality Theater Productions

SULLIVAN: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES


Since 1957, The Little Theatre On The Square has been a Sullivan attraction.


March 6: Chic Studio & Boutique Crafting proj-ect. Coyote Cabins Retreat. For more information,email at [email protected] 12: Sullivan Singers Invitational. Sullivan

High School.March 16: “Most Likely to Succeed” screening.

The Little Theatre On The Square. Doors open 6 p.m.Screening begins at 6:30 p.m. Free admission, butmust have a ticket. To reserve tickets, visit www.the-littletheatre.org.April 8-10:Willy Wonka Jr. The Little Theatre On

The Square. Presented by the Students of the STARDance & Drama Program. The delicious tale of WillyWonka’s mysterious chocolate factory lights up thestage in this captivating fantastical story. For more in-formation, call 217-728-7375 or visit www.thelit-tletheatre.org.April 17: Chic Studio & Boutique Painting class.

Coyote Cabins Retreat. For more information, emailat [email protected] 28: Memorial Day Block Party. In front of 5

West Coffee & Wine Lounge and The Toy Bar. Formore information, call 217-728-4500.June 1-12: The Little Theatre presents “Shrek the Musical.”June 3: 2016 SCED Golf Outing. Eagle Creek. For more information,

visit www.sullivanchamber.com or call 217-728-4223.June 15-26: The Little Theatre presents “How to Succeed in Business

Without Really Trying.”June 29-July 10: The Little Theatre presents “Chicago.”July 4: July 4th Celebration. Carnival, parade and fireworks.July 13-24: The Little Theatre presents “All Shook Up.”

July 27-August 7: The Little Theatre presents “Sister Act.”August 10-21: The Little Theatre presents “Shear Madness.”October 14, 15: Oktoberfest. Downtown Sullivan. For more informa-

tion, visit www.sullivanchamber.com or call 217-728-4223. October 31: SCED Safe Trick or Treat for Sullivan.November 18, 19: Christmas Open Houses in Sullivan. For more in-

formation, visit www.sullivanchamber.com. December 3: Hometown Holidays Christmas Parade at noon.

Summer 2016

217-728-7375 or online at thelittletheatre.org for tickets

June 29 - July 10June 1 - 12 June 15 - 26

July 13 - 24 July 27 - Aug. 7Aug. 10 - 21

THE LITTLE THEATRE ON THE SQUARE

Sullivan, IllinoisPrices, Special Offers Expire Dec. 31, 2016

The Moultrie County Courthouse, centerpiece of Sullivan’s historic square.

Photo by: K. Sesko



Lake Shelbyville and its com-munities offer great recre-ation, attractions, events, and

accommodations for a day or for avacation. Shelby County plays hostto the southern two-thirds of LakeShelbyville and the U.S. ArmyCorps of Engineers Interpretive Cen-ter and offices. Lake Shelbyville wasdeveloped by the U.S. Army Corpsof Engineers in the 1960s and offersmany opportunities for visitors.Lake Shelbyville is known for

great fishing and hunting. There arehundreds of miles of shoreline, se-cluded coves and more than 11,000 acres of water to enjoy. For huntersand naturalists, three designated wildlife management areas, totalingmore than 6,800 acres, are located at the lake’s shores. There are fivefederal and two state parks with camping and boat launches as well asequestrian campsites. Four public beaches, three campground beaches,plus numerous recreation areas offer picnic areas, pavilions, as well asplaygrounds. There are also more than 60 miles of trails for hiking andbiking enthusiasts to enjoy. Shelbyville’s Forest Park includes an aquatic center that offers some-

thing for everyone in the family, such as a zero-depth entry pool, divingboards, slides, concession stand and sandbox area. The park also offers

picnic areas, pavilions, baseball andsoftball diamonds, a soccer field,athletic center, sunken garden, fish-ing lagoon and entrance into theGeneral Dacey trail.The park also features the Chau-

tauqua Auditorium, which is thelargest of its kind in the UnitedStates. Five Looking for LincolnWayside Exhibits tell the story ofAbraham Lincoln’s time in Shel-byville. One exhibit honors the “for-gotten debate” between Lincoln andAnthony Thornton, and is graced bystatues designed by John McClarey.

Also, in Shelby County, the village of Findlay is known as “The Heartof Lake Shelbyville.” The village of Moweaqua is home to the CoalMine Museum, which houses many artifacts from the area’s 1932 Christ-mas Eve coal mine disaster, and a Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibitis displayed on Main Street.The village of Cowden has one of five covered bridges in the state,

and hosts a rodeo as part of Cowden Pioneer Days annually in the vil-lage park. The village of Windsor recently celebrated its sesquicenten-nial and is host to the longest running festival in Illinois, the WindsorHarvest Picnic, going strong for 120 years. Strasburg is known for itsadorable garden gnomes and is host to a Looking for Lincoln WaysideExhibit. Stewardson delights with its “Hoofin’ to the Cow” 5K (cow at-tire welcomed but not mandatory), and Lions Club Celebration.Three Shelby County communities have received Governor’s Home-

town Awards — Stewardson, Strasburg and Shelbyville. ShelbyCounty’s three wineries provide an enjoyable experience. The commu-nities of Shelby County offer plenty of family friendly and affordableevents and attractions, perfect for a getaway.Visit www.lakeshelbyville.com or call 800-874-3529 for updated event

listings, attractions and accommodations.

2016 Shelby County/Lake Shelbyville EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead forspecific information and additional activities.

April 9-10: Shelby County Art Show. COE Visitor Center, Shelbyville.April 22, 23: Spores ’N’ More Morel Mushroom Festival.June 2-5: Moweaqua Pow Wow Days. Moweaqua City Park. June 10-12: Chautauqua Days. Forest Park, Shelbyville.July 2-4: Herrick Lions Club Celebration. Tom Davis Park.July 4: Fireworks. Dam West Recreation Area.July 18-20: Shelby County 4H & Junior Fair. Fairgrounds,

Shelbyville.July 29, 30: Findlay Walleye Festival. Downtown Findlay.August 6: Aquafest Water Safety Carnival. Dam West Recreation

Area.August 18-20: Windsor Harvest Picnic. Windsor City Park.August 26-28: Cowden Pioneer Days. Cowden City Park.September 17: Village Hog Roast & Gnome Fest. Strasburg.October 7-9: Scarecrow Daze. Downtown Shelbyville.November 18-January 1: Shelbyville Festival of Lights. Forest Park,

Shelbyville.


Lake Shelbyville: Beaches, Parks, Fishing, Hunting, Aquatic Center, Festivals Await

LAKE SHELBYVILLE

Lake Shelbyville offers miles of shoreline and 11,000 acres of water.


Bryant CottageState Historic Site

146 E. Wilson St.• P.O. Box 41Bement, IL

(217) [email protected]

Built in 1856, this four-room structureis maintained in its original condition

with original and period furnishings,providing a scene of typical family lifein the mid-nineteenth century.

HOURS:9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thurs.-Sun. Mar.-Oct.9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Thurs.-Sun. Nov.-Feb.Hours May Change - Please call to verify.

The Village of Bement, situated in the heart of Illinois between Cham-paign and Decatur, owes its birth to the steel plow and the spread ofrailroading in the Midwest. The John Deere plow allowed farmers to

churn the fertile soil near Bement at a time when tall prairie grasses ham-pered traditional tilling.On Christmas Day, 1853, three men on horseback, L.B. Wing, Joseph Bod-

man and Henry Little, rode through the area. Inspired by what they saw, thethree returned in 1854 to purchase as much land as they could afford, paying$1.25 an acre. The gentlemen worked closely with representatives of theGreat Western Railroad to bring a railway linking Danville with Quincythrough their land.In 1855 the site was surveyed, and a deed for the land was signed. Edward

Bement, of New York City and secretary of the Great Western Railroad, of-fered to donate a bell to the first church built in the area if the villagers agreedto choose “Bement” as its name. Mr. Bement fell ill and died before he couldfollow through with his offer. One hundred years later, however, in 1955,during the town’s centennial celebration, the Wabash Railroad, which inher-ited the lines of the Great Western Railroad, presented the Village of Bementwith a bell from a retired locomotive. The bell is displayed in the foyer of theBement Township Library.Veterans Memorial Park is located near the center of town. In the park are

state-of-the-art play equipment, a pavilion for band concerts, picnic tablesand a memorial dedicated to area veterans.Directly south of the park are two houses. The first is the home of Francis

E. Bryant, built in 1880, and the other is the single-story structure built forBryant and his family upon their 1856 arrival in Bement. Although the 1880structure, known as the Bryant House, remains a private residence, the ownerinvites people inside for a visit, when convenient.The 1856 structure is now called the Bryant Cottage State Historic Site.

This home has been preserved to commemorate a meeting between Abra-ham Lincoln and U.S. Senator Stephen A. Douglas. Although no debate tookplace in Bement, the details for the Lincoln-Douglas Debates were agreed toin the parlor of this modest, yet comfortable structure. A tour offers a glimpseof mid-19th century life.Looking for Lincoln? Don’t miss the Path of Information, located on the

grounds of the historic site. Be sure to collect a rubbing from each Lincolnstoryboard along the Trail — bring pencil and paper.Another famous American icon visited Bement 61 years ago, and that is

Marilyn Monroe. Bement native Carleton Smith met Monroe when he waspresident of the National Arts Foundation in New York City. He urged her totravel to Bement to become a part of the Village’s Centennial Celebration in1955, which was put on by Smith and the Bement Centennial Committee.American icon and Lincoln biographer, the late Carl Sandburg, also vis-

ited Bement.

2016 Bement Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. For specific details and additional activi-

ties, email [email protected].

March 20-27: Easter Egg Lane. Annual event to welcome spring. Ex-hibit reaches along the boundaries of Route 105, north and south. Featuredexhibit is located on the lawn of the Bryant Cottage State Historic Site.For more information, call 217-678-8184.March 26: Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Bement Health Care Center at 9 a.m.April 2: Alumni Volleyball and Basketball Tournament at Bement High

School. For more information, visit www.bement.com. June-July: Sunday Band Concerts. Veterans Memorial Park.June 11: 9th Annual Old Glory Festival. Food, entertainment, kid

games, shopping, vendors and more. For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.bement.com.July 4: Freedom Celebration. For more information, call 217-678-8491.July 10:Heritage Sunday. Bryant Cottage State Historic Site. For more

information, call 217-678-8184.September 30, Oct 1: Bement High School Homecoming. For more in-

formation, call 217-678-4200.November 11: Veterans Remembrance. For more information, call 217-

678-7121.December 10: Christmas in Bement. For more information, call 217-

678-8491 or email [email protected] 10: Bryant Cottage Holiday Open House from 5 to 7 p.m.

Past events have featured period music and horse drawn carriage rides.For more information, call 217-678-8184.

Lincoln Historic Sites And Family Activities AwaitBEMENT: PIATT COUNTY

B E M E N TA G O O D P L A C E T O C A L L H O M E

Log on to www.bement.com or call 217-678-8184 for more information.

Ê Ê Ê

VISIT US SOON!

March 20-27 Easter Egg Lane – 217-678-8184

March 25 Fish Fry - American Legion

March 26 Annual Easter Egg Hunt – Bement Health Care Center

March 27 Easter Sunday Sunrise Service With Potluck To follow

April 2 Breakfast Buffet – Bement United Methodist Church Alumni Volleyball & Basketball Tourney – Bement High School

June 11 9th Annual Old Glory Festival

July 4 Freedom Celebration

July 10 Heritage Sunday – 217-678-8184

Sept 30, Oct 1 Bement High School Homecoming – 217-678-4200

Nov 11 Veterans Remembrance – 217-678-7121

Dec 10 Christmas in Bement – 217-678-8491 Bryant Cottage Holiday Open House – 217-678-8184

JUNE-JULY: SUNDAY BAND CONCERTSVETERANS MEMORIAL PARK

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS - BEMENT - 2016

FOLLOW THE PATH OF INFORMATION ON THEGROUNDS OF BRYANT COTTAGE HISTORIC SITE




Monticello, the Piatt County seat, offers a breath of fresh air with atown square built around a refurbished courthouse in an area thatinvites guests to slow down and relax. The downtown was re-

cently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.On and off the Square, downtown Monticello’s one-of-a-kind shops, gal-

leries and restaurants provide a diverse array of things to do and see. Don’tmiss Skinner’s Coachhouse Antiques for its selection of antiques and col-lectibles. Visitors also will want to stop at Out Of The Blue for the largest se-lection of Polish pottery and gifts and enjoy its new location.Monticello was recently named a “Looking for Lincoln” community, and

a Lincoln storyboard telling part of the Lincoln Monticello story is locatedin the downtown Rotary Park. In addition to the storyboard in Rotary Park,there are now two other storyboards; one at the downtown Wabash Depotand one at the Railway Museum.The unique charm of nearby Allerton Park, an extensively landscaped park

mixed with ornaments, fine art and a manor house modeled after Ham Housein England, provides visitors with a grand tourist destination. The park wasdonated to the University of Illinois for public use in 1946 by Robert Aller-ton, the son of a well-established banker and livestock baron.The park is open to the public daily until sunset. The new bridge on the south

side of the park opened in the fall of 2012 and is a super entrance to the park.Formal gardens and more than 100 sculptures are located near the mansion.Allerton House is used as a retreat center and is the perfect place for a weddingor conference. The main facade of the 40-room Georgian mansion overlooks areflecting pool and meadow. The native forest, a 50-acre restored prairie, LostGarden (a wilderness garden) and 1,500 acres of woodland following the Sang-amon River with numerous hiking trails make the park a great attraction.

The Allerton forest supports an extensive animal population. Bird speciesunusual to the area can be seen in the forest, and the migratory bird popula-tion is impressive in the spring and fall. Allerton Park and Retreat Center isone of the “7 Wonders of Illinois.”The Monticello Railway Museum, an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organ-

ization, is another highly popular tourist attraction. The museum is locatedjust north of Monticello at Exit 166 off Interstate 72. Since the museum’sfounding in 1966, one of its goals has been to preserve and restore the na-tion’s railroad heritage, with a focus on the Midwest. Of course, the highlight of a visit to the museum is a train ride. Passengers

may board the train at either the restored Illinois Central Depot at the museumgrounds or the historic Wabash Depot in downtown Monticello for a roundtrip train ride. The museum is open weekends, May through October. For

Monticello: Railway Museum, Allerton Park Midwest Gems

MONTICELLO: PIATT COUNTY

Come see all that Monticello, IL has to offer. Great shopping, restaurants, a Railway Museum, and beautiful historic districts, in addition to the wonders of Allerton Park. It’s more than you imagined.

Monticello Chamber of Commerce | 800.952.3396 | www.monticellotourism.org

MONTICELLOexperience

the railway museum

allerton park and retreat center

shopping and dining

The Monticello Railway Museum



more information, visit www.mrym.org. Railroad history runs deep in the area. In 1880, the Wabash, St. Louis &

Pacific Railroad purchased the Chicago & Paducah Railroad, which was thenorth-south line through Monticello. Later in the decade, Jay Gould, knownas the famous “Robber Baron,” purchased the line. Gould lost control of theWabash in the late 1880s, and the subsequent owners found much financialsuccess. After a few years, a new station was planned for Monticello andbuilt in 1899. That depot was moved to museum property in the late 1980s.Eventually, the depot was restored and still stands today as a testament to abygone era in railroading.Along with Allerton Park, the community features Nick’s Community Play-

ground near the downtown area, and Lodge Park, which is a 500-acre parknorth of Monticello. Lodge Park offers camping, hiking and biking and servesas the site of the annual Independence Day celebration on July 3.Monticello has the added distinction of having two of its residential areas

listed on the National Register of Historic Places. North State Street and SouthCharter Street each feature homes with a wide array of architectural styles. Thedowntown area, Courthouse Square, has also been listed on the National Reg-ister of Historic Places. These designations were received after much work byMonticello’s Preservation Commission. The office of the Monticello Cham-ber of Commerce, located in the Old Wabash Depot, has guides available forthose interested in walking tours. For more information, call 800-952-3396 orvisit www.monticelloillinois.net or www.MonticelloTourism.org.

2016 Monticello Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information

and additional activities.

April 19:Monticello Business Expo. Sponsored by Monticello Chamber.May 14: Kirby Derby. Kirby Medical Center.May 7, 8:Mother’s Day Weekend. Monticello Railway Museum.

June 4: Polar Express Tickets go on sale. Monticello Railway Museum.June 16-19: Horizon Aerotow. Eli Field/Piatt County Airport.June 18, 19: Father’s Day Weekend. Monticello Railway Museum.June 23-25: Piatt County Trailblazer Rodeo. Piatt County Trail Blazers.July 3: Open House & Fireworks. Eli Field.July 3: Monticello Freedom Fest. Monticello Freedom Fest Folks.

Lodge Park.July 3: Fireworks Special. Monticello Railway Museum.September 17, 18: Railroad Days. Monticello Railway Museum.September 17, 18:Monticellobration. Monticello Main Street.November 11: Veteran’s Day Ceremony.November 25: Reds of Christmas. Monticello Main StreetDecember 3:Monticello Christmas Parade. Monticello Chamber.December 3, 4: Lunch with Santa on the Train. Monticello Chamber.

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CHARLESTON: COLES COUNTY

Rich in Lincoln history and full of family fun, Charleston is a great getaway destination allyear long. Whether visiting for pleasure or business, the city’s atmosphere is a perfectblend of historic past, modern culture, and progressive growth. Lincoln history is part of

Charleston’s charm.Charleston was established as the Coles County seat in the 1830s. The community grew with

the arrival of the railroad system. In 1858, Candidates Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglasheld one of their seven debates in Charleston. To commemorate this historic event, the commu-nity of Charleston completed the Lincoln Douglas Debate Museum, in 2000, at the Coles CountyFairgrounds.On the beautifully landscaped grounds of the Debate Museum, visitors can pose for a photo

with the life-sized bronze sculptures of the candidates, watch a film that tells the story of theCharleston debate, explore interactive displays, and even try on Lincoln’s boots and hat.Charleston is home to Eastern Illinois University, which was founded in 1895 as a teachers col-

lege. Today, the university’s campus boasts stunning architecture, beautiful landscaping, and ex-cellent collegiate sports and fine arts performances.The Doudna Fine Arts Center is Eastern Illinois University’s architectural landmark. Designed

by the internationally famous architect Antoine Predock, the renovated and greatly expanded fa-cility boasts several public arts venues: The Theatre, which seats 300; the Black Box studio the-ater, seating 150; the 600-seat Dvorak Concert Hall; the 180-seat Recital Hall; the 150-seat LectureHall; and several corridor art galleries. The Doudna Fine Arts Center houses EIU’s departmentsof Art, Music and Theatre Arts. For more information, visit www.eiu.edu/doudna.

Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic SiteLincoln Log Cabin, operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, preserves the last

home of AbrahamLincoln’s father andstepmother, Thomasand Sarah Bush Lin-coln. Although Abraham Lincoln was a resident of Springfield by the timehis father, Thomas, purchased this last farm in 1837, he remained in fre-quent contact with his father and extended family in Coles County. The siteincludes an accurate reproduction of the Lincolns’ two-room cabin that wasconstructed on the original cabin site in 1935 as a CCC (Civilian Conser-vation Corps) project.As an up-and-coming lawyer, Lincoln traveled the eighth judicial cir-

cuit, which brought him through Coles County regularly in the 1840s. Dur-ing his stay, Lincoln, always concerned for the welfare of his parents, wouldoften make the eight-mile trip south of Charleston for a visit. According torelatives, he regularly came bearing gifts including cash and notes due himfor his legal services in Coles County. One such gift was Abraham Lin-coln’s purchase of 40 acres of his father’s farm, which he promptly deeded

Charleston: Progressive Community With Links To An Historic Past

Mr. Lincoln often makes appearances in the Charleston area.



back to Thomas Lincoln for a life tenancy.A working, living history farmstead has been developed around the

cabin. The centerpiece of the site is the reconstructed Lincoln farm wheredaily, between May and October, interpreters go about performing themultitude of tasks involved in maintaining a mid-19th-century farm. Theinterpreters represent Lincoln’s extended family and offer many insightson the man they know not as president but as a son, a brother, a cousin, anda favored uncle. A second farmstead, the Stephen Sargent Farm, has beenmoved to the site to help broaden visitors’ understanding of 1840s rural lifein Illinois.In addition to experiencing an in-depth look at life in the 1840s, on se-

lect weekends throughout the year, a variety of special events showcasingperiod arts, crafts, and activities take place.One mile north of Lincoln Log Cabin is the Moore Home State His-

toric Site, scene of president-elect Lincoln’s poignant farewell to his fam-ily, in January of 1861, before leaving to assume the presidency.Today, Lincoln Log Cabin is an 86-acre historic site that is owned and

operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, Division of His-toric Sites. For more information on Lincoln Log Cabin State HistoricSite, call 217-345-1845, follow the site on Facebook or visit www.lin-colnlogcabin.org.

2016 Charleston Calendar of EventsDates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

April 9:Girls on the Run 5K. EIU O’Brian Stadium. A noncompetitive5K, with a family friendly celebration afterwards. Register online atwww.girlsontheruneci.org or call 217-234-9494.

April 14: What Women Want and more. Unique Suites Hotel, 920 W.Lincoln from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event focuses on promoting, encour-aging, and entertaining women. Visit www.charlestonchamber.com.April 22: Area 9 Special Olympics Spring Games. EIU O’Brian Sta-

dium For more information, contact Vanessa Duncan, [email protected] 22-24: Celebration: A Festival of the Arts. EIU Doudna Fine Arts

Center. Blacksmithing to watercolor, accompanied by live performancesand a variety of unique food vendors. visit www.eiu.edu/~festival.April 22-24: Children’s Art Activities at Celebration. 7th Street (be-

tween Tarble and Doudna Fine Arts Center) Hands-on art make-and-takeactivities for children. April 30: Sheep to Clothing. Lincoln Log Cabin, all day. Discover how

raw wool from the Lincolns’ own sheep is turned into finished cloth for useon the farmstead. Watch interpreters as they weave on the site’s mid-19th

Discover the Treasures of

Enjoy the famous architecture of “Old Main” on the EIU campus.


century Sargent and Martinlooms.May 7: 18th Street Spring

Block Party. 18th Street. Con-tact Home Again Consignmentat 217-345-4700.May 7: EIU Commencement

Ceremonies. EIU Lantz Arena.May 13, 14: IHSA Girls

State Badminton Tournament.EIU Lantz Arena and SRC. Formore information, visit theIHSA website.May 14: Lake Land College

Commencement.May 19-21: IHSA Girls State

Track Meet. EIU O’Brian Sta-dium. For more information, visitthe IHSA website.May 21-October 1: 18th

Street Farmers Market. 82518th St., Saturdays only, from 8a.m. to noon. Fresh produce,baked goods, flowers, and homemade items (as space permits). Livemusic. Interested vendors or musicians should contact [email protected] 21: Tour de Exchange. Courthouse Square. A 10-, 25- or 40-mile

cycling race. www.exchangeclubofcharleston.org/programs.html.May 26-28: IHSA Boys State Track Meet. EIU O’Brian Stadium. For

more information, visit the IHSA website.June 1: Charleston Farmer’s Market Square. Every Wednesday from

6:30 to 10:30 a.m. throughout summer and fall. Fresh produce, bakedgoods and music. Call 217-345-8018 at Roc’s Blackfront.June 9, 16, 23: Community Band Concert. Kiwanis Park Amphitheater

from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. For more information, call 217-345-6897.June 20:Muse Fest 2015. Between 7th and 8th streets on Jackson Av-

enue from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Celebrating local art, artists, music and en-tertainment. Bands Play all day long. Visit www.ctfillinois.orgJune 24: Charleston Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Outing —

“Buy Local-Play Local.” Charleston Country Club. Registration formavailable at www.charlestonchamber.com, 217-345-7041.June 26: Red, White, and Blue Days Bingo. North pavilion, Morton

Park, Division and Lincoln Ave., from 2 to 5 p.m. For more information,visit www.charlestonredwhiteandblue.com or call 217-345-7691 or emailat [email protected] 30: Community Band Patriotic Concert. Kiwanis Park Am-

phitheater from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call 217-345-6897.July 3, 4: Red, White, and Blue Days. Morton Park, Division and Lin-

coln Ave. For more information,visit www.charlestonred whitea-ndblue.com or call 217-232-1485.July 7: Community Band

Concert. Kiwanis Park Am-phitheater from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.For more information, call 345-6897.July 25: Christmas in July

Trivia Night. Fundraiser forChristmas in the Heart ofCharleston. Location TBD. Formore information, call 217-348-0430.July 31-August 7: 162nd An-

nual Coles County Fair. ColesCounty Fairgrounds. For moreinformation, visit www.cole-scountyfair.com.August 14: 39th Annual

Bluegrass Jam. Lincoln LogCabin from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Bluegrass and traditional musicians from Illinois and Indiana will con-verge at the site for an afternoon of jamming.August 20: Illinois 2016 Run for the Fallen. Charleston High School

track, 920 Smith St., from 7 a.m. to 1 pm. For more information, contactVivian Bales at 217-549-0117, Carolyn Cloyd at 217-234-8022 or BillLair at 217-345-9580.September 4: Grill on the Hill. Trojan Hill and Charleston Middle

School, Smith Drive, from 4 to 7 p.m. Block party that includes live re-mote from 104.3 “The Party,” radio station, September 17: Charleston Challenge Run. Hilly, scenic course. Start

time 9 a.m. For more information, call 217-348-0430.September 23-25: EIU Family Weekend. EIU campus. For more infor-

mation, visit www.eiu.edu/ union/family_weekend_schedule.php.September 24: 18th Street Fall Festival. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For

more information, call 217-345-4700.September 24, 25: Harvest Frolic Fall Celebration. From 10 a.m. to 4

p.m. both days. The Frolic 5K run and mile walk will kick off the festiv-ities. Experience 19th century life on the farm. October 21-23: EIU Homecoming. EIU campus and Charleston com-

munity. For more information, visit www.eiu.edu/homecoming.October 28: Torchlight Halloween Hike, Pumpkin Carving Contest,

and Wiener Roast. Lincoln Log Cabin from 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy Lincoln LogCabin in the dark. Event begins at the Visitor Center for a bonfire andwiener roast. November TBD: Yuletide Tunes & Treats, Dessert Buffet, Silent Auc-

tion & Music. Charleston Moose Lodge, 615 7th St., Call 217-348-0430.November 11: Charleston Chamber Lootery. Unique Suites Hotel from

5 to 9 p.m. For tickets, call the Chamber of Commerce at 217-345-7041.November 18: Band Together for Kids. Charleston VFW, 1821, 20th St. November 20, 21: Festival of Trees. Sarah Bush Lincoln. Enjoy the

glitter and glitz of the holiday season with fully decorated 7-foot trees, 4-foot tree wreaths and centerpieces, specialty items, live greenery and trees,entertainment, live and silent auction, and more. December 3: Christmas in the Heart of Charleston. Courthouse Square

Holiday parade, carriage rides, refreshments, window displays, entertain-ment, photos with Santa and more. For more information, visit Facebookunder “Christmas in the Heart of Charleston,” or call 217-348-0430.December 10: Old Fashioned Christmas on the Prairie. Lincoln Log

Cabin. Get away from the bustle of holiday chores and come out to thefarms to relax. Let the kids make some crafts, enjoy hot wassail and cook-ies in the Visitor Center, walk to the Lincoln Farm, smell gingerbread bak-ing and listen to Christmas stories.


Historic crafts come alive as the town honors the famous Lincoln/Douglas debates, one of which was held in Charleston in 1858.


Enjoy a visit to small town life in Oak-land, IL, located just minutes east ofInterstate 57 between Arcola and Paris

on Route 133. Relax and unwind on the villagegreen, which marks the center of communityactivity. There’s a plethora of things to see anddo, including golfing, swimming at the Oak-land pool and camping at one of the manycampsites in the area. Drive north to visit thescenic area surrounding Walnut Point StatePark, one of the most visited parks in CentralIllinois where visitors can enjoy fishing, camping, boating, and a snackbar. Additional camping is available at Hebron Hills Camping, locatedsouth of Oakland from May 15 to October 15. Call 217-346-3385.History buffs will want to visit the Landmarks Historic Compound,

which is the location of Oakland’s first doctor’s home and office. Dr.Rutherford’s home and office gives visitors a feel for what life was likefor a prairie doctor in the mid-1800s. Dr. Rutherford was Oakland’s con-nection to President Abraham Lincoln. Dr. Rutherford and Lincoln wereon opposite sides of a court trial. Oakland re-enacts this story each yearwith the Trials and Tribulation event, held this year on April 29 and 30and September 23 and 24. Visit www.matsontrial1847.org.Attend any one of the many other events held throughout the year.

Visit the kick-off to spring with the Easter Egg Hunt in March or visitone of the City-Wide Yard Sales held on the first Saturday in May andthe last Saturday in August each year.Oakland hosts the Run for the Health of It on June 11, a 5-K fun

run/walk that begins at the Oakland Swimming Pool. Join the OaklandChamber for the annual Jonah Fish Fry on July 2 at the Oakland LakePark, and then enjoy the fireworks at the Norton Knolls Golf Course.Visit Hummingbird Haven during the annual Hummingbird Happeningsevent on July 30. Fathers and sons are invited to attend the 21st Annual Father’s &

Son’s weekend on October 20-23. This four-day event encourages thebond between fathers and sons through outdoor adventures. Visitwww.fathersoncamp.org for more details. Plan to attend the Methodist Women’s Soup Supper and Silent Auc-

tion on November 5 at the Oakland United Methodist Church. Formusic lovers, join the Kings IV for several concerts — the 8th An-niversary concert with The Lester’s on September 16, and their Christ-mas concert on December 2 and 3.Santa arrives in Oakland on December 3, during Breakfast with Santa

at the Lake Crest Elementary School All Purpose Room.While in Oakland, visit one or more of the local businesses, the true

heart of the community. Visitors will find everything from building sup-plies to farm machinery, furniture, carpet, floor tile, paint and groceries.Those who love the outdoors and like a challenge may want to visit

the first-rate sporting clays facility east of town and try their hand atshooting sporting clays. Visitors will find it the best in the area.Visit Oakland, IL, where there is always something to see or do.

2016 Oakland Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call 217-276-2232 for specific in-

formation and additional activities.

March 26: Pancake Breakfast and Auction. Lake Crest School.March 26: Easter Egg Hunt and Chalk Art. Oakland Square.April 29, 30: Trials & Tribulations Dinner/Theater. Oakland United

Methodist Church.May 7: City-Wide Yard Sale, Villages of Oakland and Hindsboro.May 15: Little Miss, Jr Miss & Miss Oakland Pageant. Oakland High

School Gym at 6 p.m.May through October: Main Street Chil-

dren’s Theater Productions. On southeast cornerof Oakland Square, East Main Street.June 11: Run for the Health of It. 5-K

run/walk at Oakland Pool.July 2: Chamber of Commerce Annual Jonah

Fish Fry. Oakland Lake Park from 4 to 7 p.m.Fireworks at Oakland Swimming Pool and Nor-ton Knolls Golf Course at dusk.July 30: Hummingbird Happening at Happy

Haven. Ethington Property from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, call(217) 346-3363.August 27: City-Wide Yard Sale. Villages of Oakland and Hindsboro.September 16: The Kings IV, 8th Anniversary Concert with “The

Lester’s.” Columbian Building, Oakland Square visit www.thekingsiv.com.September 23, 24: Trials & Tribulations Dinner/Theater. Oakland

United Methodist Church.October 20-23: Father’s and Son’s Camp. Walnut Point State Park. For

more information, visit www.fathersoncamp.org.October 31: Halloween Party/Costume Contest. Lake Crest Elemen-

tary School All PurposeRoom. November 5: Oak-

land United MethodistChurch Annual SoupSupper and Silent Auc-tion. 13 E. Wash. St. December 2, 3:

The Kings IV Christ-mas Concert. Colum-bia Building on theSquare at 7 p.m. December 3: Break-

fast with Santa Claus.Lake Crest ElementarySchool.

“Trial & Tribulations Dinner Theatre”

–

“Father/Son Camp”

For details: http://www.matsontrial1847.org

For details: www.fathersoncamp.org

Oakland: Small Town Charm, History, Outdoor ActivitiesOAKLAND: COLES COUNTY

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Mattoon: Baseball, Bagels And Downtown Renaissance

MATTOON: COLES COUNTY

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Mattoon traces its history to the mid-1800s, when rail roaders con-structed the Terre Haute and Alton Railroad. When word spreadthat the Illinois Central Railroad was also planning to roll its

steam engines through the land that is now Mattoon, settlers began to arrive.

Today, Mattoon continues to grow and flourish, but retains its smalltown charm. In the last decade, downtown Mattoon has experienced itsown renaissance, as the Mattoon Depot has been chosen as the home of theMattoon Tourism and Art Department, completing a more than 10-year


Mattoon’s downtown mural.


renovation of the historical structure. The depot is just one example of afocus on downtown. Other examples are murals, streetscapes and thrivingbusinesses that are locating in the downtown area.Mattoon, located just a half-mile west of Interstate 57, is home to more

than 20,000 citizens who enjoy an abundance of recreational opportunities.Seven parks serve the community by offering lighted tennis courts, a largeoutdoor swimming pool, playgrounds and picnic areas. For lovers of otheroutdoor activities, Mattoon’s two lakes, Lake Paradise and Lake Mattoon,provide many forms of recreation, including fishing, boating, water skiing,sailing and camping.Mattoon is famed for its baseball. Nearly 2,000 baseball and softball

enthusiasts participate in leagues in Mattoon, making it the self-pro-claimed “Baseball Capital of the World.” In 2002, the city hosted the in-augural Cal Ripken World Series, a youth baseball tournament establishedby the great former Baltimore Orioles shortstop. The tournament featuredvisits by Ripken and many other well-known athletes, while teams fromacross the globe competed for the championship. Mattoon hosts thousandsof youth athletes each year, not only for baseball, but also softball, soccer,basketball, football and more.

Mattoon is also known for its hospitality and bagels. Get the best ofboth during the annual Bagelfest each July. After Murray Lender, ofLender’s Bagels, held a free bagel breakfast to introduce bagels to the city,the community leaders established Mattoon’s Bagelfest, an annual multi-day event. The festival annually draws about 40,000 people. Collectively,the group consumes around 40,000 bagels, which are served by volun-teers. In 1996, Mattoon’s own Lender’s bagel plant unveiled a 563-poundbagel creation that had been baked in a specially-designed brick oven. Thefeat was recorded in the 1997 edition of the Guinness Book of WorldRecords. This year will mark the 31st anniversary of the festival, and issure to be a great celebration.For those interested in Abraham Lincoln, Mattoon was a featured stop

on one of Lincoln’s political campaigns. In 1858, Lincoln, then a lawyer,addressed a crowd oftownspeople from theeast window of theEssex House hotel inMattoon. Just threeyears later, Lincoln,newly elected to leadthe country, wavedfarewell to his step-mother, Sarah BushLincoln, as his trainheaded out of Illinoisfor the White House.By that time, Lin-coln’s father, who hadsettled in the area in

1831, was at final rest in his grave at Shiloh Cemetery, which is locatedsoutheast of Mattoon in rural Coles County. Lincoln’s stepmother wasburied next to Thomas Lincoln in 1869.For more information or to sign up for the weekly event calendar, call

217-258-6286 or 800-500-6286, or visit www.mattoon.illinois.gov.

2016 Mattoon Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

April 23:Mattoon’s Annual Herbfest.June 11:Mattoon Artworks in downtown.July 4: The Indep en dence Day Celebration. Fireworks at the Coles

County Airport.July 19-23: 31st Annual Bagelfest Celebration. For information, visit

www.mattoonbagelfest.com. July 21-24:Mattoon Bagelfest Softball Tournament. November 18-December 25:Mattoon Lightworks. Enjoy the lights of

the season in Peterson Park.November 19: Mattoon Holiday Art and Craft Sale in the Lone Elm

Room of the Mattoon Depot. November 19: Mattoon Christmas Parade and Santa Chase 5k/half

marathon.

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Mattoon’s two lakes, Lake Paradise and Lake Mattoon, provide many forms of recreation.

Mattoon Holiday Lightworks in Peterson Park.


Discover historic Greenup, the “Village of the Porches” and the“Gateway to Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site,” as it lookstoward a bright future built on its ties to the past. Located along

Interstate 70 on one side and the National Road (U.S. 40) on the otherside, Greenup continues to climb into elite company as a tourist destina-tion by combining its rich history, beautiful landscape and plentiful artsand crafts shops with exciting new attractions.

Greenup is a village of 1,532 residents with architecture that gives it alook from a bygone era. The business district is listed on the National Reg-istry of Historic Buildings. Many of the store fronts have over-hangingporches from the second story. Some think these porches suggest the lookof a western town, and others see a New Orleans flair. The main street, orCumberland Street, is also part of the National Road. Greenup has the dis-tinction of having one of the longest continuous drivable sections of theNational Road still in existence.One mile west of downtown on the National Road is the Cumberland

County Covered Bridge. This 200-foot span timber bridge, built in 2000,is a replica of the original “Jackson-style” covered bridge. History con-tinues to be preserved in Greenup with the 1870s Depot and JohnsonBuilding; both are restored and were relocated along Cumberland Street.

Greenup is also located in the heart of Lincoln territory. Several loca-tions are marked with “Abraham Lincoln Visited Here.” Lincoln LogCabin and Fox Ridge State Park are located in Coles County, just 12 to 14miles north of Greenup. Greenup is beautiful throughout the entire year. In the spring, blooming

redbud trees line Cumberland Street, and the summer months find a vari-ety of flowers in bloom on each corner. The fall foliage is gorgeous, andduring the Christmas season, the overhanging porches are decked withgreenery and lights. For information, visit www.villageofgreenup.com.

2016 Greenup Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

January-December:Hootenanny. First Saturday of the month at 7 p.m.Greenup Municipal Building. Free musical entertainment.March 26: Easter Egg Hunt. Cumberland County Fair Association. For

more information, visit www.cumberlandcountyfair.com.April 23: Spring Craft Vendor & Car Show. Greenup Municipal Build-

ing. For more information, call 217-259-5301.August 21-27: Cumberland County Fair. Thoroughbred and harness

races, tractor pull, 4-H shows, musical entertainment, demolition derbyand a carnival for the kids. For more information, visit: www.cumber-landcountyfair.com.September 29, 30-October 1: Fall Festival. Greenup Chamber of Com-

merce. Queen contest, craft fair, garage sales, parade, food, music and en-tertainment. For more information, call 217-923-0100 or 217-923-3401.October 1: Demolition Derby. Cumberland County Fair Association.

For more information, visit www.cumberlandcountyfair.com.October 29:Halloween Celebration. Costume judging, cake walk, food

and games. Greenup Municipal Building.December 9: Visit with Santa. 6 to 8 p.m., Chamber of Commerce. Pic-

tures and treat bags for children.December 10, December 17: Visit with Santa. 1 to 3 p.m., Chamber of

Commerce.

