2020 Discover Central Illinois

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Aikman Wildlife Adventure.........24 Amish Of Illinois ...........................8 Arcola.........................................18 Arthur .........................................26 Bement.......................................47 Casey..........................................46 Charleston..................................36 Chesterville................................34 Clinton........................................51 Crawford County ........................54

Communities & Attractions Decatur ......................................59 DeMoulin Museum Greenville ....65 Effingham...................................56 Greenup......................................42 Illinois Amish Heritage Center...17 Jacksonville................................64 Jasper County.............................72 Knight’s Action Park...................69 Lake Shelbyville .........................71

Litchfield ....................................62 Marshall .....................................44 Mattoon ......................................38 Monticello ..................................48 Oakland ......................................40 Paris...........................................41 Parke County, IN ........................75 Passion Play Bloomington .........63 Pontiac.......................................70

Robinson ....................................54 Springfield..................................68 Tuscola .......................................31 Vandalia......................................66 Published Annually By

Rankin Publishing, Inc. 217-268-4959 discovercentralillinois.com rankinmag@consolidated.net

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For every stage of life...

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Located at the Gateway to Central Illinois’ Amish Country in Arcola, Illinois, this mixed-use development brings together destination and regional travelers to a community with a vibrant future.

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217.268.5000

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• Pontiac

LIVINGSTON

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Aikman Wildlife Adventure.................24

Illinois Amish Heritage Center...........17

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

Amish Of Illinois ...................................8

Jacksonville........................................64

Springfield..........................................68

Arcola.................................................18

Jasper County.....................................72

Tuscola ...............................................31

Arthur .................................................26

Knight’s Action Park...........................69

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

Bement...............................................47

Lake Shelbyville .................................71

Casey..................................................46

Litchfield ............................................62

Charleston..........................................36

Marshall .............................................44

Chesterville........................................34

Mattoon ..............................................38

Clinton................................................51

Monticello ..........................................48

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

Oakland ..............................................40

Decatur ..............................................59

Paris...................................................41

DeMoulin Museum Greenville ............65

Parke County, IN ................................75

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

Passion Play Bloomington .................63

Greenup..............................................42

Pontiac...............................................70

PAGE 6 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

www.discovercentralillinois.com Published annually by

Rankin Publishing, Inc. 204 E. Main St. • P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910 Phone 217-268-4959 • Fax 217-268-4815 rankinmag@consolidated.net Publishers of: Broom, Brush & Mop Magazine Maintenance Sales News Magazine Busline Magazine Discover Central Illinois Magazine

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A

AMISH OF ILLINOIS Living Humbly And Simply, Dedicated To Religious Ideals:

Central Illinois Is Home To State’s Largest Amish Community

mish lifestyles are different from the everyday lives most Americans know. The Amish live humbly and simply, dedicating their lives to religious ideals. Nearly 4,500 Amish people populate Moultrie, Douglas and Coles counties in such communities as Arcola, Arthur, Lovington, Sullivan, Tuscola, Cadwell, Chesterville, Atwood and Cooks Mills.

Sunset in Central Illinois Amish Country.

The Amish faith is based on Menno Simon’s break from the Roman Catholic Church during the Anabaptist movement in Europe in the early 1500s. The Amish later split from this group, known as the Mennonites, due to their belief in shunning those who leave the church, established by Jacob Ammann. After suffering persecution for generations, the Amish and Mennonites set sail for the United States in the late 1600s and early 1700s.

In 1865, Central Illinois saw its first Amish settlers in the families of Daniel Yoder, Daniel Otto and Moses Yoder.

Today, Amish communities have been established across the United States, with large populations in Indiana, Pennsylvania and Ohio. In all, Amish communities are found in 27 states.

In following with traditional customs, Amish people do not use electricity or operate automobiles and modern farm machinery. Instead, they travel by horse-drawn buggy, use propane to fuel their light fixtures and heat their ovens, and farm using teams of horses. While most American homes are now filled with the noises of modern-day technological devices, Amish homes remain much quieter. Amish people do not own radios or televisions and only use telephones outside their homes for business and in cases of emergency.

Amish children begin working on family businesses and farms at ages as young as 5 years, performing chores typical of children who live on a farm or who are raised in a family business. As children grow, their responsibilities increase.

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You will see lots of horsepower in Douglas, Moultrie and Coles counties.

CLOTHING The Amish wear solid colored clothing that is hand-tailored by family members. Men wear long, denim pants to work with plain 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 black felt in winter.

Women wear plain colored dresses without trim and are void of jewelry and cosmetics. Their dresses are fastened with straight pins and their heads are covered at all times with white head cov-

erings made of Swiss organdy. These white coverings are even worn under their black bonnets. Additionally, their garments have no buckles or zippers. Older women wear dark colors, such as navy blue, green or burgundy, with blue and black saved for religious occasions such as weddings and funerals. In cold weather, they add black wool shawls to their wardrobes.

Amish ladies cover their heads with white prayer coverings while indoors and add a black bonnet on top of the covering when outdoors. When women are working in the garden, they

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wear handkerchiefs. Girls dress like their mothers, with a few exceptions. Girls do not wear straight pins until they are older, 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 line draped with clothes drying in the sun after a fresh washing is a common sight in any Amish community.

Well-kept flower/vegetable gardens are the norm.

PAGE 10 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

BUSINESS Traditionally, Amish business assets were calculated by how much land a family owned. With the Amish population growing and the land area remaining unchanged, however, many Amish today hold other business assets.

As times have changed, more Amish businesses have opened to supplement the income generated from farming. As a result, many wonderful finds can be discovered at Amish businesses in the area. Signs along rural roads alert passersby of opportunities to purchase various foods, including many fresh produce items, during spring, summer and fall months.

Among the local businesses operated by the Amish are grocery stores, health food stores, shoe stores, woodworking shops, lawn furniture stores, an orchard, tool stores, a meat packing plant, feed mills and a lamp shop.

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• Furniture Shops and Custom Built Cabinets: Round oak tables, roll-top desks, cabinets, home entertainment centers and wooden accent pieces are only a few of the many handcrafted furniture items available at numerous shops. Along with furniture craftsmen, Amish cabinet-makers can provide some of the finest and most attractive custom-made kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and other furniture.

• Country Stores: Small rural stores are stocked with everything from home-baked items to handmade quilts.

• Buggy and Wagon Repair Shops: Building or repairing buggies and wagons is a necessary part of Amish life.

A number of Amish craftsmen have opened shops to perform this 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 upholstering for both furniture and vehicle seats. Visitors can bring their own fabric into the shops or choose from a selection of materials.

• Blacksmiths and Horseshoeing: The friendly smithers perform their craft throughout the year.

• Cloth and Fabrics: Amish women make clothes, beautiful quilts and craft items. These shops feature everything needed for sewing.

• Fresh Foods: The Amish advocate foods direct from nature. Vitamins, nut meats, herbs, flours, dried fruit, juice and grains all can be purchased at local shops.

Locally raised natural beef, pork, mutton and chicken are sold in state-inspected Amish shops. Fresh eggs, apple butter, honey, sorghum, apple cider and fruits and vegetables are sold during certain times of the year on several Amish farms in the area. Visitors can also satisfy their hunger with the homemade cinnamon rolls, donuts, cakes, breads and candy sold at several private Amish farmsteads.

Businesses are closed each Sunday and the Epiphany (old Christmas), and on Ascension Day, which is 40 days after Easter. The Amish celebrate religious holidays, Thanksgiving and the New Year.

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SCHOOL Amish children learn a dialect of the German language, called Pennsylvania Dutch, before studying English. When children in Amish families attend school, they learn to speak English.

In addition, most Amish children, by age 12, are able to operate 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 Central Illinois. Typically, each school includes two teachers, who tend to be unmarried Amish women. One teaches students first through fourth grade, while the other teaches students fifth through eighth grade. Amish schools feature courses in subjects such as math, social studies, spelling, writing and health.

Science is not taught, however, because the Amish do not believe it is a necessary course of study. Likewise, the Amish believe that any knowledge attained past the eighth grade is “worldly” knowledge and is not required for the simple Amish lifestyle; therefore, Amish school teachers are also only educated to the eighth grade.

A large Amish community populates Moultrie, Douglas and Coles counties, Illinois.

School normally ends with the arrival of May. This allows children more time to work on the family farm. The Amish hold a large picnic to celebrate the end of each school year.

Amish children usually spend their evenings in the family home, where reading and board games occupy leisure time.

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PAGE 12 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

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WEDDINGS Many Amish people marry at the age of 19 or 20. In past years, Amish newlyweds made a living from parcels of land given to them as gifts by one of the fathers. Today, that is less common and young married couples often purchase land upon which to build.

Examining facial hair works well when trying to determine the marital status of an Amish man. Married Amish men have beards. Unmarried Amish men are clean-shaven. Amish men are 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 men and women must join the Amish church. This process includes baptism. Amish weddings, which are usually day-long celebrations that draw 200 to 500 guests, begin with 2-hour religious services followed by a wedding ceremony. The bride often wears a royal blue dress and a white prayer cap. Weddings normally take place in the home of a relative of the bride.

Following an Amish wedding, a large celebratory meal is served. The crowd eats in shifts. During the celebration, the wedding couple usually sits in a corner of a room. The crowd then spends the afternoon singing hymns to the newly married couple.

Newlyweds assist the hosts with cleaning their homes and washing the dishes after the ceremony has ended. The Amish do not wear wedding rings.

CHURCH Each Sunday, Amish families gather for church services conducted in German in homes across the countryside. A week prior to each church service, a green (sometimes gray or white) church wagon takes items such as hymn books, benches, hat racks and dishes to the home where the church service will be held. The wagons are also used for both weddings and funerals.

There are 27 Amish church districts in the Arcola/Arthur area. The districts cover approximately 72 square miles, with

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Arthur in the center of the settlement. While a bishop, two ministers and a deacon represent each district, there is no central authority.

Families take great care in preparing their homes for the lengthy church services. A very thorough cleaning of the home takes place prior to hosting. During each service, the congregation sits on backless benches. Boys sit with men, while girls sit with women.

are usually painted white. Often, hardwood floors, wood cabinets and cupboards, scatter rugs, and beautiful quilts add to the warmth and decor of the homes.

Amish homes are often large with several rooms opening into one large room where they may hold church services.

Homes are furnished simply, but comfortably.

FARMS Although Amish farms vary in size, the norm is 80 to 100 acres. Each Amish farm family has approximately 12 Belgian horses, or working horses, which pull farm equipment in the fields. The families also own 2 to 3 horses which are used for pulling the buggies.

Amish farmers often raise hogs, cattle, many Shoe Your Complete Family chickens, turkeys and goats. Typically, a and Hat Brands Shoe Store farmer raises one kind of animal, while another farmer raises a different kind of farm animal. For example, one farmer may raise chickens, while another farmer may raise hogs, and so on. A common practice is to have a “butcher day,” during which several families will go together to purchase animals from a farmer — hogs for example. The families will then divide the meat among themselves.

In addition, Amish women often plant large gardens, and many families pluck fresh fruit from orchards and gather berries from homegrown patches.

The main crops planted by Amish families include wheat, oats, clover and corn. Until a few 217-543-2082 years ago, farming was a way of life for nearly Monday–Friday 8–5, Saturday 8–3 all Amish families. In recent years, however, 2068 CR 1800 E, Arthur, IL 61911 most Amish families have turned to woodworking, retail stores and other trades. In fact, several Amish people now travel to various manufacturing plants in the area to work.

The largest meal of the day for an 1/2 Mile South of Arthur • 2062 CR 1800 E • Arthur, IL. • 61911 • (217) 543-4093 HOURS: M, T, Th & F 8-5 • Sat. 8-3 (Closed Wed. & Sun.) Amish farm family is usually lunch. A Owners: Glenn & Irma Yoder and Richard & Joan Otto lighter supper is served. Soup is a popular supper meal. Family gardens supply much fresh produce for soups and other meals.

HOME IS CENTRAL TO THE AMISH FAMILY A typical Amish house has no carpeting, and plain “tied back” curtains hang at the windows during the day. The houses

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THE AMISH WAY OF LIFE The Amish have an active social life built around auctions, picnics, quilting bees, softball and visits with neighbors.

While many Amish subscribe to local newspapers, the Amish also read their own national newspaper, The Budget.

They also subscribe to many magazines, sometimes reflecting their trade or sometimes just for leisure.

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AMANA/MENNONITE/AMISH CONFUSION

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

MENNONITES: Mennonites, while often mistaken for Amish, honor different customs. They drive automobiles and use other modern-day amenities, and some do not follow other customs of the Amish.

Early Mennonites came to America to seek religious freedom in 1632. They settled in Pennsylvania and were divided into two groups.

Amish houses are usually painted white. Often, hardwood floors, wood cabinets and cupboards, scatter rugs, and beautiful quilts add to the warmth and decor of the homes.

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Illinois Amish Heritage Center Begins Fourth Year, Featuring Two Special Events The Illinois Amish Heritage Center, located three miles east of Arthur, IL, and six miles west of Arcola and Interstate 57, is beginning its fourth year. Two historic Amish houses were moved to the 5-acre location in September of 2016 and will be the main attraction at this new Amish heritage site.

The first house was built by Moses Yoder shortly after his arrival in Illinois in 1865. Yoder, Daniel Miller, and Daniel Otto and their families were the first Amish immigrants to settle near Arthur, IL, in that year. Moses Yoder’s house, along with the second house built in 1882 by later immigrant Daniel Schrock, were saved from demolition in 1999 and were in storage behind Yoder’s Kitchen.

The Yoder house was moved part of the way to its new home with an eighthorse hitch of Amish horses on September 20, 2016. Both houses made the rest of the trip pulled by trucks to the new 5acre site located on the north side of Route 133 about a mile west of Chesterville between Arcola and Arthur.

The Moses Yoder and Daniel Schrock houses will be the centerpieces showcasing the area’s Amish heritage. The Schrock house is nearing completion with the addition of a modern bathroom and kitchen. The Yoder house is still under restoration but is open for tours during special events.

TWO EVENTS SET FOR 2020 Two major special events are planned for 2020 at the Illinois Amish Heritage Center. The first event will be held on Saturday, June 6. “From Sheep to Clothing and Quilts” will feature the process of taking wool from the sheep to spinning, weaving into cloth and then being made into clothing and quilts. Sheep shearing, cleaning and processing wool, spinning, weaving, and quilting will be demonstrated. A petting zoo, pony rides, food concessions, and other activities will also be featured along with an exhibit of early quilts and coverlets.

The “4th Annual Steam Threshing Show” will take place on the Heritage Center grounds this summer, on Friday, July 30 and Saturday, August 1. The event will involve an array of activities and demonstrations designed to show how crops were grown and harvested in

the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Amish continue using many of these methods in their farming operations today. The show continues to expand, and this year’s show promises to be the biggest and best show yet.

As in past years the show will focus on the threshing of oats with an early 20th century threshing machine, belt driven by an early steampowered tractor. An exciting addition in 2020 will be a threshing machine powered by five teams of horses along with steam and gasoline powered threshing machines.

Other demonstrations will involve various types of early horse-powContinued On Page 23

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ARCOLA: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

Arcola: Pop Art, Festivals, Raggedy Ann History

A warm welcome greets visitors to Arcola, located just off Interstate 57 at Exit 203. Situated in the heart of Illinois Amish Country, visitors enjoy Arcola and the surrounding Amish countryside. Arcola is also proud to be the birthplace of Johnny Gruelle, creator of the much loved symbols of Americana, Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy. Many people also travel to Arcola to shop for Amish-made furniture, to dine in the local restaurants, shop the unique and friendly stores, participate in the town’s fabulous festivals, and learn more area history. The community hosts several major celebrations that annually draw thousands of guests.

a Birthday Party on June 12. For a full listing of 2020 Raggedy Rally events visit arcolachamber.com or Visit Raggedy Ann Rally on Facebook or contact Kathy Ellis at 217-251-7947.

NEW “A WALK THROUGH TIME MUSEUM” Located in downtown Arcola, the new A Walk Through Time Museum, featuring Raggedy Ann and Andy, is open Thursdays through Saturdays 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Along with Raggedy Ann and Andy memorabilia, the center features Arcola’s history and offers information on local attractions such as: History of Raggedy Ann and Andy; Originals by Johnny Gruelle and R.B. Gruelle; A Local 2020 RAGGEDY ANN RALLY Heroes’ section displaying VietArcola honors its famous son, nam War memorabilia; Arcola Johnny Gruelle, and his beloved Arcola’s Broom Corn Festival draws huge crowds.

Industrial Display; Arcola Tradicreations, Raggedy Ann and Andy, annually with a weekend jam-packed with events for Raggedy tion of Excellence in Sports; Walldog Murals in Arcola display; Hisenthusiasts. This year the rally will be on June 12-14. Raggedy Andy tory of the Railroad; Old Arcola Display; River to Rail Display; and celebrates his 100th Birthday in 2020. We will celebrate in Arcola with much more.

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ARCOLA’S BROOM CORN FESTIVAL The Broom Corn Festival is the oldest of Arcola’s annual events. In 2020, Arcola celebrates the town’s 50th Annual Arcola Broom Corn Festival. The annual festival lasts three days, beginning Friday afternoon, September 11, with the National Broom Corn Sweeping contest, and continues through Sunday, September 13. (THE FESTIVAL IS ALWAYS HELD THE WEEKEND FOLLOWING THE LABOR DAY HOLIDAY.) The annual Broom Corn Festival is one of the most popular annual events in Illinois. It draws more than 60,000 visitors to the city with its legendary stage acts, craft vendors, food booths and a huge parade featuring the nationally-recognized Arcola Lawn Rangers, (chosen to be an entrant in former President Barack Obama’s first inaugural parade) and as many as 175 other entrants.