GREENUP: CUMBERLANDCOUNTY

Greenup: Porches With A New Orleans Flair, History And Shopping

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This 200-foot span covered bridge is located on the National Road west of Greenup.

Greenup’s business district is listed on the National Registry Of Historic Buildings.


Greenup is a village of 1,532 residents. Its architectureis lost in time. The business district is listed on theNational Registry of Historic Buildings. Many of the

store fronts have over-hanging porches from their secondstory. Some think these porches suggest the look of a west-ern town, and others see a New Orleans flair. The main streetor Cumberland Street is also a part of the National Road.Greenup has the distinction of having one of the longest con-tinuous driveable sections of the National Road still in exis-tence. One mile west of downtown on the National Road isthe Cumberland County Covered Bridge. This 200-foot-spantimber bridge, built in 2000, is a replica of the original“Jackson-styled” covered bridge. History continues to be pre-served in Greenup with the 1870’s Depot and JohnsonBuilding; both are restored and were relocated along Cumberland Street.

Greenup is also located in the heart of Lincoln territory. Severallocations are marked with “Abraham Lincoln Visited Here.” LincolnLog Cabin and Fox Ridge State Park are located in Coles County just12 to 14 miles north of Greenup. Greenup is beautiful throughout theyear. In the Spring, blooming red bud trees line Cumberland Street,the summer months find a variety of flowers in bloom on eachcorner. The fall foliage is gorgeous and during the Christmas Seasonthe overhanging porches are decked with greenery and lights.

You’re invited to stay at one of our motels or bed & breakfast.Budget Host is at the Interstate 70 exit, the The Greenup Inn motelis located on South Route 130 only a short distance from downtownGreenup.

For more information, visit wwwwww..vviillllaaggeeooffggrreeeennuupp..ccoomm.

Come to Greenup for a fun-filled weekend and experience small town charm.Greenup is rich in history, antiques, crafts, shopping and food.

Greenup 2016 Calendar Of EventsDates of events are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information.

January through December Hootenanny: 1st Saturday of the month @ 7:00 p.m. Free musical entertainment

March 26, 2016Easter Egg Hunt: Cumberland County Fair

Association. Visit: www.cumberlandcountyfair.com

April 23, 2016Spring Craft Vendor & Car Show.

Greenup Municipal Building. For more information, call 217-259-5301.

August 21 – 27, 2016Cumberland County Fair

Thoroughbred and harness races, tractor pull, 4-H shows, musical entertainment, demolition derbyand a carnival for the kids. For more information,

visit: www.cumberlandcountyfair.com.

September 29, 30 – October 1, 2016Greenup Fall Festival

Greenup Chamber of Commerce. Queen contest, craft fair, garage sales, parade, food, music and

entertainment. For more information, call 217-923-0100 or 217-923-3401.

October 1, 2016Demolition Derby: Cumberland County Fair

Association. Visit: www.cumberlandcountyfair.com

October 29, 2016Halloween Celebration

Costume judging, cake walk, food and games.Greenup Municipal Building.

December 9, 2016Visit with Santa

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Chamber of Commerce.Pictures and treat bags for children.

December 10, 17, 2016Visit with Santa

1 to 3 p.m., Chamber of Commerce.

Cumberland County Covered Bridge

1870’s Depot

Overhanging Porches of Greenup

Greenup Military Museum

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From its unique annual Apple and Pork Festival to the life-sizedstatue of Abraham Lincoln standing in the downtown known as Mr.Lincoln’s Square, Clinton is a classic Midwestern town. Founded

by Jesse Fell and James Allen, a pair of land speculators, Clinton was oneof a myriad of prairie towns platted and sold by the acre in the mid-1830s.Progress was slow at first. In 1837, Clinton was no more than two log

homes and a log stable. By 1841, it had grown toprovide a small settlement for about 12 families.As Clinton began to blossom, DeWitt Countyenjoyed its early 1800s heyday as a stoppingpoint along the Eighth Judicial Circuit. Now-fa-mous lawyers and judges frequented Clinton,which is the county seat of DeWitt County.Among them were Abraham Lincoln, StephenDouglas, Clifton H. Moore and David Davis, allwho left their mark on the community and pro-vided fascinating memories for the city’s earlyresidents.As significant as the presence of these lumi-

nous figures were, it pales in comparison to theinfluence of the Illinois Central Railroad on thehistory of Clinton. The first locomotive chuggedinto town in the 1850s and transformed the com-munity, both economically and socially. By theend of the 1850s, Clinton had evolved from arustic frontier town to a thriving communitywith a business district second to none in its timeand place. The transformation became completein the 1870s, when the Illinois Central’s shopsand roundhouse moved into Clinton fromAmboy and Wapella. For the next 80 years,Clinton was known as a railroad town, and was the hub of railroad oper-ations in central Illinois.By 1920, more than 1,500 Clinton residents worked for the railroad,

which brought 11 passenger trains through the town each day of the week.In addition, the Clinton railroad yards handled more than 107,000 freightcars each month. Today, many elegant homes, some from that pre-20thcentury and early 20th century era, can be found near Mr. Lincoln’s Squarein the heart of Clinton.The spectacularly maintained homes that extend throughout the heart

of the city include Victorian-era mansions, frame bungalows, handsomeTudors, solid brick Cape Cods and big, boxy American Four Squares.Several houses in Clinton have been remodeled and are now home tounique businesses, such as a Victorian tea room and the C.H. MooreHomestead DeWitt County Museum. For more information, visitwww.chmoorehomestead.org.DeWitt County’s agricultural roots run deep. The numerous historic

barns scattered throughout the county stand as testament to this fact. Art,history and agriculture come together in The Barn Quilts of DeWitt Countydriving tour. Annual tours are held in the spring and fall, with additionalsites being added during the span of the program. Individuals are also en-couraged to drive the self-guided tour route. Visit Barn Quilts of DeWittCounty’s website at www.barnquiltsofdewittcounty.com or follow theirprogress on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BarnQuiltsofDeWittCounty.Many visitors come to the area for the pleasure of outdoor activities.

Clinton Lake, located six miles east of Clinton, was created by the IllinoisPower Company. The 15,000-acre area operated by the state of Illinois, in-cludes 130 miles of shoreline that trace Clinton Lake’s 4,900 acres. The

lake includes a beautiful 1,000-square-foot swimming beach, more than300 campsites, several boat and canoe launching points, a marina, and nu-merous hiking trails and picnic sites. Anglers frequently visit the lake toreel in some of its stock of striped bass, crappie, stripers, catfish andwalleye. Clinton Lake is well known for many lake-friendly fishing tour-naments. Water skiing, tubing and wakeboarding are also popular sum-

mertime sports at Clinton Lake. Hunters find recreational opportunities inmore than 3,000 acres of land around Clinton Lake. Species hunted in thisarea include deer, turkey, rabbit and pheasant.For a second dose of outdoor enjoyment, visitors can travel two miles

southeast of Clinton to Weldon Springs State Park. Early in Clinton’s his-tory, the site was a 40-acre estate owned by Judge Lawrence Weldon. Heopened the land to friends, associates, relatives and Clinton residents forpicnics, family outings and other recreational activities. Since that time,the land has seen many uses. It served as the site of a popular educationand entertainment program known as a Chautauqua, an open recreationspace used by the public, and served as a city park before finally becom-ing a state-owned, 442-acre park, offering recreational opportunities dur-ing all seasons.Weldon Springs State Park provides 75 camper sites and some addi-

tional sites for tent camping. The park also includes a 29-acre lake stockedwith bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, sunfish andbullhead. The lake’s two miles of shoreline is dotted with bank fishingplatforms. Two amphitheaters in the park provide a wonderful setting fora host of outdoor events. Weldon Springs is home to the Veterans PointMemorial, which was dedicated in 2004. Donations made in honor of vet-erans are recognized in various spaces on the granite structure. Inscribedon the base of the sculpture are the words “Freedom is not free.” The me-morial sits on a 4-foot high granite pedestal in the middle of a patio. Theplaque on the sculpture pedestal reads, “Dedicated to the memory andhonor of all veterans who have served, are serving, and will serve thisgreat country for the cause of freedom.”During a visit to Clinton, a stop at the historic downtown Mr. Lincoln’s

Clinton: Classic Midwest Town Rich In Lincoln, Railroad History

CLINTON: DEWITT COUNTY


C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum, Clinton, IL


Square would be well worth the time. On the north-west corner of the square stands a statue of AbrahamLincoln. According to local lore, it was on Mr. Lin-coln’s Square where he said: “You can fool all ofthe people part of the time, and part of the people allof the time, but you cannot fool all the people allthe time.”Located in the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage

Area, DeWitt County is an official “Looking for Lin-coln” community and is home to 10 Looking for Lin-coln wayside exhibits. Eight of these are included ona self-guided walking tour spanning nine blocks andfeaturing unique Lincoln-related stories and sites. Apermanent exhibit, “Lincoln in DeWitt County,” ishoused at Clinton’s Vespasian Warner Public Library.Lincoln’s connection to Clinton and DeWitt Countyis rich. He argued cases in DeWitt County on theEighth Judicial Circuit and practiced law in an officehe shared with a local attorney, Clifton H. Moore.Visit the Lincoln Heritage of DeWitt County websiteat www.lincolnheritageofdewittcounty.com or findthem on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lincolnher-itageofdewittcounty.While touring Mr. Lincoln’s Square, visitors will find themselves

amidst a variety of retail and service shops. Many more stores and restau-rants line Van Buren Street, located a few blocks to the south. They in-clude major discount department stores, nationally known drug storesand several popular fast-food chains. But notable to the community arethe unique dining experiences and quaint shops, which draw visitorsfrom near and far. After dinner, visitors may catch a box office hit at the community’s five-

screen movie complex, which shows recently released movies and throwsin some appealing extras. Guests will find free refills on popcorn and soda,discounted admission nights and free popcorn Thursdays. For more in-formation, visit www.eagletheater.net.An excellent public school system serves the Clinton area with neigh-

borhood school buildings located only a short walk from homes. Aschool campus housing the Clinton Elementary School, Junior HighSchool, High School, as well as the Maroons Sports Complex is locatednear Van Buren Street shopping and restaurants. An addition to the edu-cational campus is the Richland Community College Clinton EducationCenter. The expansion of the extension center is part of Richland’s con-tinued commitment to serve the students in Clinton and DeWitt County.The Vespasian Warner Public Library is located in the heart of Clin-

ton. The Frank Lloyd Wright prairie-style brick building was built in1906. In 1991, an addition was built to the original library building.Through the years, the facility continues to provide the community withinformational, recreational, cultural and educational resources and serv-ices, as well as meeting rooms, public computer access, free Wi-Fi andmore. For more information, visit www.vwarner.org.The John Warner Hospital assures visitors to the area prompt and

professional medical care. For more information, visit www.djwhospi-tal.org. Fourteen churches, representing most major denominations, dotthe Clinton community. The Clinton Community YMCA is a full facil-ity YMCA, offering many services for all ages, including an indoorpool. Clinton uses a mayor/council form of government. For more in-formation, visit www.clintonillinois.com. For economic development,the county-wide organization of DeWitt County Development Councilactively works to stimulate economic development with new and exist-ing businesses in DeWitt County. For more information, visitwww.dcdc-illinois.net.Visitors are invited to treat themselves to some tasty food at the na-

tionally recognized Apple ’n’ Pork Festival, scheduled for September 24and 25 (always the last full weekend in September). For a “howling goodtime,” there is Clinton’s Terror on Washington Street Haunted House in

October. Visit the event website at www.clintonhauntedhouse.com.Contact the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau at

217-935-3364 or toll-free at 866-4-DeWitt (866-433-9488), or visitwww.clintonilchamber.com. Brochures are available 24/7 from the out-door brochure holders at the Clinton Visitor Center, 1439 West State Route54, Clinton.Overnight accommodations in Clinton are offered at Sunset Inn &

Suites at www.SunsetInnandSuites.com or 217-935-4140, Town &Country Motel at www.threestarsrestaurant.com or 217-935-2121, andWye Motel at www.clintonilchamber.com/members/wyemotel.htm or217-935-3373.

2016 Clinton Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific informationand additional activities or check the online calendar of events at

www.clintonilchamber.com.

March 30: Clinton Chamber’s Business Expo. Clinton High Schoolfrom 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.May-October: Clinton Area Farmers & Artisans Market. Saturdays

from 8 a.m. to noon, Mr. Lincoln’s Square, downtown Clinton.May 19-22: Clinton MayDays Festival. Mr. Lincoln’s Square, down-

town Clinton.June 4: Barn Quilts of DeWitt County Spring Bus Tour. For more in-

formation, visit www.barnquiltsofdewittcounty.com or find on Facebook.June 25: Tour DeWitt. For more information, visit

www.TourdeWitt.weebly.com or find info on Facebook.June 28: Annual Golf Outing. Clinton Country Club.July 4: Clinton’s 4th of July Celebration. Sponsored by Celebrate Clin-

ton. Mr. Lincoln’s Square, downtown Clinton.July 4: 4th of July Fireworks. Sponsored by Celebrate Clinton. At dusk

on southwest edge of Clinton.September 24, 25: Apple ’n’ Pork Festival. Vendor information can be

found at www.clintonilchamber.com/newsletter/Apple-PorkVendor.pdf. ForApple ‘n’ Pork Festival information, visit www.chmoorehomestead.org.October 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, 31: Clinton’s Terror on Washing-

ton Street Haunted House. For more information, visit www.clinton-hauntedhouse.com or find on Facebook.November 10: Lincoln Heritage Committee of DeWitt County’s

Thanksgiving Dinner with President Lincoln.November 26: Clinton Annual Christmas Parade at 2 p.m.November 26, December 3, 10, 17: Santa’s House on Mr. Lincoln’s

Square from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Beautiful Clinton Lake.



Casey’s 29th Annual Popcorn Festival is scheduled for LaborDay weekend, September 3-5, in Fairview Park. Following arecomments from people who have attended the festival.

“The park is so pretty and clean. The people are so friendly. Iloved the pond and the fountains. Most of it is in the shade. I wishour town had a park like this. We were able to park close. We wentall three days. It is the most fun our family has enjoyed together.We will be back next year. We come from St. Louis every year —there is nothing like this there.”

“Our kids loved it. You don’t have to spend alot of money. I can’t believe all the entertain-ment is free. No beer tent. It is a family festival.There was so much to do. I liked the craft show.It was a quality show. We come for the enter-tainment shows. The show acts appealed to allages and repeated all afternoon. We saw themall several times. We drove from Kankakee, IL,got a motel and returned the next day. My hus-band likes the chainsaw carvers.”

“I can’t believe that such a small town has apark like this and puts on a festival of this scale.We will come back next year. The music is sogood and is different each day. We loved the’80s band. The One Man Band guy was fantas-tic. The band seating area is shaded — unbe-lievable. We go to a lot of festivals. This is thebest by far.”

“It reminded be of the old days. Everything was so laid back. Iliked the food, and the same people are here every year in the sameplace. Many of the food booths are local. We come every year forthe Jonah Fish Fry all-you-can-eat and it is economical. We comeevery year for the car show. It is huge and it is in the shade.”

“We like everything, especially the free popcorn. We came early forthe city-wide sales. The town has many of the world’s largest items.We will come back after the festival to see them all. There were alsohistoric points of interest in the neighboring towns.”

No flowery descriptive phrases, just people like you and me describingwhy they come to the Casey Popcorn Festival. We think they say it betterthan we could. There is nothing out there quite like the festival. Bring yourfamily this coming Labor Day weekend to Casey, IL, for the Casey Pop-corn Festival. See ad for a list of activities. Visit www.popcornfestival.netfor the 2016 schedule.

2016 Casey Calendar of EventsDates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

March 26: Chamber of Commerce Easter Egg Hunt. Fairview Park.For more information, call the Chamber of Commerce at 217-232-3430.April 8, 9: 12th Annual Moonshine Lunch Run. Moonshine, IL. For

more information, visit www.moonshine-run.com or call Jason Garver at217-962-0195.April 19: Culpepper-Merriweather Circus. Fairview Park. For more

information call Debbie Hutton, park & recreation director, at 217-932-2600.May 28:Horseshoe Tournament. Fairview Park. For more information,

call Wayne Davis at 217-932-2787.June 24-26: Casey Open Golf Tournament. Casey Country Club. For

more information, call 217-932-2030.July 4: 4th of July Celebration. Fairview Park. For more information

call Debbie Hutton, park & recreation director, at 217-932-2600.July 4: Horseshoe Tournament. Fairview Park. For more information,

call Wayne Davis at 217-932-2787.September 3-5: 29th Annual Popcorn Festival. Fairview Park. For

more information, call Bernie Morgan at 217-232-2676.December 1-31: Christmas in the Park. Fairview Park. For more in-

formation call Debbie Hutton, park & recreation director, at 217-932-2600.December 3: Breakfast with Santa. Casey Fire Dept. For more infor-

mation call Debbie Hutton, park & recreation director, at 217-932-2600.December 3: Candy Canes on Main. Downtown Main Street. For more

information, call Marsha Shonk or Jeanette Huisinga at 217-232-4955.

CASEY: CLARK COUNTY

Casey: Popcorn Festival Attracts Satisfied Visitors

WORLD’S LARGEST

R

SEPTEMBER 3-5, 2016

• LIVE BANDS

• FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT SHOWS

• ROVING WALKAROUND PERFORMERS

• Car Show

• Carnival

• Arts and Crafts

• Food Booths

• Jonah Fish Fry

• Chainsaw Carvers

217.232.2676WWW.POPCORNFESTIVAL.NET

Casey Fairview Park

Free Popcorn

Free Popcorn

16 20,3-5SEPTEMBER

PopcornPopcorn

Free Free Free opcFree opc

16SEPTEMBER

Casey celebrates its 29th Annual Popcorn Festival.



HOME TO THE GUINNESS WORLD RECORDLARGEST WIND CHIME, GOLF TEE, KNITTING NEEDLES, CROCHET HOOK, AND THE ILLINOIS ASA HALL OF FAME MUSEUM, THE POPCORN FESTIVALAND FAIRVIEW PARK!!!!

NOW FEATURING:THE WORLD’S LARGEST

ROCKING CHAIR!

Fairview Park features sunken and memorial gardens, ball diamonds, horseshoe pitching arena, picnic shelters, bandstand and beautiful ponds

stocked for fishing. Our beautiful campground has electrical and water hook ups, a bathhouse and fire pits.

Make plans to join us Labor Day Weekend at Fairview Park for the 29th Annual Popcorn Festival, a premier family event, featuring a carnival,

food and craft vendors, family entertainment and top-notch music performances. Don’t forget all the FREE popcorn you can eat!

Contact the City of Casey

Park Activity Director at 217 932-2600

for more information.

www.cityofcaseyil.org



Celebrating its 200th birthday in 2016, Crawford County Illinoishas something for everyone — historical sites, golf courses, camp-ing, recreational lakes and rivers, unique shops, family-oriented

annual events, museums, fine dining and excellent hotel/motel accom-modations. Visit www.cityofrobinson.com regarding events throughout theyear commemorating the county’s birthday.

The county offers three golf courses, including the beautiful QuailCreek Country Club, which has been host to PGA tour events. A forestpreserve, hiking, biking and horseback trails, sports courts, beautiful parks,fishing lakes, a conservation area and campsites are located throughoutthe county. The free-flowing Wabash River serves as the winding easternedge of Crawford County.Crawford County was formed on Dec. 31, 1816, and is located in the

east central portion of the state. The county was named in honor of WilliamH. Crawford, a United States senator from Georgia, who also served hiscountry as Minister of France, Secretary of War, and Secretary of theTreasury. He was also a prominent presidential candidate in 1824.Crawford County consists of several unique communities, each with its

own distinguishing features. Robinson, the county seat, is home to the latewriter James Jones, author of From Here to Eternity and The Thin Red Line,and is also the birthplace of the Heath Candy Bar. Hershey Chocolate, pro-ducers of the Heath Bar, along with Marathon Petroleum and Lincoln TrailCollege, all have facilities in Robinson. Retail choices include clothing,jewelry, antiques, home décor, specialty foods, floral and garden shops.Oblong, located on the western edge of the county, also offers a variety

of unique retailers. Collectibles, quilt and sewing supplies, handcraftedgifts, floral and furnishings can be found along Main Street in Oblong.The Oil Field Museum in Oblong is one of only seven such facilities in thenation. It features two buildings of displays, tools, books and literature,working models and photographs regarding the boom days of oil discov-ery in Crawford County in the early 1900s.Palestine is the oldest town in the state of Illinois still in its original lo-

cation. The entire business district is listed on the National Historic Reg-ister, and many turn-of-the-century buildings house art galleries, antiqueand collectable stores and gift shops. People come from all around to visitthis historic village full of rich history. Palestine is home to the Fife OperaHouse, the annual Pioneer City Rodeo and Labor Day Festival, and manyother history-rich events throughout the year.Hustonville, at the Wabash River Bridge on the northeast edge of the

county, features the Hutson Memorial Village. The “town,” made up oforiginal furnished log cabins, a log barn and log church, is named in honorof the Isaac Hutson family, who were massacred by Indians in 1813. Eachyear, the event is re-enacted, and several other family oriented events areheld at the complex throughout the year. Antique and specialty storesround out the village, along with a bookstore located in the house whereIllinois’ ninth governor, August French, was married.

Flat Rock may not be the retail mecca of the county, but it does get a big“thumbs up” when it comes to a great milkshake, fresh pie and friendlyconversation. The annual Flat Rock Homecoming is a great time to visit thevillage for memorable family fun. After a disastrous fire in 1912, an ordi-nance was passed that all new buildings must be constructed of brick. Thetown has more concrete sidewalk per capita than anywhere in the nation.Experience a lifetime of happiness in Crawford County. Everything is

at your fingertips — friendly neighborhoods, quality education, modernhealth care facilities, noteworthy recreation and premium shoppingchoices. Business opportunities are welcomed with open arms.Visitors are always welcome in Crawford County. Contact the City of

Robinson at (618) 544-7616 or visit www.cityofrobinson.com/tourism.

2016 Crawford County Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead

or visit www.cityofrobinson.com for more information.Throughout 2016: Crawford County’s 200th Birthday. Visit www.city-

ofrobinson.com for updates regarding events in the county commemorat-ing the 200th birthday of Crawford County.April 8-10: Community Revitalization & Beautification Committee An-

tique and Collectables Show. Robinson Community Center. For more in-formation, call the Chamber of Commerce at 618-546-1557.May TBA: 28th Annual Crawford County Arts Art Show & Sale. Fife

Opera House in Palestine. Original artworks of various mediums – somefor sale. For more information, visit www.crawfordcountyarts.org.May 28: Memorial Day Weekend Palestine Lions Club Fish Fry, Car

Club Cruise-In & Flea Market. Leaverton Park from 8 a.m. until the fishruns out. Fish/sides/hotdogs/desserts served to help the Lions Club with itsmany projects. Crawford County Collectibles Car Club will provide theopportunity to enjoy automobiles from the past and present. Browse the se-lection of treasures from various vendors. For more information, contactLion Bill Kite at 618-584-3338 or Car Club Member Herb Hess at 618-586-5472.June 23: Annual Robinson Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing.

Fundraiser and golf outing at Quail Creek County Club in Robinson. Con-tact the Robinson Chamber of Commerce at 618-546-1557.June 30-July 4: Robinson 4th of July Celebration. Features carnival

rides, food booths, nightly entertainment, car show, baseball and softballtournaments, and spectacular fireworks show in the Robinson City Park.For more information and the nightly entertainment lineup, call City Hallat 618-544-7616 or visit www.cityofrobinson.com.July 23-30: Crawford County Fair. Oblong fairgrounds. 4-H exhibits,

Crawford County Queen pageant, carnival rides, food booths, truck andtractor pulls, and a demolition derby highlight the week long event end-ing with a large 4-H auction. Visit www.crawfordfair.com.August 6: Hutsonville Community Days. Car show, entertainment, pa-

rade and food in downtown Hutsonville.August 12-14: Oblong Antique Tractor and Engine Show. Oblong fair-

grounds. Annual event that draws visitors from all over to view actualworking antique tractors and engines.September TBA: Fort LaMotte Rangers Re-enactment & Festival in

Palestine. Relive the days of yesterday and witness history portrayed in pe-riod costume. See, taste and smell the trades and lifestyle of the early1800s. Includes encampment, shooting, cookout, traders and musicians.Vendors welcome. For more information, contact Leonard Sisil at 618-544-2990, Jim Keller at 618-544-7734, Charlie Coombs at 618-544-7570,Greg Parrott at 618-544-4488 or Rob Byrley at 618-586-2493.

Robinson/Crawford County: Outdoor Recreation,Historical Sites, Shopping, Fine Dining And More

ROBINSON: CRAWFORDCOUNTY


September 1-5: 63rd Annual Pioneer City Labor Day Festival andRodeo. Pioneer City Arena, Leaverton Park and Main Street, Palestineplays host to a street fair, carnival, and the return of the PRCA full rodeo.Chuckwagon breakfast, parade, camping, junior-sized tractor pull, remotecontrol airplanes, lunch with clowns, flea market, mechanical bull rides,free entertainment at the band shell, town-wide garage sales, antique gasengine exhibit, swap meet and more. For more information, contact Pales-tine Chamber of Commerce at 618-586-2222 or visit www.pioneercity.comor email at [email protected] 30-October 1: Annual Heath Toffee Festival and Parade.

On the square in Robinson. Celebrating the delicious Heath Candy Bar,created in 1928 by Heath Brothers Confectionary in Robinson. FeaturesFriday night entertainment, street dance, and car show, and Saturday craftshow, live entertainment, toffee bake-off, and parade, capped off by a freechili supper. For more information, call 618-546-1557.October 1, 2: 14th Annual Wabash Valley Wine & Art Festival in Pales-

tine. Several wineries provide various wines for tasting. Stroll Main Streetand enjoy artworks from numerous artists from the Wabash Valley area.Some may be purchased. Food booths and live entertainment. Saturdayfrom 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information,contact Susan Goodwine at 618-586-2035.October 29: 50th Annual Oblong Fall Follies and “Spooktacular”

Bandfest and Parade. Features nighttime parade, band field competition,food, crafts, and entertainment on the square in Oblong. For more infor-mation, call 618-592-4355.November 18, 19, 20: Christmas displays lighting on the square in

downtown Robinson. Santa arrives, food booths, games for kids, train ride,silent auction of decorated Christmas trees, and more. For more informa-tion, call the Chamber of Commerce at 618-546-1557.November 19:Weekend before Thanksgiving Palestine Preservation Proj-

ects Society Cookie Walk. Fife Opera House. Begins at 9 a.m. Browse tablesof homemade cookies for purchase. Contact Nita Jochim at 618-586-2427.

November 19: Weekend before Thanksgiving Crawford County Re-tailer’s Holiday Open Houses. Begins at 9 a.m. Travel Route 33 throughRobinson and Palestine to find that perfect Christmas gift or secure thatelusive item. Find great bargains. For more information, contact RobinsonArea Chamber of Commerce at 618-546-1557.November 25: Leaverton Park Holiday Lighting Festival at 5 p.m.

Leaverton Park comes alive with more than 40,000 lights and displays.Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies with Santa, listen to area church choirsand singing groups caroling. Watch the fireworks and enjoy cornbread andbeans, hotdogs and desserts served by the Lions Club. For more informa-tion, contact Palestine Chamber of Commerce at 618-586-2222.December 31, 2016: Crawford County’s 200th Birthday. Visit

www.cityofrobinson.com regarding events throughout the year commem-orating the county’s birthday.

Pelican Cove Aquatic Park at the Robinson City Pool



Located in Central Illinois where Interstate 57 meets I-70, the cityof Effingham has something for everyone. With 18 hotels andmore than 65 restaurants, Effingham provides the very best in

service and hospitality. The Effingham Performance Center, Cross

at the Crossroads, Firefly Grill, Corvette Mu-seum, Tuscan Hills Winery, Hodgson MillStore, Kluthe Aquatic Complex, Lake Saraand John Boos & Co. Showroom are just afew of the many attractions that make Effin-gham a tourism destination for thousands oftravelers each year.The city also hosts several annual events

including the Corvette Funfest hosted byMid America Motorworks in September,Wonderland in Lights in December, the Arti-san Fair in May and Funfest for VWs inJune. Also, don’t miss the Moccasin CreekFestival in June and the EffinHAM JAM inJuly. Effingham and surrounding area attrac-tions include:The Effingham Performance Center:

Located on the north side of Effinghamalong Outerbelt West, is a 1,564-seat theaterthat hosts 30 performances a year. Local, re-gional, and national acts are scheduled toperform, with categories including country,southern gospel, pop/top 40, contemporaryChristian, comedy, jazz, dance, classical, andbluegrass. This year’s acts include REOSpeedwagon, Styx, Last Comic Standing andBranson on the Road. Visit www.theEPC.orgor find tickets on Ticketmaster.The Cross at the Crossroads: Located

on the south side of Effingham, the crossstands 19 stories tall alongside one of America’s most traveled Interstatecorridors. Approximately 53,600 people view the 198-foot tall symbol oflove and hope each day. The open arms of the cross, which expand 113feet, are a welcoming signal to approaching travelers. Visitwww.crossusa.org.My Garage Corvette Museum: Located on the northeast side of Eff-

ingham, My Garage Corvette Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum thathouses vintage Corvettes and Volkswagens and thousands of pieces of

Corvette history and memorabilia. No admission charge, open seven daysa week. Visit www.mamotorworks.com.Heartland Classics: Located off Exit 160, is a 30,000-square-foot

showroom filled with over 200 classic carsand motorcycles. Heartland Classics hasitems that are available for purchase as wellas museum items. The showroom is openMonday through Friday and is free of charge.Sculpture on the Avenues: Sculptures on

the Avenues is an annual outdoor art exhibitthat brings an array of artwork to downtownEffingham and features some of the Mid-west’s best-known and unknown sculptors.Going into its 18th year, Sculpture on the Av-enues is a self-guided walking tour that windsthrough downtown Effingham. Come explorethe sculptures that have transformed the city’savenues into an art gallery. Visit www.visit-effinghamil.com or call 217-342-5310.Firefly Grill: Firefly Grill is a modern

roadhouse restaurant located on the shores ofKristie Lake. Chef Niall Campbell and hiswife, Kristie, own and operate this oasis ofAmerican fresh cuisine in the heart of theMidwest. It has been recognized for its ef-forts in going green, its unique events, and itsbeautiful rural setting. Garden tours andcooking demonstrations make this a muststop for group tours. Firefly Grill was re-cently named a “Delicious Destination” byEnjoy Illinois. For more information, visitwww.ffgrill.com.Legacy Harley Davidson: Legacy Harley

Davidson is located just off Interstates 57 and70, on Althoff Ave. “The Harley Barn,” as it is

known, houses new and pre-owned motorcycles, along with clothing, mer-chandise, parts, and much more. The folks at the Harley Barn invite visitorsto attend one-of-a-kind events held throughout the year. For more infor-mation on the store and events, visit www.legacyhd.com.Tuscan Hills Winery: Tuscan Hills Winery is located on Historic

Hills Drive, directly behind the Harley Barn. This winery features eightpicturesque acres, which helps bring an Old World Tuscan feel to theheart of Effingham. The owners are focused on creating elegant, ap-proachable and perfectly balanced wines of the highest quality. Winetastings and tours, along with space available for reservations, makesthis a must stop for group tours. Check out the winery’s website for itslive events each week. For more information, visit www.effinghamwin-ery.com.Effingham Visitor Center: The Effingham Visitor Center, located off

exit 160, offers services to travelers including maps, guides, andbrochures. Also, stop in for a free Effingham souvenir. Coupon and dis-count books are also available at the Visitor Center. Call 217-342-5310or visit www.VisitEffinghamIL.com.Wonderland in Lights: Each year, the city of Effingham and the Eff-

ingham Convention and Visitors Bureau turn the Community Park on E.Temple Avenue into a winter wonderland. The Wonderland in Lights isa drive-through light display that features a variety of lighted holidayscenes. Santa visits the Wonderland in Lights each Saturday to hand outtoys to the children. The display opens on Thanksgiving Day and endson Christmas Day. Visit www.visiteffinghamil.com.

Effingham: A Potpourri Of Sites And Activities Await Visitors

EFFINGHAM: EFFINGHAMCOUNTY

The Cross At The Crossroads



800-772-0750



Evergreen Hollow Park: Evergreen Hollow Park isone of Effingham’s four parks and offers activities forvisitors of all ages. The Kluthe Aquatic Complex, lo-cated in the park, includes a large leisure pool withwater slide and water play equipment. The park alsofeatures a tree walk with approximately 85 species oftrees indigenous to Illinois. Each tree is marked witha plaque including the common and Latin name ofeach species. For more information on activities atthe park, visit www.effinghamparkdistrict.org.Stang ARTs Studio & Gallery: Nestled in down-

town Effingham, Stang ARTs features art classes for bothchildren and adults, along with events throughout theyear, such as paint parties. Make sure to stop by and checkout the art gallery or book an event. Call 850-960-0106.John Boos & Co.: John Boos & Co. is the oldest

manufacturer of butcher blocks and metal tables in theindustry. The first butcher blocks were made in ConradBoos’ blacksmith shop in Effingham over 100 yearsago. John Boos & Co. Showroom is open to the publicfrom 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. JohnBoos Butcher Blocks are used by several celebritychefs, including Emeril Lagasse and Rachel Ray, who gave John Boos’blocks away on her talk show. The butcher blocks can also be found onpopular Food Network shows such as Chopped. Tours are available byappointment. Call 217-347-7790.Hodgson Mill Store:The Hodgson Mill Store was opened in 2014. Since

1882, Hodgson Mill has been grinding whole grains and making nutritiousfoods that are full of natural flavor but free of artificial additives and col-oring. For more than a century, its customers have been enjoying the tasteand reaping the health benefits of whole grains. The new store featuresHodgson Mill products, other local products and hard to find cooking gadg-ets. Along with the retail store, an education center will offer a wide vari-ety of classes from baking to healthy eating. The cooking center is nowopen and cooking classes are available. For a schedule, visit www.hodg-sonmill.com. Call 800-347-0105. www.hodgsonmill.com.Ballard Nature Center: The Ballard Nature Center is located just

minutes west of Effingham, nestled into a wooded area near NationalRoad, U.S. 40. Miles of wooded trails, dozens of species of birds, andthe natural setting offer a true outdoor experience. Dioramas and inter-active exhibits offer entertainment and effortless education on the floraand fauna of this region. The trails and outdoor area are open from dawnuntil dusk. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday throughFriday, and from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Call 618-483-6856.Lake Sara: Lake Sara is an 800-acre recreational lake nestled into a

wooded shoreline, encircled by a winding road. Also, visit nearby golfcourses, Cardinal and Fore-Way, just minutes from the lake. Visitwww.visiteffinghamil.com.Dr. Charles M. Wright House: The Dr. Charles M. Wright House in

Altamont was built in 1889. The 18-room mansion is now a museum thatfeatures original furnishings, including carpets. The doctor’s surgery,nursery and library are highlights of the tour. The museum is open Sun-days from 2 to 4 p.m., April through October. For a tour on other days,call 618-483-6397. Visit www.WrightMansion.org.Monastery Museum: The Monastery Museum in Teutopolis is a prism

into the history of the settlers of the Teutopolis region and the Franciscanswho ministered to them. The museum houses antique bibles, hand-scribedbooks, furnishings, clothing, toys and elaborate documents that offer aglimpse into the past. For more information, call 217-857-6404.Frye Pottery: Frye Pottery is located in a beautiful country setting.

Artists Tim and Pam Frye have been professional potters for nearly 30years and produce award winning ceramic art, as well as functionalstoneware pottery designed for everyday use. A restored dairy barnhouses their working studios and gallery with a selection of pottery piecesfor sale. Visit www.fryepottery.com.

The Effingham Performance Center is a 1,564-seat theater that hosts 30 performances a year.

2016 Effingham Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

April TBD: Blessing of the Bikes. 217-342-3494, www.legacyhd.com.April 2: Lake Sara Dam Run. Lake Sara, www.lakesaradamrun.com.April 15, 16: Nat. Fishing Lure Collector Show. www.nflcc.org.May TBD:Motorcycle & Auto Show. Legacy Harley Davidson, 217-

342-3494, www.legacyhd.com.May-October: Farmer’s Market. Saturdays. Downtown Effingham,

[email protected] 13, 14: Artisan Fair.Downtown, www.effinghamartisanfair.com.May 14: Spring Fling. Downtown Effingham, 217-342-4147.June 24-26: Moccasin Creek Fest. Lake Sara, www.moccasincreek-

festival.com.June 3-5: VW Funfest. Mid America Motorworks, www.funfes-

tacvw.com.June 17: Taste of Freedom. Downtown, 217-342-4147.July 4: 4th of July Celebration. 217-342-5310.July 22, 23: EffingHAM-JAM BBQ Cookoff, 217-342-4147.July 22-24: Mill Road Threshermans Show, www.millroadthresher-

man.org.August 29-September 6: County Fair. Effingham County Fair-

grounds in Altamont, IL. www.effinghamcountyfair.com.September 9, 10:Hobnob Harvest Market. www.hobnobmarket.com.September TBD: Altamont Schuetzenfest. www.altamontcham -

ber.com.September 17: Wine on the Lawn at the Wright Mansion. Wright

Mansion, 618-483-6397, www.wrightmansion.org.September 15-18:Corvette Funfest.Mid America Motorworks. 866-

309-3973, www.corvettefunfest.com. October 14: Chili Fest. Downtown Effingham, 217-342-4147.October: 15: United Way Gala. Thelma Keller Convention Center,

217-342-3824, www.effinghamunitedway.org.October 24: Halloween Parade. Downtown, 217-342-4147.November 24-December 25: Wonderland in Lights. Community

Park, 217-342-5310, www.visiteffinghamil.com.November 27: Hometown Christmas. Downtown Effingham, 217-

342-5310, www.visiteffinghamil.com.


MARSHALL: CLARK COUNTY

Experience Marshall — From the history buff to the outdoorenthusiast, Marshall has an experience waiting just for you.There are many attractions and sites to see throughout. Visitors

can start their journey by stopping at the Historic Harlan Hall. Pick upa copy of Tour Historic Marshall. In it, visitors will find their way toseven sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.A few of these include Lincoln’s law papers at the courthouse, a stonearch bridge, constructed in 1831, on the National Road that is still inuse today, and a 1938 Works Progress Administration mural in thepost office.Harlan Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and

is home to The National Road Welcome Center. It is located in the heartof downtown. The Welcome Center contains memorabilia from “theroad that built the nation.” There are dioramas, interactive mannequins,displays and kiosks depicting the rich history of the road in Marshall.The Hall is also available to rent for events such as weddings, reunionsand corporate trainings. Visitors won’t want to miss seeing the beautyof this restored building. In addition, the Marshall Public Library iscelebrating its 100th birthday in 2016.If it is outdoor recreation you’re looking for, Marshall has an abun-

dance of options. Lincoln Trail State Park and Mill Creek Park bring inthousands of visitors each year, and for good reason. These parks offercamping amenities, fishing and walking trails. Mill Creek also offersATV trails, horseback riding trails and cabin rentals. Both parks retainnatural habitats that are sure to provide a break from the daily grind.While visiting in the summer, join the fun at the Friday night band

concerts and ice cream socials at 8 p.m. on the courthouse square, mid-June through August. Marshall boasts the oldest, continually perform-ing municipal band in the state. Other recreational opportunitiesavailable in Marshall include nine holes at the Marshall Golf Course.In the case of a rainy day, stop into the Marshall Bowling Alley. It’sfun for the whole family and is open year round.Marshall has great activities all year. Visit www.marshall-il.com or

call 217-826-8087.