For decades, Arcolans referred to the community as the "Broom Corn Capital of the World." Indeed, it was. Arcola stood as one of the nation’s top producers of broom corn, a tall, unusual variety of sorghum that is used as a raw material in the manufacture of brooms.

Arcola’s Raggedy Ann & Andy tribute sculpture.

The modern parade rekindles the spirit of the times of yesteryear, when farmers hitched their horses to wagons loaded with the year’s harvest and headed toward town. Once in Arcola, they rolled down Main Street proudly displaying their haul while enroute to one of the many local broom factories. While broom corn is no longer grown in the fertile farmland that surrounds Arcola, factories that were born of those earlier times remain much the heart of the community, and the local economy.

The Arcola Chamber of Commerce annually sponsors the popular family festival, and the organization has built a storied tradition of success in bringing to Arcola entertainers who seem to explode onto the national music scene either just before, or just after, taking the stage at the Broom Corn Festival.

Along with the featured performer, several other musical acts highlight the festival, including those performing in the Broom Corn Festival

beer tent, which attracts huge evening crowds.

The festival also features a long list of events celebrating the community’s heritage. These include broom-making demonstrations, a broom sweeping contest, children’s entertainment, carnival rides and craft booths that line the streets along with delicious festival foods. For additional information on the festival, contact the Arcola Chamber of Commerce at 217-268-4530 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.

ARCOLA: A CENTRAL ILLINOIS POP-ART MECCA Arcola offers visitors a collection of public pop art, which includes 15 outdoor murals highlighting area history, Raggedy Ann and Andy sculptures, the beautiful and moving Veteran’s Memorial, the Hippie Memorial, and the new “Sweeping Beauties,” (which pay tribute to Arcola’s historical connection to the broom industry) whimsical over-sized brooms that enhance Arcola’s lamp-posts with “puntastic” themes.

Murals include: a mural dedicated to Arcolan Joe Ernst (WWll French Medal of Honor recipient) and Ella Fitzgerald; Raggedy Ann and Andy; the City of New Orleans train; Clayton Moore and the Lawn Rangers; Pfeiffer Seed Company; broom corn and Arcola’s famous annual Broom Corn Festival; an Arcola football themed mural; historic Route 45; the local Amish culture; the Arcola Candy Kitchen; the Hispanic migration to Arcola; The Arcola Sweet Shop; and, a painting dedicated to the Arcola Opera House and “Ozzie and Harriett” during the 1935 Homecoming event. Visit www.arcolawalldogsproject.com.

Visit the Hippie Memorial. Since he passed away, memorial creator Arcolan Robert Moomaw's America has become a different place, as interpreted by the memorial in Arcola. The Hippie Memorial is located on North Oak Street.

The town’s public art has been “swept” to new heights with a project spearheaded by Pat Monahan. Twelve brightly illustrated, oversized brooms have been placed on lampposts in historic downtown Arcola.

Reminiscent of Chicago’s painted cows of a few years ago, Arcola has adopted the slogan “Come See Our Sweeping Beauties.”

ARCOLA NATIVE JOHNNY GRUELLE: CREATOR OF RAGGEDY ANN AND ANDY Here’s a bit of a history lesson: Johnny Gruelle, a well-known artist and illustrator who created Raggedy Ann and Andy, was born in Arcola in 1880 to artistic parents R.B. and Alice Gruelle. R.B. was one of the famous Hoosier Group of Impressionist artists. From his youth, art was a major influence 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 cartooning and magazine/newspaper illustration. He was employed by publications including The Indianapolis Star, The Cleveland Press and The New York Herald. Probably his most famous comic strip was Mr. Twee Deedle. His cartoons, illustrations and illustrated stories also appeared in well known magazines of the time such as McCall’s, The Ladies World and The Illustrated Sunday Magazine.

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Gruelle continued his growth as an artist and, after struggling through a tragic event that affected his own life, created the famed Raggedy 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 became one of Marcella’s favorite companions. The name Raggedy Ann may have come from a combination of two of James Whitcomb Riley’s (a friend) poems, “The Raggedy Man” and “Little Orphant Annie.”

Marcella tragically died in childhood, and it is said to have been at this time that Johnny Gruelle began to write down the stories he had created for Marcella with the rag doll as its main character. He patented and trademarked Raggedy Ann in 1915. The first Raggedy Ann book was published in 1918 and was dedicated to “the millions of children who have loved a rag doll.” Gruelle published a total of 40 books for children. He included many of Marcella’s other dolls in the stories creating such characters as Brown Bear and Eddie Elephant. The story messages are happy, filled with a 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 remains strongly committed to the story themes and art created by Johnny.

Johnny Gruelle’s granddaughter, Joni Gruelle Wannamaker, resides in Arcola where, for over a decade, she and her late husband, Tom Wannamaker, owned and operated a museum dedicated to Johnny Gruelle. Joni, daughter of Worth and Susie Gruelle, is a talented artist as well, and continues to work with publishers on new Raggedy Ann and Andy merchandise.

ARCOLA AREA AMISH SETTLEMENT Illinois’ largest Amish settlement is located just west of Arcola. The rural area is lined with Amish businesses, homes, and schools. Drivers share the roads with horse-drawn buggies and bicycles.

The Illinois Amish are tied to their Reformation beginnings by their history, faith, simple way of life and plain dress. The Amish grew out of the Reformation Anabaptist movement that began in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1525. The movement included the Swiss Brethren and the Hutterites in Southern Europe, and the Mennonites in the north of Europe. Anabaptists insisted on baptizing believing adults rather than infants. Refusal to follow any government or to fight in armies led to persecution by Catholic and Protestant 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 members who broke the rules of the church. After the two split, Amish families began moving to the United States in the early 1700s, and, today, there are no Amish in Europe. After moving into small settlements, the Amish moved westward in the 1830s and reached Peoria, IL. That group later became Mennonite. The Old Order Amish who settled in the Arthur-Arcola area originated from Pennsylvania.

Today, the local Amish community consists of approximately 4,300 people and is divided into 25 church districts. Living without electricity and using horses for transportation and field work, the Amish families were, at first, engaged primarily in farming.

In recent decades, as it became increasingly difficult to acquire farmland, Amish men began establishing thriving businesses. With woodworking businesses and establishments based on other such trades, many tourists now are drawn to the area to buy beautifully crafted Amish furniture, handmade Amish quilts and other products produced by local Amish families.

Arcola’s new “Sweeping Beauties.”

Arcola Phone: 217-268-4000 www.choicehotels.com Exit 203 at I-57 & Rt. 133 Opposite Dairy Queen Free Continental Breakfast AARP Discount Jacuzzi Rooms Pets with Permission Outdoor Pool

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AMAZING ARCOLA AND SPECIAL EVENTS: THE HOLIDAYS The Country Spirit Antique Show and Sale is scheduled for Nov. 6 Visitors also receive a special welcome during the Christmas holiday and 7 at the Arcola Center, 107 W. Main St., and The Best Western Plus, season when shoppers can enjoy holiday music played through speakers 917 Green Mill Road. Visit countryspiritshow@gmail.com. lining the town’s sidewalks, festively decorated storefronts, streets and Aikman’s Wildlife Adventure Park opened in 2016 in rural Arcola. windows. Small town America hospitality often includes caroling by Forty acres have been dedicated to offering a car/or horse-drawn wagon local church choirs. The holiday season kicks off in November when drive-through adventure, as well as a walkstore owners host annual holiday Open House weekends. Specific dates and through area, an aviary and a behind-theevents will be announced. Traditionally, scenes experience viewing and personally the open houses feature holiday treats, exinteracting with more than 200 animals and tended hours, caroling, special merchan68 species from all over the world. Visit dise and more. www.aikmanwildlife.com.

HISTORIC BUSINESS DISTRICT The community offers a warm welcome to Arcola’s Main Street business district visitors as well as unique shopping in charmalso features well-maintained, recently ing stores, friendly service, and ample storerenovated historic buildings, including the front parking. Spend the night in Arcola at a Otto Building on Main Street. Recently, hotel including Arcola’s Quality Inn or The owner of the building and local businessArcola Best Western Plus Hotel and Conferman, Wilmer Otto, received national attenence Center. tion. He headed a group that arranged to A friendly welcome awaits at even more have an authentic Mesker Bros. Iron Arcola businesses including Kauffman’s Works storefront (located in the neighborAmish Furniture Outlet.

There are 15 Arcola Walldog murals. ing town of Stewardson) restored and Local restaurants feature mouth-watering moved to Arcola to replace the facade of the specialties. Dine in local favorite restaurants landmark Arcola building. The Mesker storefront in Stewardson had including Hen House, Monicals, Carriage Crossing, Dairy Queen, and more. graced the quickly deteriorating former Opera Hall there. The Otto BuildILLINOIS AMISH HERITAGE CENTER ing’s original Mesker storefront was destroyed by fire in 1950. A special The Illinois Amish Heritage Center, located about six miles west of community ceremony dedicated the restoration project made possible Arcola and I-57, is beginning its fourth year. Two historic Amish through the collaboration of the two towns. There are also several other houses were moved to the 5-acre location in September of 2016 and historic Mesker storefronts in Arcola. will be the main attraction at this new Amish heritage site.