2016 Marshall Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

March 19: Gaslight Art Colony Artists Reception.April 7: Astronomy Program. Marshall Public Library.April 11-29: NASA Exhibit. Marshall Public Library.April 13: Career Fair at Harlan Hall.April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, Sept. 17, October

15, November 19, Dec. 17 : Gaslight Art Colony Artists Reception.May 14: Community Wide Yard Sale/Downtown Side Walk Sale.May 14: Evening Thyme Garden Fair.June 3: 1st Band Concert for 2016. Courthouse Square. June 4: Lincoln Trail Open Water Swim.June 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5: Band Concert.

Courthouse Square.June 22-26: Marshall Walldogs Project.July 8: Band Concert-Lemonade Stand Contest. July 9: Community-Wide Yard Sale.August 5: Last Band Concert-Marshall’s Night Out on the Nat. Rd.August 13: Community-Wide Yard Sale.August 14-20: Clark County Fair.August 26, 27: Clark County Antique Tractor Power Club.September 16-18: Marshall Autumn Fest.Month of October:Marshall Public Library 100 Year Anniversary.October 20: Halloween at Marshall Public Library. From 6:30 to

7:30 p.m.October 31: City of Marshall Frolic, Trunk or Treat and Trick or

Treat.November 26: Festival of Lights begins at Fairgrounds. December 3: HollyDays.

w w w . m a r s h a l l - i l . c o m

NATIONAL ROAD WELCOME CENTER LINCOLN WALKED HERE FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERTS

SERVICE STATIONS

COMMUNITY POOL MARSHALL GOLF CLUB MARSHALL BOWLING ALLEY

ANTIQUE SHOPS FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKSFAST FOOD/RESTAURANTS

FISHING

WILDLIFE

BOATING/CAMPING

S t a y . . . S h o p . . . P l a y !

June 22nd to the 26th 2016 A fun filled weekend for all ages

International Mural Painting EventInternational Mural Painting Event

Marshall: Historical Sites, State Parks, Music On The Square




The Decatur area offers so much tosee and do with antiques, family at-tractions, historic sites, museums,

nightlife, outdoor fun and recreation, shop-ping districts and numerous events for allages. Visit www.decaturcvb.com or call 217-423-7000 for a free Visitors Guide.

Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum: Lo-cated at 3635 U.S. Route 36-E., featuresclassic autos such as race cars, Indy 500pace cars, original unrestored examples ofsome of the finest automobiles built, andincludes an extensive Chevrolet memora-bilia collection. Call 217-791-5793 or visitwww.chevrolethalloffamemuseum.com.

The Children’s Museum of Illinois: Located at 55 S. Country ClubRoad, the Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits that encouragechildren to touch and interact. Focusing on people and cultures, the arts,physics/physical science, the ecosystem and health sciences, the museumis so much fun for everyone that visitors tend to forget it’s educational.For more exhibit details, call 217-423-KIDS, or visit www.cmofil.com.

Hieronymus Mueller Museum: The Hieronymus Mueller Museum’snamesake, called Decatur’s “unsung genius,” held over 500 patents. See

such treasures as the seventh of only eightcars manufactured by Mueller, located at420 W. Eldorado St. For more informa-tion, call 217-423-6161.

Macon County History Museum andPrairie Village: Located at 5580 N. ForkRoad E., each building in the village repli-cates prairie life during the 1800s. This in-cludes a replica of the log courthousewhere Abraham Lincoln tried severalcases, and one of only two matchingchairs still in existence that he owned andused in his law office in Springfield. Formore information, call 217-422-4919, orvisit www.mchsdecatur.org.

Rock Springs Conservation Area and Nature Center: Located at3939 Nearing Lane, Rock Springs offers a glimpse of the naturalforests and prairies that existed when early settlers first came to cen-tral Illinois. Included are birding and nature walks over woodlands andwetlands. For more information, call 217-423-7708, or visit www.macon-countyconservation.org.

Scovill Park and Zoo: From cheetahs and camels to meerkats andmonkeys, an exciting adventure awaits visitors at Decatur’s Scovill Zoo,located at 71 Country Club Road. Take a spin on the Endangered SpeciesCarousel and climb aboard the Z.O.& O. Express. Just a few steps awayfrom the zoo are a state-of-the art playground, the Scovill House, and Ori-ental Gardens with exotic plants, waterfalls, ponds and winding trails. Formore information, call 217-421-7435, or visit www.scovillzoo.com.

Mari-Mann Herb Farm: People who love the outdoors will enjoyMari-Mann Herb Farm, 1405 Mari-Mann Lane, one of the Midwest’soldest and largest herb farms. Mari-Mann offers lunch eons by appoint-ment, tours and a shop where a wide variety of natural herbal and home-opathic items are sold. For more information, call 217-429-1404, or visitwww.marimann.com.

Wabash Depot Antique Centre: Located at 780 E. Cerro GordoSt., the center is a 10,000 square-foot restored train depot with beautifulmarble columns and floors, stained glass windows, tube chandeliers andantiques of every kind. For more information, call 217-233-0800.

Decatur: Variety Of Attractions For All Ages

DECATUR: MACONCOUNTY

Mari-Mann Herb Farm is designated as an official Illinois herb garden.

Each year, visitors to Scovill Zoo enjoy a train ride.


Mini Abe's Decatur/Forsyth Mini Vacation!

202 East North Street • Decatur IL, 62523217-423-7000 • 800-331-4479 • [email protected]

Qualifying tour to the LPGAAugust 8-14, 2016The Decatur-Forsyth Classic isthe longest-running tournamenton the LPGA Symetra Tour. Thisyear, the tournament will takeplace at Hickory Point Golf Club.

Decatur/Forsyth Classic Symetra Tour Tournament

Mini Abe loved visiting the Decatur/Forsyth

area. Abe experienced quaint shops in a

charming historic downtown business district;

a full weekend of family fun; and a wide

variety of unique, quality restaurants.

Go to DecaturCVB.com to see all of

Mini Abe’s photo scrapbook! Come over to the

Decatur/Forsyth area and walk in Mini Abe’s

foot steps, be careful though, they’re small!

Don’t forget these other great events:

Mini Abe: “Don't Miss These Fantastic Summer Events!”

Giant Street FestivalAugust 4-7, 2016Razzle Dazzle Goodtimes

Parade, Film Festival,Wine Garden, 3 blocks of Arts & Craft Booths, 60 Unique Food Vendors,

Street Performers, 10 Live Show Stages and a Carnival!

Decatur Celebration!



NOTABLE EVENTS TAKING PLACE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR INCLUDE:

Central Illinois Jazz Festival: Held annually on the weekend of thefirst Sunday in February at the Decatur Conference Center & Hotel. Thisthree-day festival, features professional bands from all over the UnitedStates playing Dixieland Jazz, Chicago and New Orleans styles, Swing,Ragtime, Zydeco and Gypsy Jazz. Highlights are: “Patron Party,” FestivalGrand Opening, New Orleans-style Umbrella Parade, Pianorama and Ban-jorama, evening dance sets, late-night jam session, Jazz Brunch and Clar-inet Clambake. For more information, visit www.juvaejazz.com or call217-423-7000 for a detailed brochure.Farm Progress Show: Progress City, USA., adjacent to Richland Com-

munity College in Decatur, is the epicenter of farm technology during theTuesday, Wednesday, Thursday prior to Labor Day biennially in odd-num-bered years. More than 450 exhibitors bring their best new tools and tech-nology to show visitors from all over the world. For more information,visit www.farmprogressshow.com.Decatur Celebration: Free family street festival covering 22 square

blocks of downtown Decatur, which are closed from Friday night throughSunday on the first full weekend in August of each year. Festival features10 stages with continuous live entertainment, a square-block area with ac-tivities just for kids, Razzle Dazzle Goodtimes Parade on Saturday morn-ing, over 150 acts and attractions to enjoy, food from every corner of theworld, craft and souvenir stands, games, carnival rides and big name head-line entertainment. Visit www.decaturcelebration.com.Arts in Central Park: Features art in every form, available for sale or

just to see. Paintings in oil, acrylic and watercolor; photography; pottery;textile art; handmade jewelry; and sculpture can all be found Fridayevening through Sunday the third weekend in September every year. Thefair also features food vendors, beverage service, live music and otherforms of entertainment. Visit www.decaturarts.org.

2016 Decatur Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. For more events and information,

visit www.decaturcvb.com and click on “What To Do.”

April 7-9: Pride of the Prairie Spring Marble Show. Country Inn & Suites.April 16, 17: Gem and Mineral Show. Progress City, USAApril 16, 17: Spring Train Fair. Decatur Civic Center.April 28-May 1: Cluster of Dogs Show. Progress City, USA.May 12-15: Illinois Junior Academy of Science. Millikin University.May 13, 15:MidState Soccer Classic Cup. Decatur Soccer ComplexMay 21, 22:Millikin University Spring Commencement. Kirkland Fine

Arts Center (Millikin University).May 28: Forsyth Disc Golf Open. Forsyth Disc Golf Course.June 7-12:Macon County Fair. Macon County Fairgrounds.June 13-16: Optimists International Jr. Golf Tournament. Red Tail

Run Golf Course.June 16: Blues in Central Park. Central Park, downtown Decatur.July 7-10: ASA 12U Girls Tournament. Rotary Park.July 9, 10: Rodney T. Miller Triathlon. Nelson and Fairview parks.July 21: Blues in Central Park. Central Park, downtown Decatur.July 22-24: ASA Men’s D&E Slowpitch Tournament. Rotary Park.July 29-31: ASA Men’s Fast Pitch State. Forsyth ParkAugust 1-7: USTA/Ursula Beck Pro Tennis Classic. Fairview Park

Tennis Complex.August 4-7: Decatur Celebration. Downtown Decatur.August 5-7: ASA Wooden Bat National. Forsyth Park.August 8-14: Decatur Forsyth Classic. Hickory Point Golf Course.August 18: Blues in Central Park. Central Park, downtown Decatur.September 10, 11: Special Olympics Outdoor Sports Festival. Rotary

Park and Hickory Point Golf Course.September 16-18: Arts in Central Park. Central Park, downtown

Decatur.September 17-18: Decatur Fall Train Fair. Civic Center Arena.September 30-October 2:Millikin Homecoming. Millikin University.October 14, 15: IHSA Girls Class A & AA state golf tournaments. Hick-

ory Point and Red Tail Run golf courses.October 28-30: America’s Next Soccer Star Tour. Decatur Soccer

Complex.November 3-5: Pride of the Prairie Fall Marble Show. Country Inn

and Suites.November 19, 20: Midwest Taekwondo Championship. Decatur Con-

ference Center and Hotel.December 7: Christmas Walk. Downtown Decatur.December 11: Millikin University Winter Commencement. Kirkland

Fine Arts Center (Millikin University).

The Wabash Depot Antique Centre is over 10,000 square feetof beautifully restored marble floors and columns with stained

glass windows and tube chandeliers. The depot is on theNational Register of Historic Places. Wabash Depot AntiqueCentre in Decatur is truly a showplace with a lot of history.

Railroad Memorabilia • Elegant Cut Crystal • Depression Glass • Dolls • Books • Porcelain

• China • Art Pottery • Architectural • Furniture • Lighting • Paintings • Jewelry • Prints • Linens • Primitives • Vintage Hats

and Clothing • Silver • Toys • ToolsOpen Monday thru Saturday 10 am to 5 pm & Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm

Layaways, Visa, Mastercard, Discover • Ph: 217-233-0800 • Fax: 217-233-0801780 E. Cerro Gordo Street • Decatur, IL 62523

Just North of Eldorado Street/Route 36

The Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum features many classic autos.


Located where State Route 127 intersects with Interstate 70, lessthan an hour’s drive from downtown St. Louis, Greenville wasfounded in 1815 and is the county seat of Bond County. The

town’s roots in agriculture and religion have shaped its reputation as ahardworking, caring community.A popular draw is the Marcoot Jersey Dairy and Creamery, 526 Dud-

leyville Road. Operated by a family that has spent generations in thedairy business, the creamery has garnered national and regional coverage.Tour the farm’s cheese-making operations and dairy barns year roundMonday through Saturday.The American Farm Heritage Museum, on Museum Ave. parallel to I-70,

provides a hands-on historic view of American farming. It is also home to a15-inch gauge passenger train and a replica of Hill’s Fort, an early 19th cen-tury fort that served as the first county seat. The One Room School Museum,at Beaumont Ave. and Wyatt St., is open by appointment.Greenville College was founded in 1855 as an all-female school,

Almira College. The original Almira College building, 315 E. College,now houses the Richard W. Bock Sculpture Museum. Bock’s sculptureswere often incorporated into the work of architect Frank Lloyd Wright.Greenville is also home to DeMoulin Bros. & Co., a factory founded in1892 that, today, is a leading maker of marching band uniforms. The De-Moulin Museum, 110 W. Main, offers a look at the company’s origin asa manufacturer of fraternal lodge initiation devices.The Bond County Historical Society’s Hoiles-Davis Museum, 318 W.

Winter, showcases Civil War artifacts, vintage clothing and toys, andephemera related to local history. Abraham Lincoln’s 1858 U.S. Senatecampaign and Ronald Reagan’s 1980 presidential run brought both mento Greenville. Each site is marked.Greenville offers a variety of antique and specialty shopping. Recreational opportunities include Governor Bond Lake, the Kings-

bury Park District’s nature preserve, and Patriot’s Park.Visit www.greenvilleilchamber.org, www.greenvilleillinois.com or call

844-404-9272. Local attractions on the Web:

American Farm Heritage Museum: www.americanfarmheritagemuseum.com.Bond County Fair: www.bondcofair.com.

Bond County Historical Society: www.bondcountyhistorical.org.The Family Vine Winery:

www.facebook.com/TheFamilyVineWinery.Kingsbury Park District: www.kingsburypark district.com.

Marcoot Jersey Creamery: www.marcootjerseycreamery.com.Richard W. Bock Museum:

ww.greenville.edu/about/visit/bock_museum.html.

2016 Greenville Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific

information and additional activities.May 7: Car Cruise on the Greenville square.June 11: Train Collector’s Show. American Farm Heritage Museum.June 18: Greenville Graffiti Car Show.June 25: Hummingbird Festival. Stoecklin’s Orchard.July 4: Fourth Fest with fireworks.July 29-31: Farm Heritage Days. Amer. Farm Heritage Museum.August 4-9: Bond County Fair.September 10: Car Cruise on the Greenville square.Early October: Fall Fest on the Farm. Marcoot Jersey Creamery.October 1: Apple Day. Downtown Greenville.October 8: Fall Family Festival. American Farm Heritage Museum.November 24-January 1, 2017: Annual Christmas Lights Display.November 26: Come Home for Christmas downtown celebration.December 4: Annual performance of Handel’s “Messiah.”

Classic AmericanaCelebrating 200 years of community history!Downtown SquareClassic Car Shows Sears Kit Home TourDeMoulin Museum

World-Class Fine ArtsFind unexpected treasures!William K. Bock MuseumCollege Art GalleryHandel’s Messiah and Other PerformancesFactory Theatre ProductionsFall Art Walk

Proud Rural HeritageFrom farm to table...Farm Heritage MuseumOrchards & Tree FarmsMarcoot Jersey CreameryWineries

Outdoor AdventureGet back to nature.Lake SportsNature PreserveHiking TrailsCountry Roads for Biking

GreenvilleIllinois.com 844.404.9272


GREENVILLE: BONDCOUNTY

Greenville: Museums OfferWindows To Local History



Bloomington: Home Of TheAmerican Passion Play

The American Passion Play takes you to Palestine, 30 A.D. You'll travel with Christ,seeing the world as He saw it. You'll follow His ministry and life from the Sermon onthe Mount to the Resurrection and Ascension. You'll hear His words, as vital to younow as they were to the people of his time.

The American Passion Play, unlike other pas-sion plays, dramatizes Jesus' entire ministry, ratherthan just the events from the Passion Week on-ward. His teachings on faith, love, justice andrighteousness are still our best hope for solvingtoday's complex problems. The message of histhree-year ministry has a larger meaning for ourdaily lives than do the emotions of Passion Weekalone. The play is historically accurate. The set-tings and costumes re-create the first centuryGalilee. The text is taken from the King James

Version of the Bible, and the performers bring this magnificent language to life.This year, 2016, is the 93rd season. The American Passion Play of Bloomington,

Illinois was conceived by Delmar D. Darrah to show the life and ministry of Christas a vital, living force. Although this is one of the oldest continuously performedPassion Plays in the United States, it is not a static drama. The production haschanged to reflect modern historical knowledge of the era but has remained true tothe teachings of Jesus.The actors are non-professionals with a spiritual dedication to their parts and

to the American Passion Play. As performers, they share in a community of faithwith the audience and give testimony to the contemporary power of Christ's teach-ings. The renovated Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (formerly theScottish Rite Temple) is the home of the American Passion Play.

American Passion Play

2017 PERFORMANCE DATES:Saturday, March 25 Saturday, April 1

Celebrating Its 94th

Anniversary In 2017

All performances start at 1 p.m. Visa/Mastercard

call for details: 800-354-9640309-829-3903 • Fax: 309-828-5557

American Passion Play600 N. East Street • P.O. Box 3354 • Bloomington, IL 61702-3354

www.americanpassionplay.org

For 2016 Performances,

Saturday, April 8 Sunday, April 9

Saturday, April 22

BLOOMINGTON: MCLEANCO.

Paris, IL, is one of the Midwest’s best kept community secrets.A town whose values might have been painted by NormanRockwell, Paris has been recently designated as a Looking For

Lincoln community and has many Lincoln stories to share withtourists. We have added many new and exciting events and activitiesto our annual calendar. Please visit our community, and be sure to stopby the Chamber of Commerce office, 105 N. Central Ave., forbrochures, maps and information, or call the Paris Area Chamber ofCommerce and Tourism at 217-465-4179.

2016 Paris Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

March 19: Chamber St. Patricks Celebration.May 21: Shakespeare In the Park. Twin Lakes Park, hosted by Paris

Public Library at 6 p.m.Each Thursday June-August:Music in the Park.Each Saturday June-Sept.: Downtown Paris Farmer’s Market.June 10-12: Shrine BBQ. Parade at 2 p.m. on June 11.June 25: 4-H BBQ. Edgar County Fairgrounds from 4 to 7 p.m.July 4: 4th of July Fireworks at Twin Lakes and activities at the

American Legion.July 9: Chamber Edgar County Crazy Dayz.July 22-27: 4-H Fair. Edgar County 4-H Fairgrounds. Extension

office 465-5379.July 23-30: Edgar County Fair. Edgar County Fairgrounds.August 6: Cancer Relay for Life.September 18: Little Honeybee King and Queen Pageant. Twin

Lakes Pavilion at 2 p.m.September 23-25: Honeybee Festival. Parade at 11 a.m. Saturday

-Roger Thomas (217-466-1175). Honeybee Downtown (217-822-9283) – Richard Yates (217-465-8402). Food – Joe Scheiner (217-808-0028). Fairgrounds General Information (217-822-1896).November 24-January 1, 2017: Thanksgiving-Holiday in the Park.