GREEN MILL VILLAGE For every stage of life... from special events, conferences, weddings and family gatherings to selecting a new apartment, Green Mill Village invites you to be a part of its vitality and tradition. Located at the Gateway to Central Illinois’ Amish Country in Arcola, this mixed-use development brings together destination and regional travelers. Visit www.gmvdevelopment.com.

THE ARCOLA ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD TRAIN DEPOT The Depot should be the first stop for visitors who come to the area.

The historic brick building (circa 1885) is a welcome center, tourist information center, museum and home of the Arcola Chamber of Commerce offices. It contains visitor information about points of interests in Arcola, the nearby Amish settlement and the surrounding areas.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff is happy to greet visitors and help with information for an Amazing Arcola experience. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed on Sunday and some holidays.

The Arcola community has prepared for the future by making upgrades to some of its most historic buildings. The Arcola Public Library, built over a century ago with funds provided by Andrew Carnegie, has undergone a renovation and expansion project.

The school athletic motto, “Winning Is Our Tradition,” is representative of the importance athletics have played, not only in the history of the community, but in the lives of current students and fans. In 2015, the Arcola football team again won the Class 1A state champiFOR CARRY OUT CALL: 268-3712 onship, and in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, the team again made the state playoffs.

Sarah Bush Lincoln’s Arcola Health Care facility, a chiropractic center, a new fitness center, as well as a facility for one of the community’s banks, have changed the landscape of the west side of town.

The Arcola location of The Okaw Farmer’s Cooperative has added to the town’s southwest cityscape with a huge grain bin. Total capacity at • • the facility now totals approximately 3,500,000 bushels of grain, reflect-

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ing the vital role agriculture plays in the area. Douglas County (the flattest county in Illinois) is well known for its rich soil.

During the autumn, Arcola’s great old maple trees are magnificent on Main Street with beautiful fall foliage. Visitors will also want to take advantage of area bike trails. Altogether, Arcola is a great place to visit and an even better place to live. Contact the Arcola Chamber of Commerce at (800) 336-5456 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.

2020 Arcola Calendar of Events All dates and times are subject to change. Please follow the Arcola Chamber of Commerce on Facebook and visit www.arcolachamber.com for up-to-date information.

April 4: Miss Arcola Pageant.

April 18: Strides Against Hunger. Raise money for Food Pantry.

April 19: Arcola Chamber Scholastic Dinner. Kaskaskia CC. April 25: Arcola Chamber Sponsored Daddy Daughter Dance.

Arcola Center, from 5 to 7 p.m. Call Depot at 217-268-4530.

May 3: Cinco De Mayo Celebration. Downtown Pavilion, noon.

June 12: Raggedy Andy’s 100th Birthday Celebration. Arcola Best Western.

June 12, 13: Raggedy Ann and Andy Rally. For details, reservation forms and vendor information, visit Raggedy Ann Rally on Facebook or call Kathy Ellis at 217-251-7947.

June 13: Arcola Market. 2nd Saturday of each month. Downtown Pavilion.

June 27: Pop The Top Car Show. Downtown Arcola.

June 28: 4th of July Fireworks. Moore Park.

July 5-11: 90th Moultrie-Douglas Co. Fair. Arthur Fairgrounds.

July 11: Arcola Market. Downtown Pavilion August 7, 8: Arcola City-Wide Garage Sale.

August 8: Arcola Market. Downtown Pavilion.

August 14: 2nd Annual Our Town Arcola. Downtown Pavilion.

September 11-13: 50th Arcola Broomcorn Festival.

September 19: Amish Country Bicycle Tour.

October 10: Arcola Chamber Trivia Night.

November 6, 7: Country Spirit Antique Show. Arcola Center and Best Western. Fri. 1-4 p.m. - Sat. 8-3 p.m. countryspiritshow@gmail.com.

November 6, 7, 13, 14: Holiday Open House. Downtown Arcola streets full of ideas for unique home décor and more.

November 21: Holiday Bazaar and Christmas Décor Sale. Arcola Center.

December 6: Holiday House Walk. Tour area homes decorated for the holidays. 217-202-2127.

December 6: The Candy Cane Cafe. From 1 to 4 p.m., United Methodist Church, 121 S. Locust St., Arcola.

December 12: Santa Is Coming To Town. Christmas Parade.

Downtown Arcola.

ered farm equipment, antique tractors, early engines, field demonstrations, and the “Parade of Power” each day. Craft booths, train rides, a petting zoo, activities for the kids, and tours of the historic houses will also be featured along with food booths and meals served in the newly concreted pavilion.

Illinois Amish Heritage Center: Continued From Page 17

The completion of a bathroom and modern kitchen facilities in the Schrock house will allow the site to host meetings, dinners, and educational programs, as well as interpreting the historic features of the house.

LOCAL SUPPORT NEEDED Funding has already been raised in the local area for the restoration of the two historic Amish houses and other work completed to date.

Fund-raising efforts began with a capitol campaign in 2018 and will continue into 2020 and beyond to fund the new visitor/museum center, barn, school, and needed staff. The whole project will cost over $2 million, so everyone’s support is crucial to the project’s success.

BENEFITS TO LOCAL TOURISM Successful Amish museums and heritage centers can be found in Amish communities in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and other areas.

An Amish Heritage Center for the Illinois Amish is long overdue. Over 220,000 tourists visit the Arthur Welcome Center each year. Most come to see Amish Country and the new Amish Heritage Center will give visitors an educational and enjoyable introduction for their visit to the area.

The Center will work with other attractions, hotels, and businesses in the area to market tour packages, attract bus tours, and make Illinois Amish Country a major tourist destination. Moving the two historic Amish houses in 2016 was the first step in this exciting project for Illinois Amish country.

For more information, call Wilmer Otto at 217-721-9266. Also, look for the Illinois Amish Heritage Center at www.illinoisamish.org and on Facebook.

Steam Threshing Show

The Daniel Schrock House at the Illinois Amish Heritage Center

2020-2021 GOALS In 2020, plans call for the construction of a 9,600-square-foot Visitor/Museum Center building, which will feature an orientation film and exhibits that tell the history and story of the Amish culture. Current Amish culture will also be featured to give visitors an understanding of how the Amish live, work, play, and socialize today. The museum’s gift shop will feature a wide range of locally made Amish quilts, crafts, foods, and other items.

Plans are also underway for the moving and restoration of an 1879 Amish barn that will serve as a focus for re-creating late 19th and early 20th century Amish agriculture. The barn will be dismantled, the timbers repaired and replaced as needed, and then re-erected during a community barn raising. Another historic Amish building that will be moved to the site is a ca. 1900 Amish school.

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AIKMAN WILDLIFE ADVENTURE: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES Aikman Wildlife Adventure: Take A Walk On The Wild Side

ebras in the Midwest? Yes! Come to Aikman Wildlife Adventure this year to have an experience of a lifetime. The 40-acre park, which began its first year of operation in 2016, is located on the Illinois prairie along the picturesque Kaskaskia River just 5 miles west of Interstate 57 at exit 203 (Illinois Route 133), at the site of the former Rockome Gardens.

2020 brings new exciting experiences to the park. Add excitement to your adventure by taking a walk on the wild side with one of our new animal encounters we now have available.

Animals you can get up close and personal include our reptiles, rabbits, feathered creatures and more. Another new addition to the park will include our Museum of Prehistoric Life. Guests will be able to experience a collection of life-size reconstructions of prehistoric mammals, as well as a featured computer generated imagery presentation. Check the park’s website at www.aikmanwildlife.com and Facebook for further updates and to watch for the grand opening.

Aikman Wildlife Adventure offers visitors and their families an outdoor experience viewing and interacting with a variety of animal species from many parts of the world, including the United States, Europe, Africa, 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 experience 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 people are innately drawn and are curious about animals. Aikman Wildlife Adventure is designed to help young people be motivated to want to be outside. 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.”

Visitors can enjoy the more than 200 animals and over 68 species throughout the entire park. Along the Drive-Thru Adventure, visitors drive their own vehicles through the mile-long path to enjoy the large, freeroaming animals including zebras, emus, camels, bison and more. Illinois law prohibits feeding the animals from your car, since it is an unguided tour. However, those wishing to pet and feed the animals can hop on a Wagon Ride Adventure (where treats for the animals are provided) that is narrated by an educated guide. The wagons hold 20 people, and go out every half hour by demand. The wagon ride is approximately 30 minutes long. It is very exciting to participate in the wagon ride because you never know what animals you will see, as it is different every time. Some of the animals you might see include watusi, water buffalo, elk and wildebeest.

Scottish Highlanders, a type of cattle often called “hairy cows” because of their shaggy coats, also hang out in the free roaming area, as well as wild turkeys and exotic sheep.

The Arabian camel you will see, also called dromedary, has one hump, while the Bactrain camel has two humps. Arabian camels’ native habitat is the Middle East and the Horn of Africa, while Bactrain camels can be found in Central Asia. Brown, white and blackish-colored fallow deer, PAGE 24 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

about the size of white-tailed deer, will also be roaming around in the Drive-Thru section.

Families who enjoy nature films will be excited to see one of the most well-known animals found on the Serengeti plains and other areas of Africa brought to the Great Plains of Central Illinois — the blue wildebeest. Indeed, Serengeti is derived from a Maasai word that means “endless plains.”

What is known as the “Serengeti Wildebeest Migration” is an annual natural phenomenon that takes place between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, where up to 2 million animals, mostly wildebeest and zebra, move in a clockwise rotational route determined by the availability of grazing and water.

In addition to the blue wildebeest, other African animals in the DriveThru area — such as zebras and elands, Africa’s largest antelope — also live happily in the park.

Another adventure that visitors can experience is the Walk-Thru area with Petting Zoo. This area resembles a traditional zoo, in that the animals are housed in their own particular habitat, which, however, have been created much larger than what can be found in a typical zoo.

While exploring the Walk-Thru area, visitors are able to see hyenas, servals (a smaller African cat), an Eurasian Eagle Owl, and coatimundi, which is a racoon-like animal found in Central and South America. Guests can pet and feed goats, sheep, cows and fallow deer, all frolicking at the petting zoo.

There are also opportunities to see African porcupines, hyenas, servals, a pair of ringtail lemurs, and two pot-bellied pigs. Also in the Walk-Thru area are two sulcata tortoises. Also called African spurred tortoises, these animals can reach 24 to 36 inches in length and can weigh up to 100 to 200 pounds.

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Another attraction is the aviary, where visitors can view exotic pheasants and water fowl species. Visitors also have the opportunity to pet and take pictures with kangaroos in their habitat.

The most up close and personal tour you can take at the park is called the Behind-the-Scenes Adventure. Visitors will be accompanied by a guide to go off “the beaten path,” making their own trail through the Drive-Thru in a six-seat UTV. Animals to be viewed in this adventure include two red and silver foxes.

When guests come out to the park, there is a playground for children to enjoy after visiting the animals.

In addition, Wildlife on Wheels is a hands-on educational experience brought directly to you. Each presentation includes four to six Ambassador Animals. Presentations are designed for groups of 30 to 40 guests for $125. Each additional presentation required for larger groups will be $100. Mileage charge for outside of Arthur/Arcola areas is 75 cents per mile.

Hungry for fun or just hungry? At Aikman Wildlife Adventure we can supply both fun and food. The Watering Hole is now open during normal park hours. Hot dogs, ice cream, shaved ice, and much more — are served by our friendly staff.

Getting married? The Loft is located in the second story of the red barn in the Walk-Thru area of the park. It features rustic lighting, ceiling fans and ramp entrance. Rental includes additional time for setup the day before and breakdown the day after your event. Chair rental is included. We also offer photography packages. Aikman Wildlife Adventure is the perfect place for unique photo opportunities, featuring well-kept grounds, free roaming animals and beautiful views.

From April until Memorial Day weekend, the park is open on Saturdays

from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Drive-Thru will be open as well, weather permitting. From Memorial Day weekend though Labor Day weekend, the park is open Thursday-Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the exception of Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday are reserved for group tours and student field trips. The park is open year round on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting.

Check out Aikman Wildlife Adventure’s Facebook like page or www.aikmanwildlife.com for the most current information about the park or call 217-268-3500 or email at info@aikmanwildlife.com. Before leaving the park, stop in the gift shop to take home a stuffed animal souvenir of your favorite animal you loved at the park.

Sign up for our newsletter through our website to receive discounts and the most current information about the park.

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ARTHUR: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

Arthur: Experience Amish Country Festivals, Auctions, Shops And Good Food

hroughout the village of Arthur and its surrounding area, vis- ioned way by horse-drawn implement, own many farms and busiitors will find a friendly, slow-paced atmosphere that lends it- nesses around the Arthur area. Visitors travel from across the globe self to the town’s adopted to experience the Amish motto, “You’re Only A Stranger lifestyle and enjoy the charm of Once.” With a population of only Arthur’s many locally owned 2,300, Arthur possesses many shops and cottage industries. distinctive qualities.

While the Amish community Located fewer than 10 miles enjoys its privacy, all are invited west of Interstate 57, Arthur to experience a whole separate provides a wonderful centerworld of commerce that springs piece for those looking for to life early each morning. unique shopping or the enrichMany Amish families own speing cultural experiences offered cialty shops creating handmade in the surrounding countryside. quilts, crafts and rugs, baked This includes the fourth-largest goods, handmade solid wood settlement of the Old Order furniture, lawn furniture and Amish in the United States, and outdoor buildings, milling the largest settlement in Illinois. shops, pallet shops, buggy shops, canvas shops, butcher The Illinois Amish commuArthur’s Visitor Center and poultry processing shops, nity has been central to life around Arthur for more than a century. The Amish, who dress con- food and spices in bulk and health food stores. Some of these shops servatively, travel in black buggies and work the soil the old-fash- are wholesale only, while many are open to the public.

Join us for a day of shopping in Arthur, Illinois!

ARTHUR 3RD SATURDAY

Market Bazaar

LARGE VARIETY OF VENDORS • Antiques • Homemade Crafts • Woodworking • Baked Goods

• Furniture • Collectibles • Pet Supplies • Direct Sales

Something New Every Month!

2020 DATES

March 21st • April 18th • May 16th June 20th • August 15th • Sept. 19th Oct. 17th • Nov. 21st • Dec. 19th

AMISH BUGGY RIDES (for donations & weather permitting)

9 AM - 4 PM Follow and like us onf

MERCHANT BUILDING MOULTRIE-DOUGLAS COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS 220 Jurgens Parkway • Arthur, Illinois 61911 Entrance is corner of Rt. 133 and Vine St. (behind Arthur High School) Off-street parking available.

For more information or new vendor inquiry Contact: Dawn Verci (309)253-6245 or arthur3rdsaturdaybazaar@gmail.com PAGE 26 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

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The Amish have large gardens and will share their bounty at roadside stands or through local auctions. Some have made a business with orchards, greenhouses and truck farms. They raise all kinds of farm animals and sell them at weekly auctions at the local sale barn. Visitors also come to Arthur to partake of delicious Amish foods, such as cinnamon rolls, breads and other delicious baked goods available at local bakeries and at the many benefit sales and auctions that fill the Arthur calendar. For a truly cultural experience, visitors can schedule a traditional Amish meal on an Amish farm through ACM Tours or Amish Adventures Tour Services, both located in downtown Arthur.

Amish cottage businesses are usually open Monday through Saturday throughout the year. Some open as early as 8 a.m. and close as late as 6 p.m. Those traveling to the area might want to seek information before making a trip to learn about certain holidays during which Amish workers close their shops to spend time with friends and family. For more information, visit www.IllinoisAmishCountry.com.

Visitors to the Arthur area should take special precautions while traveling the area’s roadways. Buggies travel at about 10 miles per hour and generally follow buggy paths along the edges of the main highways to ensure safety. Slow down and be careful when passing one on a rural roadway.

The Amish settlers of central Illinois, as one might guess, are genuinely friendly people. Visitors are encouraged to wave and greet them as they would when greeting old friends. Since Amish customs prohibit the use of camera equipment, Amish community members prefer they not be photographed or video recorded. Photographing Amish farms, animals and buggies, however, is generally allowed with a few exceptions.

The Arthur Freedom Celebration is held the Saturday prior to the 4th of July.

Arthur History The history of Arthur and the Illinois Amish dates to the mid1800s. Arthur was settled when three Amish gentlemen came to the area around 1865 looking for farmland that didn’t have the same rocky quality as the land in their native states of Pennsylvania and Maryland. They found such land in what was then known as The Big Slough. The land, which was located nine miles west of the already established community of Arcola, was saturated with water.

Once drained, however, the ground proved to be ideal for farming, with the flat, fertile fields of black soil representing some of the best land in the country.

We’ll make your dining experience special!

Yoder’s Kitchen is a full service family restaurant offering the best in Amish and Mennonite cooking. Our full menu features Yoder’s famous chicken, smoked pork chops and much more. We also offer a lunch and dinner buffet that includes all of our mouth-watering favorites.

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

See Us For All Your Catering Needs

Banquet Facilities We can accommodate groups from 30 to 200.

Let our experienced staff help plan your next special event.

1195 E. Columbia • Arthur, Illinois Monday - Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m Friday & Saturday Morning Breakfast Buffet.

7 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

• Closed Sundays •

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.

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In the early 1870s, a switch-track was needed for the new railroad crossing the swampy land between Paris and Decatur.

It was decided that it would be placed near today’s Vine Street, Arthur’s main street, and now the town’s primary commercial thoroughfare. The street separates the town into two counties, Douglas County to the east and Moultrie County to 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 at right angles to the railroad straddling the two counties on either side of Vine Street. Then, in 1873, when the village fathers petitioned to incorporate the community, it was discovered that another Illinois community used the name Glascow. After hearing the news, Mr. Hervey changed the name to Arthur to honor his favorite brother.