Twin Lakes Park.November 26: Chamber Christmas In Paris/Mistletoe Market

Place.

Paris: Lincoln Stories To Share

Lori’s Pins ‘n Needles“Quilters’ Headquarters”

Just 30 minutes from Arcola

1122 North Main StreetParis, Illinois 61944(217) 465-5541

Email: [email protected]

MON - THURS9 am — 6 pm

FRIDAY9 am — 8 pm

SATURDAY9 am — 5 pm

Over 3000 Bolts of FabricBooks • Patterns • Classes– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Authorized Husqvarna Viking,Baby Lock, & Handi Quilter

Sewing Machines Sales & Service

PARIS: EDGAR COUNTY


Conveniently located between Springfield, IL, and St. Louis, MO,Jacksonville is a thriving community, rich in historical treasures,unparalleled educational institutions, growing businesses and hos-

pitality all its own.For the history lovers, the city’s rich heritage includes numerous inter-

esting sites that help make the past relevant to allgenerations. Come follow in the footsteps of Abra-ham Lincoln through historic Jacksonville. See theactual places and hear the real stories of Lincoln astold by his friends and associates, while Looking ForLincoln in Jacksonville. Or, visit one of the manyUnderground Railroad sites, including WoodlawnFarm and also some of our historic homes. Jack-sonville was one of the many stations along the Un-derground Railroad and one of the busiest during themid-1800s. Although most are private residences,many of the homes used in the Underground Rail-road can still be seen in Jacksonville, includingWoodlawn Farm, the showcase homestead of Jack-sonville’s extensive Underground Railroad network,which visitors can experience first-hand. Lastly, atrip to Jacksonville is not complete without a visit tothe historic Gov. Joseph Duncan Mansion, the onlygovernor’s mansion still standing in the state (otherthan in Springfield, of course).For visitors who would like to explore their “artsy”

side, visit the beautiful grand structure of the David Strawn Art Gallery.This gallery features monthly changing art exhibits and permanent col-lections which include displays of Miriam Cowgur Allen doll collections.The Jacksonville Symphony Society is one of the top orchestras in thestate, and visitors can even catch a live theater production with the famousJacksonville Theatre Guild.No visit in Jacksonville is complete without visiting the newly restored

downtown. Visitors will find entertainment, dining and shopping all in theheart of this downtown community.There is no lack of sports and recreation in the Jacksonville Area. Mul-

tiple golf courses, an award winning lake for fishing, parks, campgrounds,and athletic opportunities are just moments away. Visitors will find muchto do, both night and day.Staying one night or even a week? Jacksonville offers national brand ho-

tels, as well as a locally-owned bed and breakfast in the historical part oftown. Want to camp? Jacksonville has three great locations that individu-als and/or family can enjoy. All provide a good night’s sleep.

Choices are numerous and visitors will be sure to have fun, and maybeeven learn a few things, too. Further information is available by callingThe Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-593-5678 orvisit jacksonvilleil.org.

2016 Jacksonville Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead tospecific information and additional activities.

May 14: Downtown Celebration. A festive dayof music, food and fun in the heart of Jacksonville’sdowntown.June 24-26: The Crazy Horse Bluegrass Festi-

val. Crazy Horse Campground. July 3, 4: 4th of July Celebration and Parade.

Nichols Park. Two-day celebration beginning at 6p.m. on July 3rd and ending after fireworks on July4th. Parade, concessions, kid’s events, live enter-tainment, fireworks and more. July 6-10: 69th Annual Morgan County Fair.

Games, rides and big band entertainment, MorganCounty Fairgrounds. Check calendar at www.jack-sonvilleil.org for concert information. July 29, 30: River County Quilt Show. Jack-

sonville High School. August 4: DAR Annual Ice Cream Social on the

lawn of the Gov. Duncan Mansion. Benefits the maintenance/refurbish-ing of the mansion. August 5: Jacksonville Pilot Club’s 7th Annual “Dancing with the

Stars.” Hamilton’s Banquet Facility. August 5, 6: Jacksonville Main Street’s Fine Arts Festival. Downtown

Jacksonville. September 3-5: 18th Annual Prairieland Chautauqua. First Christian

Church, Jacksonville. September 17: 32nd Annual Cruise Nite and Car Show. One of the

area’s largest cruise nights. September 23-25: 47th Annual Prairie Land Heritage Museum Steam

Show & Fall Festival Days. Prairieland Heritage Grounds. October 1: Oktoberfest. Morgan County Fairgrounds. October 22: Jacksonville Main Street’s Pumpkin Fest. Join us in the

historic downtown square for a day of family fun. December 4: Pilot Club’s 33rd Annual Holiday Home Walk & Tea.

Event sponsored by the International Pilot Club of Jacksonville.

Jacksonville: Visit Lincoln And Civil War Historical Sites

JACKSONVILLE: MORGANCOUNTY


Experience real stories of Lincoln.


Standing in the foyer of the Old State Capitol, one might expect a youngAbraham Lincoln to come bounding down the winding staircase aftera House of Representatives session. The oldest remaining state capitol

building in Illinois is located at the intersection ofthe National Road (U.S. 40) and U.S. Route 51 inthe city of Vandalia. The restored building wel-comes visitors who want to experience the earlyyears of Lincoln’s career (1834-1839).Ten new Lincoln Wayside Exhibits have been

erected downtown at Rogier Park and the OldState Cemetery. These story boards feature lit-tle known facts from President Lincoln’s lifeand times in Vandalia. Visitors may not knowthat Lincoln proposed to a woman named MaryOwens before he met Mary Todd, or that Lin-coln and Stephen Douglas first met here. Also,Lincoln’s first official stand against slavery wasin Vandalia. The Vandalia Statehouse is openMay through Labor Day, Tuesday through Sat-urday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. postLabor Day.Located across the street from the capitol is

Lincoln Park, featuring a life-size bronze statueof Abraham Lincoln designed by world-renowned Lincoln sculptor, John McClarey. Directly north of the old Capitol is the Fayette

County Museum, located in the historic Presby-terian Church built in 1867. The building is on theNational Register of Historic Places and housesLincoln-era memorabilia and artifacts of the peo-ple living in the county. Of special interest is an original paper press from theCapitol, and visitors can hold a hand tool traced back to Mr. Lincoln that isetched with the initials, “A.L.” The museum is open Monday through Satur-day, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.One block west on 5th Street, visitors can see the only National Road In-

terpretive Center in Illinois. The National Road was the first and only totallyfederally funded road in the country.Here visitors can learn the history oftravel and transportation in the earlydays of the country. The Center re-minds visitors that Vandalia was theterminus of the National Road,which began in Baltimore, MD. TheCenter routinely adds exhibits to itsfine collection. The Interpretive Cen-ter is open Tuesday through Satur-day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.On the corner of the Old State

Capitol Lawn visitors can find theMadonna of the Trail Statue. This isone of 12 statues in the United Stateson the National Road honoring thepioneer women who walked behindthe wagons to open the west. Thestatues were donated by the Daugh-

ters of the American Revolution (DAR) and dedicated in 1928 and 1929.Vandalia isn’t just a place for history buffs or those seeking heritage in-

formation, it is also a thriving community of quaint shops, new restaurants,period style lights and benches, making for a relaxing downtown experience.Downtown shops include: Ali Marie’s on Gallatin, Country Folk, Gloria’s

Christian Supply, Habitat for Humanity Resale Shop, L&M Antiques, Lulu’sStuff and Such, Something Special Florist and Old Capitol Wine Cellar,Tiffany’s House of Style, Tiger Lily Florist & Gifts, and Words, Wicks and

Wood. In addition, there are five hotels, cabins, abed and breakfast and plenty of other interestingplaces to shop and dine throughout the city.Just south of the downtown area visitors can

walk along the former historic Illinois Central Rail-road to the beautiful scenery that is the KaskaskiaRiver. Visitors can enter the trail behind the FayetteCounty Health Department at 416 W. EdwardsStreet. They can enjoy the “Did You Know” signsthat are spread throughout the trail to learn the his-tory of the railroad, and about Abraham Lincoln’sinvolvement with the railroad in Vandalia.While staying in Vandalia, visit The Dutch

Prairie Mennonite Shops and Settlement Area,which are southeast of Vandalia and home tomany cottage industries. Handcrafted items areproduced at more than 20 businesses on theprairie, including fruits, flowers, vegetables, hand-made cabinets, furniture and rugs. A variety of re-pair shops, harness and tack and other servicescan also be found, along with a country store thatserves homemade lunches Monday through Sat-urday with its Saturday special being the amazingsoft pretzels.Lake Vandalia, northwest of the city on Illinois

Route 185, is a 660-acre lake with swimming,camping, boating/fishing facilities, and nature

walks that the entire family can enjoy. The beach has a bathhouse and pic-nic area. Many fishing tournaments are conducted each year, as well as theLions Club Fireworks on the weekend nearest to the 4th of July. Campingat the lake is available May through mid-October.Ramsey Lake State Park, 12 miles north of the city, has more than 1,900

acres for hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, camp-ing, picnicking and more. There are shelters, cabins and trailer spaces forrent. A small concession business is located in the park.In addition, Vandalia has multiple day spas and Indian Springs Golf

Course. Foresee Winery, the Buckstop 3-D Archery, and Sandy Run HuntCo., a hunting club with upland bird hunting and trophy whitetail, are also inthe area. At Sandy Run, special birds are chokers, pheasants, and quail. Dogscan be provided. The Kaskaskia Supply fire breathing dragon can be visitedat Veterans Avenue and Rock Island Avenue. Visitors can also enjoy morethan 60 acres of parks and walking trails in the area.For a complete calendar of events, call 618-283-2728, or visit

www.vandaliaillinois.com.

2016 Vandalia Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call aheadfor specific information and additional activities.

March 19:United Methodist Men’s Pancake and Sausage Breakfast. Wes-ley Hall, FUMC 127 N. 4th St. from from 7 to 10 a.m. No admission fee, do-nations are appreciated. Sponsored by First United Methodist ChurchMethodist Men Organization. For more information, contact Bill LaDage at618-367-2977 or email at [email protected] 19: Family YMCA of Fayette County $10,000 Raffle & Auction.

Theme is Kentucky Derby. American Legion, 321 S. 7th St. at 5:30 p.m. Formore information, contact Amber Daulbaugh at 618-283-1258.

Vandalia: Rich In Lincoln, Illinois Historical Sites

VANDALIA: FAYETTE COUNTY


Lincoln Park features a life-size bronze statue of

Abraham Lincoln.

Looking for Lincoln? A visit to Vandalia is a must.


March 19: Illinois Trekkers Volkssport Club Walk. Rogier Park. StartTime 9 to 11 a.m. Finish at 2 p.m. Start at Rogier Park Pavilion - 5K & 10KWalk. Leisurely walk through a scenic, historic, and/or interesting area overa designated trail. Map will be provided. Family oriented, non competitivewalk. Entry Fee: $3 per participant. Event open to everyone. Sponsored byIllinois Trekkers Volkssport Club. Event is held regardless of weather con-ditions. For more information, contact Andy and Sue Bacon at 571-345-8301or by email at [email protected] 25-29: Fayette County School Art Show. All types of art produced

by school youth K-12. Artworks Gallery, 301 W. Main St. Monday throughSaturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission free.Sponsored by Artworks Gallery. For more information, contact MarilynBeyes at 618-283-4866.March 27: Lions Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 2 p.m. at Sonneman Park, W.

Fillmore. Children ages pre-school and up. Free. Sponsored by VandaliaLions Club. For more information, contact Bette Stolte at 618-283-3529.April 19:Okaw Vocational Center Open House and Job Fair from 4 to 7

p.m., Vandalia Community High School gymnasium. Open House from 4 to7 p.m. at Okaw Vocational Center, 1109 N. 8th St. Event sponsored by Priority Staffing Group and the Vandalia Chamber of Commerce. Event willinclude meet-and-greet/interviews with Okaw Vocational grads and tours ofthe Okaw Vocational Center.April 30: Healthy Kid’s Day. YMCA at 9 a.m. Vendors welcome to help

plan the event. For more information, contact Amber Daulbaugh at 618-283-1258.May 7: Special Olympics Illinois Individual Soccer Skills Competition.

YMCA at 11 a.m. For more information, contact Amber Daulbaugh at 618-2883-1258.May 14:Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run. Registration at 9 a.m.

Vandalia Community High School softball and baseball fields. Sponsoredby YMCA. For more information, contact Amber Daulbaugh at 618-283-1258.June 6: Mobile Hearing Unit. Vandalia Walmart, 201 N. Mattes Ave.,

from 1 to 5 p.m. Free hearing tests. Children welcome w/parents. Sponsoredby Vandalia Lions Club. For more information, call 618-283-3529.June 18-26: Professional Art Show. Professional Art Competition. Art-

works Gallery, 301 W. Main St., Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m.to 4 p.m. Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission free. Sponsored by ArtworksGallery. For more information, contact Marilyn Beyes at 618-283-4866.June 18-26: Area Town & Country Amateur Art Show. Amateur adult

and youth art competition. Artworks Gallery, 301 W. Main St. Mondaythrough Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admis-sion free. Sponsored by Artworks Gallery. For more information, contactMarilyn Beyes at 618-283-4866.June 30, July 1, 2: Carnival sponsored by Vandalia Lions Club. Late af-

ternoon. Vandalia Lake, Route 185NW. For more information, contact: BetteStolte, secretary at 618-283-3529.July 2: Vandalia Lions Club Fireworks Display. Vandalia Lake, Route

185NW. at dusk. Sponsored by Vandalia Lions Club. For more information,contact: Bette Stolte, secretary at 618-283-3529.July 9, 10: Lincoln Heritage Festival. Rogier/Rummelin/Sonneman Parks.

Dramatizations and pageants portraying citizens and dignitaries of the Cap-ital Era. Civil War re-enactors. 17th Corps Field Hospital Overview of CivilWar Medicine and Army of Tennessee Field Hospital. 1800s baseball tourney, children’s activities, magic show, games and much more. Variousvendors. Battery G with historic artifacts, demonstrations, etc. Dance from8 to 10 p.m. at the American Legion. Event sponsored by Abraham LincolnHeritage Area Committee of Tourism Commission. For more information,contact Sandra Leidner at 618-283-2176.July 10-16: Fayette County Fair. Brownstown Fairgrounds, 386 Cum-

berland Road, phone 618-427-5285. For more information, visit www.fayet-tecofair.org.October 27: Lions Club Annual Halloween Parade at 7 p.m. in down-

town Vandalia.November 11, 12: Olde Tyme Christmas. Downtown Vandalia.

Vandalia StatehouseEarly Lincoln Sites

Museums & GalleriesHistoric National RoadRestaurants & Lodging

Golf CoursesParks, Lakes & Trails

VANDALIA HAS IT!

For a Schedule of Events or a FREE Brochure:VandaliaIllinois.com 618.283.2728



Litchfield, IL, is conveniently lo-cated on Interstate 55 and Route66, 45 miles south of Springfield,

IL, and 60 miles north of St. Louis, MO.This tourist destination satisfies the needsof both nature lovers and Route 66 fans.While traveling on Route 66, visitors

do not want to miss the opportunity tostop at Litchfield. Grab a doughnut atJubelt’s Bakery & Restaurant, which hasprovided tasty treats to Mother Road vis-itors since 1922, or have a delicious mealat the Ariston Café, one of the oldestrestaurants along Route 66. With satisfiedappetites, visitors can walk across thestreet and become immersed in Route 66and local history at the Litchfield Mu-seum & Route 66 Welcome Center. People cruising the Mother Road on a

motorcycle are invited to make a pit stop at Niehaus Cycle Sales, whichis just down the road. As dusk approaches experience a true drive-inmovie at the Litchfield Skyview Drive-In, the oldest continuously oper-ated drive-in on Route 66. Do not worry, if you are not able to make amovie, stop when you can and view the roadside exhibit. Make sure totake a picture of yourself with the giant screen behind you.When venturing into the heart of Litchfield’s historic downtown, visitors

will see the Litchfield Carnegie Library, completed in 1905. The library main-tains its original façade and renovations in 1995 allow the library to utilize

all three floors of the building.If a nature retreat is more your style,

Litchfield has what you need. Grabbinoculars as well as a camera and headfive miles west of Route 66 into theheart of Litchfield and visit Lake LouYaeger. There visitors will be engulfedby the picturesque scenery of a 1,400-acre public lake complete with picnicareas in multiple locations. Self-guidedhiking trails are available in ShoalCreek Conservation Area, where visi-tors have the opportunity to spot manyspecies of butterflies, birds, and otherwildlife. Campgrounds are conducivefor both RVs and tents, and personalcabins are available for renting. For equestrians, Lake Lou Yaeger is

equipped with horse trails and a newlyrenovated equestrian campground. Lake Lou Yaeger is a public city lakewith two marinas for easy boat access, many points for shore fishing, andMilnot Beach for swimmers and sun bathers.With all of these fantastic sites, plus six hotels and an endless supply of

dining options, Litchfield is a must-see destination along the journey throughCentral Illinois.

2016 Litchfield Calendar of EventsAdditional events may be added throughout the year. For the most up-to-date information, visit www.VisitLitchfield.com or call 217-324-8147.

April-October: Litchfield Pickers Market. Second Sunday of eachmonth, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Downtown Litchfield at State and Union. Open-airmarket, specializing in items prior to 1980 and refurbished vintage and an-tique items, attracts hundreds of vendors. For more information, visitwww.VisitLitchfield.com/events.May 7: Transportation Show. Lake Lou Yaeger: Picnic Area 3. A show-

and-tell event focusing on all types of transportation.June 11, 12: Blue Carpet Corridor-Route 66 Celebration. Multi-town

scavenger hunt with stops at many famous Route 66 locations.June 25: Fit for Life Series: Healthy Heart 5K. St. Francis Hospital.

Race held by M&M Multisport Club. www.mmmultisport.com/races.July 2: 5K Freedom Fun Run/Walk. Lake Lou Yaeger: Picnic Area 3.For race details and to register, visit www.VisitLitchfield.com/events.July 4: Independence Day Fireworks Display at 9:30 p.m., Lake Lou

Yaeger. Fireworks launch will be from Marina 1.July 16: Big Dawg Dare. Wolff Farms (15th Avenue). An extreme 5k

run through mud and over obstacles. Register at www.bigdawgdare.com.July 22, 23: Party in the Park.Downtown Litchfield. Carnival complete

with rides, food, vendors, pageants and entertainment.August 6: Fit for Life Series: Quadruple ByPass Hill Challenge 4K.

Lake Lou Yaeger: Beach House. Race held by M&M Multisport Club. Reg-ister at www.mmmultisport.com/events.August 27: Fit for Life Series: Life Changing 10K. Litchfield High

School. Held by M&M Multisport Club. www.mmmultisport.com/events.September 9-11: RC Jet Rally. Litchfield Municipal Airport. Remote

control Jet Rally showcasing performances by scale model jets.September 11: 7th Annual Triathlou. Lake Lou Yaeger: Beach House.

Sprint/Olympic distance triathlon. www.racemaker.org/litchfield-triathlou.October 1, 2: 5th Annual West Fork Encampment. Lake Lou Yaeger:

Picnic Area 4. Historic reenactment of life in the 1800s.October 29:Harvest Hootenanny. Lake Lou Yaeger: Picnic Area 3. Race

held by M&M Multisport Club. www.mmmultisport.com/events.November 13: Route 66 Half Marathon, 5K, Mile Dash. Historic Route

66-Litchfield Skyview Drive-In. www.racemaker.org/route66.