Events Visitors to Arthur and the surrounding area will notice many acres of flat, fertile farmland. Douglas County is the flattest county in Illinois. While it lacks undulating hills, however, it certainly doesn’t lack beauty. Broad vistas, sometimes stunning sunsets and the tree-lined banks of the nearby Kaskaskia River provide a wonderful backdrop to a land where beautiful horses graze in pastures.

Arthur hosts many major events each year, beginning with antique shows in March, Saturday markets and the Annual Amish Country Quilt Show and Auction in April.

The days and weeks that follow are filled with events such as the Arthur Freedom Celebration, held the Saturday prior to the 4th of July. This gigantic fireworks display features entertainment, an air show with World War II aircraft, helicopter rides and skydivers, and a huge 16-inch firework shell amid the evening fireworks display.

Other Arthur events include The June Strawberry Jam Festival and the Freedom Celebration parade, both in June, followed by the Moultrie-Douglas County Fair in July and the Mennonite Relief Sale in August.

September brings the annual Amish Country Cheese Festival (held on Saturday, Sunday and Monday of Labor Day weekend); The Great Pumpkin Patch; an annual bicycle ride that attracts more than 800 riders who love the flat, quiet roads and the Amish meals served to them; several special horse sales and the Annual Chet Kingery Bluegrass Festival.

Then in October, don’t forget the annual CIBR-BBQ Cook-off (Central Illinois Braggin’ Rights), which is designated as an Illinois State Championship and KCBSsanctioned event. Visitors and townspeople alike are lured to come to Arthur’s down-

59th Annual

ENJOY OUR OLD-FASHIONED SODA FOUNTAIN

Arthur Mennonite Relief Sale Aug. 28 & 29, 2020

At the Otto Center–1/2 mile south of Arthur

Friday:

4:30-7:00 P.M. ~ BBQ Pulled Pork

• SHAKES • MALTS • FLOATS • SODAS • SUNDAES • DRUM STICKS • GREEN RIVERS • ICE CREAM CONES

Instant Photo Processing Unique Gift Items Hometown Drug Store

Downtown Arthur

118 South Vine Street • 217.543.2913

Hours: Monday-Friday 8 am - 6 pm • Saturday 8 am - 2 pm PAGE 28 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

Auction Begins ~ 6:00 P.M.

Saturday:

Free P & Ad arking missi on

Auction begins ~ 9:00 A.M. Children’s Auction ~ 10:00 A.M. Silent Auction ~ 10:00 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. Petting Zoo

Food:

6:00 - 10:00 A.M. ~ Pancakes & Sausage 11:00 - 2:00 P.M. ~ Chicken Dinner, Hand-crafted Butter y Pork Chops, River Fries Furniture and quilts Peadros & Baked Goods

For more information on Sale items and location

visit our Web site at www.arthurreliefsale.org or call Richard Beachy at 217-259-1427 or DuWayne & Karen Miller at 217-254-4645

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town just by the aroma of the BBQ cookers as it permeates the air.

The festival season slows down just a bit with another huge Antique & Primitive weekend the second weekend in November; Amish Country Christmas Open Houses in downtown Arthur the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving; and a Black Friday shopping event, held both downtown and on County Line Road. In addition, a house walk and lighted Christmas parade the first Saturday in December is followed by the annual Central Illinois Outdoor Expo held in February 2021 at the Otto Center.

Monthly Events: The 3rd Saturday Craft and Flea Market at the MoultrieDouglas County Fairgrounds is conducted the third Saturday of each month March through December indoors and outdoors, depending on weather. More than 50-plus antique, craft and flea market vendors are included.

Shopping Picture yourself in the Arthur Amish Country shops. Out in the Amish countryside you’ll find country grocery stores, quilt and fabric shops, bakeries, orchards and fruit stands, buggy shops, woodworking shops and more. These “Country Shops” are unique opportunities to interact directly with 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 in downtown Arthur.

Visitors can shop for Amish crafted furniture at The Wood Loft or the Amish Country Heirlooms or quality antiques at Yoder’s Lamps and Antiques. Quilters treasure Stitch and Sew or The Villa. The Tastee Cup will delight with frozen yogurt, ice cream, Italian ice, gelato and custard, while Dicks Pharmacy features an old-fashioned soda

fountain. Frenchie’s Boutique offers trendy apparel and clothing.

Cheese and baked goods can be enjoyed at Heartland Deli and Delights.

Unique gifts are available in shops, such as The Arthur General Store, Amish Country Heirlooms, Winter’s Gallery & Boutique 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 such as Prairie Sunset Bed & Breakfast or an AirBNB such as Vera’s Cottage.

Arthur offers many interesting eating options. Yoder’s Kitchen is Arthur’s largest restaurant with banquet facilities.

For those in need of “rejuvenation,” just down the road is RoseLen’s Coffees & Delights. Try out Pauly’s BBQ for some of central Illinois’ finest BBQ. For breakfast and lunch downtown, visitors will find Heartland Deli & Delights open for breakfast and lunch, serving sandwiches, soups, salads, and fresh baked goods every day.

Visitors can also experience a “farmer’s cafe” at the R&I Restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch with daily specials. Los Gallos Mexican Grill is open for lunch and dinner, with a full menu and daily specials. Angela’s Food & Spirits is a great bar and grill. Café at the Barn, located on the north edge of Arthur, is open for breakfast and lunch, and don’t forget La Casada Mexican Grill on East Route 133 in the Yoder Center.

2020 Arthur Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

March 21: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

March 26-28: C.A.M.S. Rummage Sale.

Otto Center.

March 27: Spring Toy Auction. TriCounty Auction (TCA).

March 28: Spring Semi-Annual Consignment Sale. TCA. April 4: Downtown Arthur Market. 107 S. Vine Street.

April 4: Bi-Annual Fish Fry. Otto Center.

April 4: Standardbred Horse Sale.

Arthur Sale Barn.

Call the Arthur Welcome Center at 217-543-2242 or visit www.arthuril.us or www.ArthurFestivals.com for additional area information and a complete schedule of events.

Collectibles • Clothing Shoes • Housewares • Books 1065 E. Columbia • Arthur, IL 61911 • 217-543-2421

Monday-Friday 10-4 • Saturday 10-3 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 29

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April 11: Easter Egg Hunt. 1 p.m. at ALAH High School.

April 12: Easter Sunday Community Sunrise Service.

April 17: Moultrie County Beacon Benefit Auction. OC. April 18: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

April 20-25: Quilt Walk. Maps at Welcome Center (WC).

April 23-25: 31st Annual Arthur Quilt Show & Auction. OC. May Every Tuesday & Friday: Produce Auction. 10 a.m May 1: Produce Annual Spring Tree & Landscaping Auction.

May 2: Downtown Arthur Market. 107 S. Vine Street.

May 9: Standardbred & Pony Sale. Arthur Sale Barn.

May 13: Ascension Day. All Amish businesses closed.

May 15, 16: Town Garage Sales. Maps at WC. May 16: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

May 31: Heart of America Pony Sale. TCA. June Every Tuesday & Friday: Produce Auction. 10 a.m.

June 1: Circus. ALAH High School.

June 5, 6: Strawberry Jam Festival/Downtown Arthur Market.

June 6: Strawberry Social. OC. June 6: Sheep to Clothing. Illinois Amish Heritage Center.

June 20: Amish Country Tractor Cruise. 50-mile cruise.

June 20: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

June 27: Arthur Freedom Celebration Parade. 2 p.m.

June 27: Arthur Freedom Celebration/Fireworks.

July Every Tuesday & Friday: Produce Auction. 10 a.m.

July 4: Downtown Arthur Market. 107 S. Vine Street.

July 5-11: 90th Annual Moultrie-Douglas County Fair.

July 9: Semi-Annual Summer Picker Auction. TCA. July 9-11: East Central Illinois Shop Hop. July 31: Steam Threshing Show. Amish Heritage Center.

August Every Tuesday & Friday: Produce Auction at 10 a.m.

August 1: Steam Threshing Show. Amish Heritage Center.

August 1: Downtown Arthur Market. 107 S. Vine Street.

August 7: Horse/Pony Sale. Arthur Sale Barn.

August 15: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

August 28, 29: Arthur Mennonite Relief Sale. OC. August 31: East Central Illinois Standardbred Auction. ASB.

September Every Tuesday & Friday: Produce Auc. 10 a.m.

September 5-7: Arthur Amish Country Cheese Festival.

September 5-8: Bluegrass Festival. The Great Pumpkin Patch.

September 11, 12: Town Garage Sales. Maps at WC. September 12-October 31: The Great Pumpkin Patch Opens.

September 19: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

September 19: “The Amish Country Tour” Annual Bike Ride.

September 25: Fall Toy Auction. Tri-County Auction Facility.

September 26: Fall Consignment Sale. Tri-County Auction.

October Every Tuesday & Friday: Produce Auction. 10 a.m.

October 1-31: The Great Pumpkin Patch open daily.

October 2, 3: Arthur Homecoming Weekend.

October 3: Downtown Arthur Market. 107 S. Vine Street.

October 9: CIBR SCA Steak Cookoff Competition.

October 9, 10: CIBR-BBQ KCBS Competition.

October 17: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

October 23, 24: 27th Annual Haiti Auction. OC. October 24-31: Lighted Pumpkin House Display.

October 31: Halloween Festival. Arthur High School.

November 7: Bi-Annual Fish Fry. OC. November 13, 14: Holidays Bazaar. United Methodist Church.

November 13, 14: Antique Show/Sale. Fairgrounds.

November 13, 14: Antique Shows/Sale. Arcola Best Western.

November 14: Antique Show & Sale. OC. November 20: Christmas Auction. OC. November 21: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

November 21: Amish Country Christmas Open Houses.

November 27: Black Friday Shopping Event.

November 27: Antiques/Collectibles Auction. Auction Facility.

November 28: Ad Signage, Petroliana, Collectibles Auction.

December 5: Breakfast with Santa. Yoder’s Kitchen.

December 5: Arthur House Walk from 2 to 4 p.m.

December 5: Lighted Christmas Parade. Downtown. 5:30 p.m.

December 5: Rabbit Breeders Association Show. OC. December 19: 3rd Saturday Market. Fairgrounds.

December 25: Christmas Day Lunch. Christian Church.

Cable, HBO2, Free WIFI, Updated Rooms & Friendly, Local Management I-57 exit 203, 9 miles west on Rt.133 785 E. Columbia • Arthur, IL

217-543-3321 Find us on Expedia & Booking.com

www.arthurcountryinn.com PAGE 30 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

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A

TUSCOLA: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

Tuscola: In The Heart Of Amish And Farming Country

visit to Tuscola leads you into a rural community, positioned in the heart of Illinois Amish and farming country, but you will also find world-class golf, trendy, designer brand shopping, and eclectic artisan offerings. Tuscola epitomizes the harmony of “trending rural.”

Tuscola’s Festival Corner.

LOCATION It’s easy to get to Tuscola. The city is accessible from three major routes. Conveniently located along Interstate 57 at Exit 212, and at the intersection of U.S. routes 36 and 45, Tuscola is nearly equidistant from Indianapolis, Chicago and St. Louis.

SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP With name-brand items and great prices — from Coach and Ralph Lauren to Old Navy and Under Armor — Tuscola Outlet Shops offers a big city shopping experience, without the big city hassle.

TRENDING RURAL For more information visit : Tuscola.org

UNIQUES & ANTIQUES Tuscola’s quaint downtown is home to many specialty shops, including Winterberry and the stylish Kelsey Furniture. Visitors are welcome to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant art culture, where timeless traditions and artistic innovation thrive side-by-side.

Meet artists at the Vault Art Gallery, enjoy hand crafted chocolates at Flesor’s Candy Kitchen, or shop for oneof-a-kind items at Sweet Soul Boutique.

TAKE A SEAT AT OUR TABLE Whether in the mood for a hearty, made-fromscratch meal at The Pantry, or savory Italian at Joe’s Pizza, come to Tuscola hungry. Also, save room for dessert by trying the world-famous chocolate at Flesor’s Candy Kitchen.

Cast Iron Pub is open seven days a week, serving up handcrafted cocktails and craft beers.

PLAYTIME Ervin Park is fun for the whole family. It includes the Prairie Land Pride playground and Imagination Station toddler playground. In the summer, cool off at the Tuscola Swimming Pool.

In addition, take in the great outdoors with a long walk, a picnic or fishing at Wimple Park.

HIT THE LINKS Play a few rounds at Ironhorse Golf Club. An 18-hole links style championship course, it’s rated 4.5/5 stars by Golf Digest magazine.

Downtown Tuscola o ers a truly unique dining experience!

From authentic casual dining to handcrafted cocktails, you can nd all that you’re craving in downtown!

Call toll-free (800) 441-9111

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TAKE A STROLL BACK IN TIME Marvel at Tuscola’s rich natural and cultural history by visiting the Douglas County Museum. Also, don’t forget to stop by the Tuscola Public Library, built in 1903 with a grant from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

Take time to experience the history of downtown Tuscola by strolling the self-guided walking tour available at www.tuscola.org.

Super 8

1007 E. Southline Rd Tuscola, IL 61953

• Newly Renovated Rooms

• Free High-Speed Internet • 64 Clean Comfortable Rooms

For Reservations Call: 217-253-5488 or 1-800-800-8000

• Free Super Start Breakfast • Free Local & Long Distance Phone Calls

• Free Cable TV with HBO, CNN, ESPN • King, Queen, Double Beds

The county courthouse houses the Douglas County Civil War display.

RELAX AND RECHARGE Tuscola has options to suit every taste and budget. Stay at one of the several hotels — including the Baymont Inn, Super 8, Holiday Inn Express and Cooper Motel — right in town.

For more information, visit www.tuscola.org or call toll free at 800-441-9111.

• Business Center In Lobby • Restaurant Next Door

Truck Parking on Premises Microwave & Refrigerator in All Rooms

Contact Information Tuscola Tourism, 214 N. Main Street, Tuscola, IL 61953.

Phone: 217-253-2112, toll free: 800-441-9111.

Email: tourism@tuscola.org. Website: www.tuscola.org.

COUPON

www.baymontinns.com

1006 Southline Drive, Tuscola, IL 61953

• FREE WIRELESS INTERNET SERVICE • 82 Deluxe Rooms • King Bed or 2 Queen Bed Rooms • Free Local Phone Calls • Free Cookies/Coffee • Free Cable TVHBO, CNN, ESPN, Disney & Nickelodeon

• Free Deluxe Hot Breakfast Buffet • Free Parking • Free USA Today Delivered To Rooms • Heated Indoor Pool/ Hot Tub • Just Minutes To Area Attractions

1201 Tuscola Blvd. • Tuscola, IL 61953 www.hiexpress.com/tuscolail tuscolahiex@mchsi.com Reservations: 217-253-6363 • 1-800-HOLIDAY Fax: 217-253-6655

PAGE 32 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

Phone: 217-253-3500

Fax: 217-253-2773 • Reservations: 877-229-6668 58 Completely Remodeled Rooms Indoor Pool & Whirlpool Fitness Center Complimentary Continental Breakfast With Hot Waffles In-Room Safes In-Room Coffee Makers 2 Luxurious Whirlpool Suites Free High Speed Internet Business Center In Lobby With Free High Speed Internet Refrigerator & Microwave In All Rooms

Must present coupon upon check-in. No other discounts apply.

Coupon not valid on weekends. Coupon Expires Dec. 31, 2020

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Ironhorse Golf Club

2020 Tuscola Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. For more information, visit www.tuscola.org/residents/community-events.

March 27: Kiwanis Fish Frye. Forty Martyrs Church Hall.

April 4: Kiwanis Easter Egg Hunt. Ervin Park at 9 a.m.

April 17, 18: Spring City-Wide Garage Sale.

May-August: Public library hosts outdoor movies one evening a month in the summer. For dates, visit www.tuscola.org.

May 23-26: Memorial Day Weekend Sale. Tuscola Outlet Shops.

June 6: Wheels Car Club Car Show. Downtown Tuscola from 4 to 9 p.m.

June 13: Relay for Life of Douglas County. Tuscola High School from 4 to 10 p.m.

July 4-6: Fourth of July Weekend Sale. Tuscola Outlet Shops.

July 4: Sparks in the Park Celebration. Tuscola’s 4th of July event in Ervin Park.

September 5-7: Labor Day Weekend Sale. Tuscola Outlet Shops.

September 18, 19: Fall Citywide Garage Sale Weekend.

Outlets of Tuscola

October 10: Odd Market. Handmade market at Tuscola Community Building.

October 23-31: Pumpkins in the Park. Downtown pumpkin display.

November 13, 14: Rural Life Antique Show. Douglas County Museum, Tuscola Community Building and the Main Street Center. Visit www.rurallifeantiqueshow.com, for more information.

November 27-29: After Thanksgiving Sale. Tuscola Outlet Shops.

December 4-6: Tuscola’s Annual Christmastown Celebration.

Visit www.tuscola.org, for more information.

December 6: Breakfast with Santa. Douglas County Museum from 8 to 11 a.m.