- -

LITCHFIELD: MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Litchfield: Historic Route 66 — The Mother Road — Beckons

The Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center



Galesburg, a wonderful destination in the heart of the Midwest, isaffordable, contemporary and nostalgic all at once. Walk in thefootsteps of Abraham Lincoln and visit “Old Main” at Knox Col-

lege, the sight of the fifth Lincoln-Douglas debate. The newlyrenovated Alumni Hall includes awonderful museum of artifacts inthe Heritage Center.Then, visit the birthplace and

museum of Pulitzer Prize win-ning Lincoln biographer CarlSandburg. Walk in the StandishPark Arboretum and enjoy thetree-lined streets filled with Vic-torian-style homes and friendlyMidwesterners.Seminary Street Historic Dis-

trict in downtown Galesburg isfilled with unique shops, fine din-ing, and is a short distance fromthe Amtrak Depot, Railroad Museum and newly redesigned DiscoveryDepot Children’s Museum. Visitors will find the Vaudeville-era OrpheumTheatre, the Galesburg Antique Mall, the Galesburg Civic Art Center andmany wonderful pubs and restaurants.Galesburg is a wonderful destination for foodies. Unique local restau-

rants range from fine dining to home cooked meals. Q’s Café on MainStreet was recognized as a “Delicious Destination” by the Illinois Officeof Tourism in 2014.Galesburg is a rail fan’s paradise with one of the largest hump yards in

the world. Peck Park has over 150 trains a day on two intersecting tracksthat present unique photo opportunities.Outdoor adventures are also plentiful at Lake Storey Recreational Area

that features fishing, camping, beach swimming, paddle boats, walkingtrails and an outdoor water park. Snake Den Hollow State Wildlife Areahas 2,500 acres to hunt, fish or hike. There are also three public and sev-eral private golf courses in the area.Galesburg is easy to find on Interstate 74.

Travelers from the East Coast, West Coast andChicago can visit by Amtrak.To learn more, visit the Galesburg Area

Convention & Visitors Bureau on Facebook,Twitter, at www.visitgalesburg.com, or call800-916-3330.

2016 Galesburg Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change.

Please call ahead for specific informationand additional activities.

April 14-16: Rootabaga Jazz Festival. FatFish Pub, 158 N. Broad St., Orpheum Theatreand Galesburg Public Library.April 25-30: Carl Sandburg Days. 21st an-

nual festival. Includes three days of literary,history, sporting and children’s events.June 4: Semi Truck Cruise In. The Sandburg

Mall in Galesburg will host the 2nd AnnualWestern Illinois Semi Truck Cruise-in.June 5: Run Galesburg Run. Half mar -

athon, 5k, and 1 mile options. Starts and ends

in downtown Galesburg. www.rungalesburgrun.com.June 17-19: More on 34. 100-plus miles of yard sales through seven

counties from Sandwich, IL, to Galesburg.June 16-18: Galesburg June-

teenth Festival. The occasion isremembered with a variety ofevents throughout the community.June 25, 26: Galesburg Rail-

road Days. Annual event celebrat-ing the city’s railroad heritage.More than 40 events — most ofthem free. July 6-10: Knox County Fair.

Knox County Fairgrounds.July 28: Taste of Galesburg.

Sample food from numerous arearestaurants, live entertainment andbeer garden.July 29-31: Great Balloon

Race. Color-filled weekend of 25-plus hot air balloons flying overhead.August 19, 20: River 2 River Cruise Night. Hundreds of vintage cars,

street rods, trucks, antiques, special interest vehicles, with a cruise on MainStreet Friday night.August 19-21:Galesburg Heritage Days. Experience the history of two

time periods in America, featuring Civil War Battle Re-enactments andPre-1840s Rendezvous. September 5-10: National Stearman Fly-In. Annual event that hosts

the largest gathering of Stearman bi-planes in the world.September 10: Art in the Park.Downtown Galesburg Standish Park Ar-

boretum. View the creations of regional artists working in a variety of media.October 1, 2, 8, 9: Knox County Scenic Drive. Enjoy historic sites, dis-

plays, demonstrations and country cooking.November 25-27: Christmas Begins at Walnut Grove Farm. December 1: Festival of Trees — Discovery Depot. An annual adult-

only evening full of festive holiday spirit.

Galesburg: Lincoln History, Fine Dining, Outdoor Activities

GALESBURG: KNOX COUNTY


Galesburg is a rail fan’s paradise.


Looking for a trip that takesyou to the roots of whole-some country life, with

large and small farms dotting thelandscape? This trip could includeunique shopping experiences, his-toric homes or dirt-track racing.Do you want a taste of a life that isuniquely separated from the hec-tic, chaotic world most know?Take a trip to Fairbury. Visit

this small town in the heart of Illi-nois, surrounded by family farmsand situated conveniently be-tween Bloomington, Peoria,Champaign and Kankakee,flanked by two major inter-states (Interstates 55 and57), with a renowned andhistoric National Highway(Route 24) running rightthrough the middle of it.Although lively in its

own right, Fairbury boasts atranquility that can only beimagined in many places in the world, and is only a 15-minute drive fromPontiac, the center of historic Route 66 museums and memorabilia.With local farmers weekly supplying farm-raised products to award-

winning Chicagoland restaurants, this is a place where people live closeto the land. Beautiful sunsets and sunrises are an everyday occurrence.Birds and wildlife skirt around its edges, and history comes to life.Add to all this, recreational resources that include parks; fairgrounds

with a dynamic, nationally-known stock car race track; swimmingpool; golf course; bowling facility; museum; a well-appointed library;and a sprawling wooded nature preserve. All together, these create amultitude of amenities — Fairbury formula for success in “small town”living.

Visit The FarmVisiting the farm is a highlight as it will take you back in time a bit to an

era where folks lived quietlyand independently. Morethan 45 small farms, nestledthroughout the countryside,weekly provide over 100Chicagoland restaurants withfarm-raised products.Every week, multiple

shipments are transported tothese “farm to table” restau-rants and the locally raisedfood is enjoyed by the folksin the city.

Some of these chefs periodicallycome down to Fairbury, where fromJune to October, one of the farms of-fers a four-course, chef-prepareddinner. This dinner is paired with atour that introduces you to the peo-ple behind the product and the prod-uct itself from start to finish.A couple of working farms offer

tours and products that are all pro-duced locally with pride. Tour thebarns and walk the barnyards, andyou can see Jersey cows, chickens,goats, Berkshire hogs, lambs,turkeys, rabbits, and all of the ani-mals that are synonymous with ruralfarm life.Visit the country store where local

products are sold, and you can seehow shopping was done in the day when life was simple and everyoneknew their neighbors.This special group of farming interests also hosts the only single source

milk bottling plant in Central Illinois. Watch milk being bottled and get-ting ready for shipment throughout the state.

Fairbury: Farm To Table Tours, Chef-PreparedDinners, Stock Car Racing, Historic Buildings

And Specialty Shops

Visit historic downtown Fairbury with its many shops and restaurants.

Tours of the Farm andChef-prepared dinners

using locally-raisedproducts.

Above: Sunset on the pasture. One of our farmshosts the only single source milk bottling plant in

Central Illinois. Come view the bottling on Monday, Wednesday and Friday around 8 am.

Left: Baby goats are so interesting to watch!


FAIRBURY : LIVINGSTONCOUNTY


c

V

Fairbury Speedway: America’s Dirt TrackFor summertime fun there is the American Legion Speedway. This fea-

tures a quarter-mile dirt track that attracts many of the area’s top racingnames with thousands of fans. There is a full summer schedule that is dot-ted with special big money racing events that brings them in from all overthe map.

The track and stands are in the Fairbury Fair Grounds. It is a spaciousand well-appointed facility that is comfortable and easily accessible, andit has all the necessary accompaniments in food and drink that you need.For more information, visit www.fairburyspeedway.com.

Wildlife And NatureOn the northeast edge of

town along Indian Creek isthe Fugate and James WoodsNature Preserve. This 150acres of wooded natural ter-rain has been protected andcared for to preserve the na-tive woodlands and prairie in-digenous to the area.

Take a walk through someof nature’s finest displays,while absorbing the fresh airand sights that only a countrysetting like this can provide.On a given day, up to 98species of birds have beenspotted in these woods. Othernative wildlife abounds.

Wildflowers and nativegrasses are prevalent, and the public is invited toenjoy, discover, listen and explore. There areplenty of trails to take you on an adventure to seehow the land and the wildlife that goes with it, usedto look. Spending time there allows people to im-merse themselves in the beauty of nature and thejoys of the beautiful and simplethings of life. For more information,visit www.fugatewoods.org.

Indian Creek Country ClubThen you have Indian Creek

Country Club. This golf course of-fers nine challenging holes of golfalong meandering Indian Creek, adriving range, practice greens, elec-tric and pull cart rental, and a club-house with a restaurant, bar, andbanquet facilities. What a great wayto spend time moving through someof the nicest manicured landscapeyou’ll find anywhere.

For more information, please visitwww.indiancreekcc.net.

Above: Fairbury’s America’sDirt Track’s Saturday

night races from May to September attract top

racing names with hugecrowds of fans.

Left: Aerial view of the citywith the racetrack at the

center of the photo.

Nine hole golf coursewith clubhouse,

restaurant and bar.

Woods during different seasons,

complete with trails,benches and picnic

area - flush with bluebells in the

springtime!



Fairbury’s History And Historic BuildingsFairbury’s history started in 1857 with the TP&W railroad running a

new line from Peoria, IL, to Indiana. The railroad line allowed farmers toship their goods to market and agriculture thrived. By 1875, there were 12passenger trains and numerous freight trains passing through Fairburyevery day and, by 1880, there were three coal mines, creating jobs in Fair-bury. The railroad and coal mining industries were a perfect industrialmatch. The trains needed the coal to run, and the coal mine owners neededthe trains to move the coal to buyers.John Marsh created the first of three coal mines. Bat Masterson worked

a few years at one of the Fairbury coal mines. He then moved west andgained fame as a lawman inDodge City, KS. One ofMarsh’s legacies is a beau-tiful wooded park on thewest side of Fairbury. Anewer park and swimmingpool are located on thenorth side of the town.Thomas Beach was a

banker and business entre-preneur. In 1872, he built abeautiful home in Fairbury.It is a fine example of Ital-ianate architecture. Thehome was added to the U.S.National Register of His-toric Places in 1983. It isestimated that ThomasBeach was worth $50 mil-lion in today’s dollars. Theagricultural nature of thearea led to the creation ofthe Fairbury Union Agri-cultural Board in 1876, andthe Fairbury Fair, now cele-brating its 140th anniver-sary. For more information,visit www.fairburyfair.com.The city hall was built in

1892, and was later addedto the U.S. National Regis-ter of Historic Places. Otherarchitectural sites includethe historic 1893 ClaudonBank building, which nowhosts an attractive restau-rant/tea room, a huge attrac-tion in Fairbury. Donationof a library by the Dominyfamily, in 1904, added tothe cultural needs of thecommunity. Still serving thecommunity today, theDominy Library’s architec-ture is unique with its domeroof. Many other statelyhomes can be seen by driv-ing or taking a walking tourof Fairbury. For more infor-mation, visit www.dominy-memoriallibrary.org.Much of Fairbury’s his-

tory is captured in the Fair-bury Echoes Museum at

126 W. Locust St. Visit the museum for a close look at how things were,and how Fairbury and the surrounding area came to be what it is today.For more information, visit www.historicfairbury.com.

Unique Specialty ShopsWith more than a dozen shops, “The Specialty Shops of Fairbury” pro-

vide special events almost monthly. These events are full of discounts,sales, sampling, and interesting spins on shopping fun that have their pa-trons looking forward to each one. Many of these events are aligned withother special events in the area, so that residents and visitors alike optimizetheir time visiting Fairbury.These shops represent a vast arena of interests, including antiques;

unique gifts; crafts and hobbies; groceries; country fare and products; gen-tly used personal and household items; and greeting cards and related mes-sage products. Plus, visitors will find plants and flowers, special foodgroups, deli's, baked goods, engraving, embroidery, and home decor andboutique items.You would think with all of that having a presence within the scope of

the town that you would be looking at a small city. However, it’s really justa charming small town — with only one stoplight and easy access toeverything. Come for a visit. You can judge for yourself why so manypeople continue to make the trip to do their shopping, looking, and eatingor satisfying their recreational desires.All-in-all, Fairbury is a role model for Small Town USA, and is very

proud of the success that has been achieved. Enjoy a trip to the country.Experience the tranquility and uniqueness of a life that is closer to natureand the simple things, the important things. You’ll see why it is not onlya great place to visit, it’s also a great place to live.

2016 Fairbury Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change.

Please visit www.FairburyILAttractions.com for specific informationand additional activities. Download a map at top left-hand corner.March 14: Specialty Shops’ “Spring Open Houses.” 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

April 15, 16: “Meet Us in Fairbury!” Specialty Shops EventApril 23: Fairbury Speedway Opening Day.

April 29, 30: All-Town Garage Sales. “$2 Tag” Specialty Shops Event.1st Saturday May-October: Local Craft & Vendor Market.

Downtown Fairbury from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.May 6, 7: “Mother’s Day” Specialty Shops Event.

May 7: Chamber-Sponsored Community Sale. May 7: Fairbury Speedway Fan Frenzy.June 4: 9th Annual Cruise-In at Marchelloni’s.

June 24, 25: UMP Summer Nationals at Fairbury Speedway.June 24, 25: “Sizzling Summer Sales” Specialty Shops Event.July 29, 30: Prairie Dirt Classic at Fairbury Speedway.July 29, 30: All-Town Garage Sales.July 29, 30: “Race to Fairbury” Specialty Shops Event.

August 17-20: Fairbury Fair.August 17-20: “Ride the Shops” Specialty Shops Event.

Sept. 16, 17: “Fall Open House” Specialty Shops Event.Sept. 23, 24: All-Town Garage Sales. Sept. 23, 24: “$2 Tag”Specialty Shops Event.

Oct. 7, 8: “Meet Us in Fairbury!” Specialty Shops EventNov. 7: Specialty Shops “Holiday Open House.” 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Nov. 24, 25: Black Friday/Small Business Saturday.Dec. 3: Fairbury Christmas Parade Day. Dec. 3: Specialty Shop’s “Shopping Celebration” Event.Dec. 3: Indoor Holiday Market.Dec. 3: Relay for Life Event.

Thomas Beach Home

Claudon Bank Building

Chamber-sponsored Christmas Parade

Fairbury Fair



It is not the Great Pyramids of Egypt,nor is it the Brooklyn Bridge. How-ever, Pontiac is fast becoming a

world traveler destination. Many peoplecome to Pontiac to discover first-hand theauthentic Route 66 experience. Somecome to spend a few hours walkingthrough Pontiac’s four great museumsand exploring historic homes. And otherstravel to Pontiac to see the remarkablecollection of outdoor murals that gracethe downtown shopping district. In everycase, those who visit the city of Pontiac,take away their own unique set of greatand lasting memories. Pontiac is located just 100 miles

south of Chicago and 100 miles northof Springfield, IL, in Central Illinois.By car the city is accessible via Inter-state 55 or Historic Route 66. By rail,Amtrak makes several daily stops in Pontiac, with the train depot locatedjust a few blocks from the city center. The city offers interesting places to see and a wide variety of things to

do. There are four spectacular museums in Pontiac: The Route 66 Asso-ciation of Illinois Hall of Fame and Museum, the Pontiac-Oakland Au-tomobile Museum and Resource Center, the Livingston County WarMuseum, and the Society of Gilders’ museum featuring the history ofgold and silver leaf manufacture and use. Add to those attractions over20 painted outdoor murals, the Pontiac Art Cars, the Walldog Mural andSign Art exhibit, the Life in the 1940s exhibit, and so much more.Pontiac has nine Looking for Lincoln story boards, five Route 66 her-

itage sites, and a downtown shopping district with some breathtakinghistoric architecture featuring one of the state’s most beautiful countycourthouses.Recently added to Pontiac’s list of attractions is the Eagle Performing

Arts and Conference Center. A 1930s-era movie house has been lovinglyrefurbished to become the central focus of the performing arts in thearea. Dinner theater, musicals, dramas, dance, and music groups willgrace the stage of the Eagle, and the space is flexible enough to accom-modate conferences, meetings, special events, and more.For outdoor adventurists, Pontiac has wonderful city parks and the

Humiston Woods Nature Center. Humiston Woods is 335 acres of hard-wood forest and eight acres of restored prairie along the Vermilion River.The Nature Center offers seven trails, two pavilions, four picnic areas, afishing pond, a canoe dock, and includes three handicapped-accessibleareas.For the sports enthusiast, there is a new disc golf course, two tradi-

tional golf courses, baseball fields, boating and fishing on the VermillionRiver, and other sporting venues. Visitors will also enjoy strolling acrossthe river on one of the city’s three pedestrian suspension bridges.

Downtown shopping is always funin Pontiac. Whether looking for an-tiques and collectibles, or the perfectsouvenir of Route 66, the storesaround the courthouse square havesome exciting choices. New to thePontiac shopping experience is thePontiac Charm Trail. Visitors can cre-ate a keepsake charm bracelet as theytravel from store to store. With over 25different charms available, each pricedat $3 or less, the Charm Trail hasproven to be a “charming way to ex-plore the shops of Pontiac.”Annual events in Pontiac include the

Red Carpet Corridor Festival, theGTOAA Regional Meet and Car Show,the Threshermen’s Reunion and theThreshermen’s Blue Grass Festival.There are also a number of retail sales

events planned throughout the year.Pontiac is happy to welcome both individual adventurers as well as travel

groups. For more information on Pontiac, visit www.visitpontiac.org.In Pontiac, visitors can pick up maps, brochures and other local infor-mation at any of the city’s four museums. Every traveler should be sureto get a Pontiac VIP button to take advantage of special discounts withlocal merchants.

Pontiac: A Route 66 Experience And Many Other Attractions

PONTIAC: LIVINGSTONCOUNTY

815-844-5847 · www.visitpontiac.org

For information on attractions, tours or retail space available in downtown Pontiac, contact:


Pictured is Pontiac’s first 3-D sidewalk mural, painted in2012 by Chinese artist Tang Dongbai. The sidewalk sharkmural is just one of the 23 large, colorful, outdoor murals

found in the downtown Pontiac shopping district.

2016 Pontiac Calendar of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

May 7, 8: 10th Annual Red Carpet Corridor Festival.September 1-5: Annual Threshermen’s Reunion.

September 17, 18: GTOAA All Pontiac Regional Cruise and Car Show.

September 22-24: 24th Annual Threshermen’s Bluegrass Music Festival.


Abraham Lincoln’shometown, a stopalong Route 66

and the capital of Illinois,Springfield is a charmingand historic city filled withworld-class sites and at-tractions combined with afriendly small-town at-mosphere.Some of the many historic

sites and museums touristswill want to visit include theLincoln Home National His-toric Site, the Abraham Lin-coln Presidential Libraryand Museum, the Old StateCapitol, the Lincoln Tomband Frank Lloyd Wright’sDana-Thomas House. The National Park Service

turns 100 years old in 2016,and throughout the year youcan enjoy special anniver-sary activities at Spring-field’s own Lincoln HomeNational Historic Site.Historical Old Route 66

runs through the center oftown. Travelers along the“Mother Road” often stop at the Cozy Dog Drive In or attend the International Route 66 MotherRoad Festival, held the last weekend of September.The beautiful Illinois State Capitol building is the center of Illinois government, and the perfect

place to see lawmaking in action. For more information about Springfield, visit www.visitspring-fieldillinois.com or call800-545-7300.

2016 Springfield Calendar of Events

Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific informa-tion, and additional activities. For a complete listing of things tosee and do in Springfield, visit www.visitspringfieldillinois.com.

May 21, 22: Springfield Old Capitol Art Fair. Old Capitol Squarein downtown Springfield, 5th and Adams streets from 10 a.m. to 4p.m. For more information, call 217-415-5518, or visitwww.socaf.org.August 11-21: Illinois State Fair. Illinois State Fairgrounds. For

more information, call 217-782-6661 or visit www.IllinoisState-Fair.info.August 25: 100th anniversary of the National Park Service at the

Lincoln Home National Historic Site. For more information, call 217-391-3221 or visit www.nps.gov/liho. September 23-25: 13th Annual International Route 66 Mother

Road Festival. Downtown Springfield. For more information, call866-783-6645 or visit www.route66fest.com.October 7-8: Old Capitol Blues and BBQ. Downtown Springfield.

For more information, call 217-544-1723 or visit www.downtown-springfield.org.

Lincoln And Other Historic Sites Abound In Capital CitySPRINGFIELD: SANGAMONCOUNTY

Springfield is the home of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

Union Station Park

• 40" HDTV• Free Wireless High-Speed Internet Access• Free Bright Side Breakfast®• Free Local Calls• Free Parking• Business Center• Indoor Swimming Pool• Fitness Center• Bright Side Market

217-697-5686

www.LQ.com

wake up on the bright side®

1121 Lajune Dr.Springfield, Illinois



Knight’s Action Park: Where Fun Is A Family Tradition


ACTION PARKACTION PARKC RA T N RT OOO A

WHERE FUN RULES!

1700 K N IG HTS R ECR EATION DR IVE

S P R I NG F I E LD, I LLI NOI S 62711

KNIGHTSACTIONPARK.COM ROUTE66-DRIVEIN.COM

COME FOR THE HISTORY.

STAY FOR THE FUN. BUY ONE ROUND OF MINI-GOLF & GET ONE FREE

NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.EXPIRES 12/1/16.

Fun is a family tradition at Knight’s Action Park,a fully equipped amusement park that’s open allyear long. Knight’s is the place where fun rules.

With a dry park, water park, and endless outdoor en-tertainment — including a twin drive-in theater —Knight’s Action Park is Illinois’ leading destination forlocal family fun.At Knight’s Action Park, kids of all ages play and

practice all year. Knight’s offers a 50-tee driving range(including 10 heated tees), batting cages, arcadegames, and two miniature golf courses. The fun does-n’t stop there. Rev your engines and race on our Go

Kart track or de-light your familywith fun at exciting heightsaboard the Paratrooper and theBig Wheel. During the sum mer months,

join us at Knight’s ActionPark’s Splash Kingdom. Checkout our Bermuda Triangle slidetower with three exciting andthrilling slides. Test yournerves on the hair-raisingDevil Ray as you speed down anearly vertical incline and back

up again. Don’t missthe high-speed fun ofthe Royal Flush. Need afew moments to relax?Escape the summer heatin our 400,000-gallonwave pool or floataround in our lazy river.You can also navigatethe lake aboard a four-seat Paddle Boat orsplash and crash on ourBumper Boats. Havesmaller children? Let

them enjoy Seal Bay and other kiddie play areas made just forthem. At Knight’s Action Park, there is something for everyone.Like movies? Watch current films throwback style at our

Route 66 Twin Drive-In Theater. From Memorial Day weekendthrough Labor Day weekend, the Route 66 Twin Drive-In showsdouble features on two giant screens.Knight’s Action is located at exit 96 offInterstate 72 in Springfield. A traditionfor fun, excitement, sports, games andentertainment, Knight’s Action Parkwelcomes guests of all ages to WHEREFUN RULES!

Knight’s Action Park synonomous with family fun.

Engines rev along the Go Kart track.


Urbana is located in east central Illinois, with easy access bycar (from Interstates 74, 72 and 57), and by air, train or bus.The city is the home of the University of Illinois, and fea-

tures a wide array of shopping opportunities. The city’s downtownis known for its diversity, and visitors will enjoy the many shops andrestaurants. The walkable downtown features more than a dozen

high-quality, locally-ownedrestaurants and taverns, in-cluding restaurants offeringThai, Indian and Koreanfood, as well as barbecueand gourmet pizza.Sports fans flock to the

sprawling U of I campus(parts of which are also lo-cated in Champaign, Ur-bana’s twin city) to view BigTen Conference sports,while cheering on the Fight-ing Illini. The campus fea-tures such attractions as the

Spurlock Museum, Krannert Center for the Performing Arts andKrannert Art Museum.Other popular attractions include the Market at the Square in

downtown Urbana every Saturday from mid-May through mid-No-vember. The market features more than 130 vendors. Over 127,000visitors shop at the market each season. Market at the Square offers

fresh produce, meat, dairy, wine and cheese, in addition to arts, craftsand food trucks.In the city, can be found more than 600 acres of parks and natural

areas. Two of Urbana’s most popular parks are Crystal Lake Parkand Meadowbrook Park. Crystal Lake Park, just north of downtown Urbana, includes an 8-

acre lake. Meadowbrook Park is located along Windsor Road, andincludes more than 80 acres of native Illinois tallgrass prairie, aperimeter walking path and Wandell Sculpture Garden.For those seeking the arts, culture and entertainment, Urbana is home

to several downtown art galleries, theaters and a uniquevariety of music and entertainment venues.Premier events in downtown Urbana include the Un-

cork Wine Festival, which celebrates the diverse and de-licious wines Illinois has to offer. Visitors can enjoy anafternoon and evening of wine, music and food. Also, theannual Urbana Sweetcorn Festival features two nights oflive music, featuring performances by local favorites, re-gional acts and nationally-renowned headliners.

2016 Urbana Schedule of EventsDates are subject to change. Please call ahead forspecific information and additional activities.

March 12, 16, April 9, 23: Middle Market. From 8a.m. to 1 p.m. Downtown inside Lincoln Square. Freshproduce, bakery goods, sweets, meats, eggs, artisancheeses, jams and jellies, arts and crafts, gifts andmore.Mid-May-Mid-November: Market at the Square.

Downtown. Every Saturday. Features fresh produce,meat, dairy, wine and cheese, in addition to arts, craftsand food trucks.June 18: Uncork Wine Festival. Downtown. Cele-

brating the diverse and delicious wines Illinois has tooffer. Enjoy an afternoon/evening of wine, music, andfood.August 26: Sweetcorn Festival. Live music and

plenty of sweetcorn. Features performances by localfavorites, several regional acts, and nationally-renowned headliners.

To Advertise In The 2017 Edition Of

Discover Central Illinois MagazinePhone: 217-268-4959 or

Email: [email protected]


Urbana: Shops, Restaurants Highlight Diverse Downtown Scene

URBANA: CHAMPAIGN COUNTY

120 W. MainUrbana, IL 61801217-367-371110a-5p Wed-Sat www.cinemagallery.cc

Victor Wang

Cinema Gallery is located in the landmark 1870

Busey’s Hall/Princess Theater in downtown Urbana.



Street. Small town America hospitality often includes caroling by localchurch choirs. The holiday season kicks off in November when store own-ers host annual holiday Open Houses. Specific dates and events will be an-nounced. Traditionally, the open houses feature holiday treats, extendedhours, caroling, special merchandise and more.The month of December is a busy one throughout the community as local

churches host such events as a House Walk complete with a visit to TheCandy Cane Cafe, special music with an Annual Christmas Cantata, schoolconcerts, and much more. Santa comes to town with great fanfare and treatsfor all. For more information, contact the Arcola Chamber of Commerce.

HISTORIC BUSINESS DISTRICTArcola’s Main Street business district also features well-maintained, re-

cently renovated historic buildings, including the Otto Building on MainStreet. Recently, owner of the building and local businessman, WilmerOtto, received national attention. He headed a group that arranged to havean authentic Mesker Bros. Iron Works storefront (located in the neighbor-ing town of Stewardson) restored and moved to Arcola to replace the fa-cade of the landmark Arcola building. The Mesker storefront in Stewardsonhad graced the quickly deteriorating former Opera Hall there. The OttoBuilding’s original Mesker storefront was destroyed by fire in 1950. A spe-cial community ceremony dedicated the restoration project made possiblethrough the collaboration of the two towns. There are also several otherhistoric Mesker storefronts in Arcola.THE ARCOLA ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD TRAIN DEPOTThe Depot should be the first stop for visitors who come to the area. The

historic brick building (circa 1885) is a welcome center, tourist informationcenter, museum and home of the Arcola Chamber of Commerce offices. Itcontains visitor information about points of interests in Arcola, the nearbyAmish settlement and the surrounding areas. After use of the building as a depot ended in 1973, the building was

closed and fell into disrepair. When rumors reached community membersthat the railroad was considering tearing the building down, the then ArcolaChamber of Commerce president, Mrs. Mary Monahan, and other citizensasked her son, Pat, to contact the Illinois Central Railroad and try to arrangepurchase of the building and lease of the surrounding land. The “Save The

Arcola: Continued From Page 21

Tourists enjoy the vivid colors of Arcola’s magnificent fall foliage.

2016 ARCOLA CALENDAR OF EVENTSDates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information, and additional activities.

All Year: Rockome Foods: Monday thru Saturday, closed on Sun-day. All in one building: cheese factory, bakery, candy kitchen, deli,bulk foods, ice cream, sandwiches, live bee hive and grist mill. 125 N.CR 425 E, Arcola, IL 217-268-4107.TBA: Arcola Annual Community Dance: Arcola C of C sponsored.March 4 & 5: Country Spirit Antique Show & Sale: Two locations:

Arcola Center, 107 W. Main St. and at Best Western PLUS, 917 GreenMill Road (off I-57 on Rt. 133 east of the interstate.) Visit [email protected] or call 312-957-1065.March 15: Aikman Wildlife Adventures: Opening day. Open week-

ends only in March. www.aikmanwildlife.com or 217-259-9603.March 18: St. John’s Fish Fry: St. John the Baptist Catholic

Church annual fish fry at Arcola Community Center.March TBA: Arcola’s Downtown Spring Open Houses: Shop for

unique gift-giving, home decor and handcrafted Amish furniture.www.arcolachamber.com.March TBA: Arcola Fire Department Annual Hog Roast: Arcola

Community Center, 107 W. Main at 6 p.m. Call 217-268-4966.April 1: Tri-County Spring Toy Auction: 1000 lots including trucks,

farm toys, cast iron, horse-drawn toys, pressed steel. Tri-County Auc-tion Facility, 10 a.m., 650 E. CR 400 N., rural Arcola. 217-268-3444.April 2: Tri-County Spring Consignment Auction: Tri-County Auc-

tion facility, 650 E. CR 400 N., rural Arcola. 217-268-3444.April 16: Strides Against Hunger: Fundraiser for the Arcola Food

Pantry. Race/walk. Register online at runsignup.com/race/il/arcola/stridesagainsthunger. For more information call 217-508-9262 orEmail [email protected] 24: Scholastic dinner: Sponsored by the Arcola Chamber.

Event honors Arcola High School juniors & seniors who have ex-celled academically during the school year. 217-268-4530.May 21: Pop The Top Car Show: Downtown Arcola, adjacent to

Moomaw American Hippie Memorial. Visit www.arcolachamber.com.June 10 & 11: Raggedy Ann Gathering: Exchange merchandise,

renew Raggedy friendships and visit Arcola, once the home ofJohnny Gruelle. For list of events, call 217-268-4530 or visitwww.arcolachamber.com, also check the Raggedy Ann Gathering inArcola on Facebook.July (date TBA): 4th of July Celebration, 217-268-4400.August 5 & 6: Arcola City Wide Garage Sales. September 9, 10 & 11: 46th Annual Broom Corn Festival. Down-

town Main Street. Broom related activities, arts/crafts, free enter-tainment, great food, and gigantic parade, 5K and 10K race. Theevent, always held the weekend after Labor Day, honors Arcola’s po-sition in the nineteenth century as a center of broom corn production.Call 217-268-4530 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.September 19: Sun Shine Rotary Golf Outing, Kaskaskia Coun-

try Club.November 11-12: Country Spirit Antique Show and Sale: Quality

dealers offering country antiques, primitives & Americana. Two lo-cations: Arcola Center, 107 W. Main St. and Best Western PLUS, 917Green Mill Road (off I-57 on Rt. 133 east of the interstate), Arcola,IL, Friday 1-4 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. For more information:visit [email protected] or call 312-957-1065.November TBA: Historic Arcola’s Downtown Holiday Open

House: Shop historic brick-paved downtown Arcola streets full ofideas for unique gift-giving, home décor and handcrafted Amish fur-niture. Preview Christmas décor and take advantage of special pric-ing. Call 217-268-4530 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.December 3: Santa Parade: Welcome Santa to Arcola. Parade

scheduled for Main Street Arcola.Continued On Page 78

Arcola: Festivals, Murals, Unique Shopping, Delicious Food


Depot” project is one of many success stories of Arcola citizens pulling to-gether to accomplish a community goal. Two years after the project began, anOpen House was held August 17, 1986, to celebrate completion of the project.This historic restored railroad depot now houses a museum containing

a display of railroad memorabilia and an exhibit of old and new RaggedyAnn & Andy dolls. It holds books on the history of Arcola, broom corn,and the depot itself. Visitors will also find the largest brush and broom col-lection, donated by Louis Klein, who traveled the world collecting all kindsof brushes and brooms. There is also Arcola memorabilia from the schools,the old pharmacy—including the Coffee Club Cups (the club was madefamous on Charles Kuralt’s Sunday Morning) and lots of photos, potbellystoves and much more. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is happy togreet visitors and help with information for an Amazing Arcola experience.Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundayand some holidays.

IPADS IN THE HANDS OF ALL ARCOLA STUDENTSArcola’s progressive and diverse school district has completed a major

building expansion that has brought many academic advantages for Arcola’sstudents. With an eye toward the importance of technology in today’s edu-cation, The Arcola 1:1 Individual Learning Program has raised more than$642,877. The program was spearheaded by Arcola native Tim Monahan,local businessman and community leader, to support an initiative wherebyeach student, K-12, in the Arcola school district has his/her own iPad.The Arcola community is also preparing for the future by making up-

grades to some of its most historic buildings. The Arcola Public Library,

built over a century ago with funds provided by Andrew Carnegie, has un-dergone a remarkable renovation and expansion project.

The school athletic motto, “Winning Is Our Tradition,” is representa-tive of the importance athletics have played, not only in the history of thecommunity, but in the lives of current students and fans. In 2015, the Ar-cola football team won the class 1A state championship. Sarah Bush Lincoln’s Arcola Health Care facility, a chiropractic center

as well as a new facility for one of the community’s banks, have changedthe landscape of the west side of town. The Arcola location of The OkawFarmer’s Cooperative has added to the town’s southwest cityscape with ahuge grain bin. Total capacity at the facility now totals 2,914,000 bushelsof grain, reflecting the vital role agriculture plays in the area. DouglasCounty (the flattest county in Illinois) is well known for its rich soil.Work has been completed on Arcola’s new westside fire station, and

construction is in progress in the downtown area for the community’s newMasonic Temple, which will also house an additional community centeravailable for community and private events.A new housing addition, which features condo living as well as single

family dwelling at its best, is located on the southeast side of the town. Visitors are also invited to enjoy Arcola’s beautifully maintained parks,

as well as the Arcola Rotary Club Centennial Park and Gazebo. During the autumn, Arcola’s great old maple trees are magnificent on

Main Street with beautiful fall foliage. Visitors will want to take advan-tage of area bike trails. Altogether, Arcola is a great place to visit and aneven better place to live. Contact the Arcola Chamber of Commerce at(800) 336-5456 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.


765-569-6541T

219-405-5033

K

Walnut Street Winery offers fine wines, using raw materials from some of the best vine-yards in the world. Located in Rochester, IL, off of Route 29, four miles east ofSpringfield, the state capital, the winery now features a full bar and video games.

“We make all our fine wines with ingredients from California, except one that uses producefrom Argentina,” said owner Loren Shanle.The winery offers several Shanle wines including Cab ernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfan-

del, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Chardonnay, Sau vignon Blanc, Pink Grapefruit Blush,Shiraz, Rosie Red, Applelicious, Grandpa Grape, Just Peachy, Blackjack, Tropical Breeze, Cran-

tastic, Razzle Daz zle and Big Daddy RedMalbec. To order wines online, visitwww.walnutstreetwinery.com.Walnut Street Winery is located in an

attractive old house in downtownRochester at 309 S. Walnut St. The build-ing once housed Shanle’s insuranceagency.The winery’s wine garden features a

bocce ball court that is 60 feet long and13 feet wide, which is very popular withcustomers, especially in the warmermonths.In the wine garden, visitors can enjoy

wine in the open air, along with pizza orsome of the Wisconsin cheeses that are

available. The wine garden is also a unique setting for the hosting of wedding receptions, classreunions, office parties, Christmas parties and other group events.“The bocce ball court is a big attraction. During warm weather we have leagues three nights

a week,” Shanle said. “We also have Wisconsin cheeses and crackers. When the wine garden isopen, we grill brats, hot dogs, and burgers.”The winery is also a popular music venue, often featuring major bands and performers.“We feature live music each week,” Shanle said. “During the colder months, the winery is

open fewer hours and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. In the warmer months, the winery isopen seven days a week and for more hours.”

WINERIES

Walnut Street Winery: A Notable Experience

Walnut Street Winery

Offer Expires Dec. 31, 2016

Arcola: Continued From Page 77


caught May 25, 2010 at Raccoon Lake

WEIGHING 39.08 LBSSTRIPED BASS

STATE RECORD

CABINSTurkey Run State Park Cabins 877-563-4371 Wilkins Mill Guesthouse 765-597-2046 Rockville Lake Park Cabins 765-569-6541Turkey Run Cabins 765-597-2029Peaceful Waters Campground & Cabins 765-592-6458 Pat’s Pad 765-569-2605 Bear Cub Cabins 765-344-1436Raccoon Lake House Rentals 765-592-0393Fallen Rock Parke 765-672-4301Sugar Valley Cabins 765-597-2355Covered Bridge Getaway [email protected] Dragonfly 765-592-0393The Cabins at Hobson Farms 765-376-7663CANOE CAMPSugar Valley 765-597-2364LARGE GROUP FACILITYCovered Bridge Retreat 866-622-6746

INNSTurkey Run Inn 877-563-4371 Raccoon Lakeside Lodge 765-344-1162EconoLodge 765-569-3430MOTELSParke Bridge Motel 765-569-3525 Covered Bridge Motel 765-569-2833 Motel Forrest 765-569-5250BED & BREAKFASTSGranny’s Farm B & B 765-597-2248 Owl Nest B & B 765-569-1803Bubble Gum B & B 765-569-6630Cherrywood Farm B & B 765-548-0582 Mansfield Guest Inn 812-877-9831Old Jail Inn Parke County 765-562-2056Red Brick Inn 219-405-5033Knoll Inn 765-344-1162

Sugar Valley Canoes

Antique, Primitive & Vintage Shops

Prices, Special Offers Expire Dec. 31, 2016


EXPERIENCEA TRUE AMERICAN HOMETOWN

OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONSIN CLINTON

Sunset Inn and Suites (217) 935-4140Town and Country Motel (217) 935-2121

Wye Motel (217) 935-3373

EXPERIENCE

CLINTONBLOOMINGTON-NORMAL

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA

DECATURSPRINGFIELD

QUAD-CITIES

CHICAGO

ST. LOUIS

CLINTON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM BUREAU

(866)4-DEWITT | www.clintonilchamber.com | email: [email protected]

100 South Center Street | Suite 101 | Clinton, Illinois 61727


2016 Discover Central Illinois

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Transcript of 2016 Discover Central Illinois