101 Southline Rd. (Route 36 & Main Street) Tuscola, Illinois 61953 • (217) 253-9150

HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM SUNDAY: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 33

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CHESTERVILLE: DOUGLAS/MOULTRIE COUNTIES

A

Chesterville: Scenic Kaskaskia River, Food, Shopping In Amish Country

long the banks of the The new bridge was conKaskaskia River and in structed to replace an 115-yearthe middle of Amish setold iron bridge that was tlements, the charm of Chestercommonly known as the Chesterville greets visitors. In Chesville Bridge. Citizens around terville, which is midway beChesterville asked the county to tween Arcola and Arthur, visitors build the original structure over will discover an old-fashioned the Kaskaskia River to take admeat market, an outdoor furnishvantage of commercial opportuings business and a thriving nities from the Illinois Central restaurant that serves delicious Railroad. In those days, it was and bountiful meals. called the Kaskaskia River While most travelers pass Bridge. through Chesterville on Illinois In addition, travelers looking Route 133 bound for Arthur, Arfor a little adventure off the Jo’s Country Diner, cooking like your grandma. cola and other area destinations, beaten path can visit the small Chesterville’s new bridge, located just north of Illinois Route Chesterville Cemetery, located just outside the village over an an133, provides a picturesque view of the Kaskaskia River, which cient, one-lane bridge. In the cemetery is the mysterious witch’s feeds into Lake Shelbyville. The bridge offers photographers a grave. Local folklore has it the grave is that of a rebellious young front row seat for snapshots of colorful autumnal foliage and the woman who was thought to be a witch. At one point, she disapbeauty of an icy stream in winter. peared and was later found dead in a farmer’s field. Although

DAILY LUNCH BUFFET CALL US FOR YOUR CATERING NEEDS! • Weddings • Funerals • Reunions & More

426 E. SR 133 • Chesterville, IL Hours: Monday-Saturday 6:30 am - 2 pm

217-543-2457 or 217-259-4550 FIND US ON FACEBOOK! PAGE 34 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

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authorities ruled that she died 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 people from all over the countryside came to view the witch’s body. She was buried in the cemetery and a tree was planted on her grave so her spirit would be trapped in the tree.

As the tree grows directly from her grave, folklore says if the tree is cut down or destroyed, the ghost of the witch will leave her 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, the ghost is confined to the area around the grave.

Looking for a variety of quality outdoor furnishings to decorate a lawn, porch or patio? If so, then visit EMC Outdoor Furnishings on Illinois Route 133. EMC offers shoppers a complete line of concrete ornaments, and a selection of poly-

vinyl products in many different colors. Offerings include arbors, swings, glider chairs, stationary chairs, benches, end tables, picnic tables, lighthouses, windmills and many more.

Also located on Illinois Route 133, Jo’s Country Diner & Catering offers a daily lunch buffet and lunch specials.

EMC Outdoor Furnishings Located on Rt. 133 In Chesterville

(217) 543-2894 Poly Furniture In Many Sizes Colors & Styles Vinyl Play Sets • Vinyl Table Sets Arbors • Porch Swings • Outdoor Furniture Rockers and Gliders • Lighthouses • Bridges Garden Ornaments and Outdoor Decorations We Also Carry Inspirational Art Gifts and Home Decor.

Made From Recycled Milk Containers

2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 35

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CHARLESTON: COLES COUNTY

R

Charleston: Getaway Destination Home Of Lincoln Douglas Debate Museum, Doudna Fine Arts Center

ich in Lincoln history and full of family fun, Charleston is a spring even offers a chance to see bald eagles. great getaway destination all year long. Whether visiting for Charleston is home to Eastern Illinois University, which was pleasure or business, the city’s atmosphere is a perfect blend founded in 1895 as a teachers college. Today, the university’s campus of historic past, modern culture, and proboasts stunning architecture, beautiful gressive growth. Lincoln history is part landscaping, and excellent collegiate of Charleston’s charm. sports and fine arts performances.

Charleston was established as the The Doudna Fine Arts Center is EastColes County seat in the 1830s. The ern Illinois University’s architectural community grew with the arrival of the landmark. Designed by the internationrailroad system. In 1858, one of the ally famous architect Antoine Predock, seven debates between Senatorial candithe renovated and greatly expanded fadates Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. cility boasts several public arts venues: Douglas was held in Charleston. To comThe Theatre, which seats 300; the 150memorate this historic event, the comseat Black Box studio; the 600-seat Dvomunity of Charleston completed the rak Concert Hall; the 180-seat Recital Lincoln Douglas Debate Museum in Hall; the 150-seat Lecture Hall; and sev2000 at the Coles County Fairgrounds. eral corridor art galleries. The Doudna On the beautifully landscaped grounds Fine Arts Center houses EIU’s DepartChristmas at Lincoln Log Cabin of the Debate Museum, visitors can pose ments of Art, Music and Theatre Arts. for a photo with the life-sized bronze sculptures of the candidates, For more information, visit www.eiu.edu/doudna. watch a film that tells the story of the Charleston debate, explore interactive displays, and even try on Lincoln’s boots and hat.

Lincoln Log Cabin State Historical Site Another nature beauty in Charleston is Lake Charleston. With 10 Lincoln Log Cabin, operated by the Illinois Department of Natural miles of paved and unpaved trails that surround the lake, it is a perfect Resources, preserves the last home of Abraham Lincoln’s father and place to run, hike, or walk to enjoy the scenery it has to offer. Early stepmother, Thomas and Sarah Bush Lincoln. Although Abraham Lincoln was a resident of Springfield by the time his father purchased the farm in 1837, he remained in frequent contact with his father and extended family in Coles County. The site includes an accurate reproduction of the Lincolns’ two-room cabin that was constructed on the original cabin site in 1935 as a CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) and National Park Service project.

As an up-and-coming lawyer, Lincoln traveled the eighth judicial circuit, which brought him through Coles County regularly in the 1840s. During his stay, Lincoln, always concerned for the welfare of his parents, would often make the 8-mile trip south of Charleston for a visit. According to relatives, he regularly came bearing gifts including cash and notes due him for his legal services in Coles County.

One such gift was Abraham Lincoln’s purchase of 40 acres of his father’s farm, which he promptly deeded 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 where daily, between May and October, interpreters go about performing the multitude of tasks involved in maintaining a mid-19th-century farm. The interpreters represent Lincoln’s extended family and offer many insights on the man they know, not as president, but as a son, brother, cousin and favored uncle. A second farmstead, the Stephen Sargent Farm, has been moved to the site to help broaden visitors’ understanding of 1840s rural life in Illinois.

In addition to experiencing an in-depth look at life in the 1840s, on select weekends throughout the year, a variety of special events showcasing period arts, crafts and activities take place.

One mile north of Lincoln Log Cabin is the Moore Home State Historic Site, the scene of president-elect Lincoln’s poignant farewell to his family in January 1861, before leaving to assume the presidency.

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Today, Lincoln Log Cabin is an 86-acre historic site that is owned and operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. For more information about Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, call 217-345-1845, follow the site on Facebook or visit www.lincolnlogcabin.org.

2020 Charleston Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

May 1: Area 9 Special Olympics Spring Games. EIU O’Brian Stadium. For more information, contact Jackie Walk-Mendoza, jwalk@soill.org.

May 2: 18th Street Block Party. 18th Street in Charleston. For more information, contact Steve Runyon at Home Again Consignment, 217345-4700.

May 9: Eastern Illinois University Commencement. EIU Lantz Arena.

May 15, 16: IHSA Girls State Badminton Tournament. EIU Lantz Arena and SRC. For more information, visit the IHSA website.

May 11: Lake Land College Commencement.

May 16: Races For All Paces. EIU O’Brian Stadium. Half marathon, 10K, 5K walk/run, 1 mile, Toddler Trot, & Diaper Dash distances available. For more information, visit www.sarahbush.org/races.

May 21-23: IHSA Girls State Track Meet. EIU O’Brian Stadium.

For more information, visit the IHSA website.

May 28-30: IHSA Boys State Track Meet. EIU O’Brian Stadium.

For more information, visit the IHSA website.

May 28: Community Band Concert. Kiwanis Park Amphitheater from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. For more information, call 217-345-6897.

June-October: Charleston Farmer’s Market. Downtown Square every Wednesday through October from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m. Fresh produce, baked goods and music. For more information, call 217-3458018 at Roc’s Blackfront.

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Community Band Concert. Kiwanis Park Amphitheater from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. For more information, call 217-3456897.

June 6: Tour de Charleston. Downtown Courthouse Square. For more information, visit www.charlestonchamber.com.

June 6: MuseFest. Downtown Courthouse Square. Visit www.ctfillinois.org/news_events/musefest.html, for more information.

June 27: Coles County Truck Convoy to benefit Make-A-Wish Illinois. Coles County Fairgrounds. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/truckconvoy/.

June 28: Red, White, and Blue Days Bingo. Charleston VFW,

1821 20th St., from 2 to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.charlestonredwhiteandblue.com or call 217-345-7691 or email at charlestonrwb@gmail.com.

July 3, 4: Red, White, and Blue Days. Morton Park, Division and Lincoln Ave. For more information, visit www.charlestonredwhiteandblue.com or call 217-232-1485.

July 25-August 1: 164th Annual Coles County Fair. Coles County Fairgrounds. For more information, visit www.colescountyfair.com.

August 9: Annual Bluegrass Jam. Lincoln Log Cabin from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bluegrass and traditional music.

August 15: Run for the Fallen. For more information, contact Charleston Parks and Recreation at 217-345-6897.

September 19: Special Olympics Family Festival. For more information, visit www.consolidated.com/about-us/community-matters/special-olympics-family-festival.

September 27: Grill on the Hill. Trojan Hill and Charleston Middle School from 4 to 7 p.m. Block party.

September 26, 27: Harvest Frolic Fall Celebration. Lincoln Log Cabin from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Frolic 5K run and mile walk.

Experience 19th century life on the farm.

October 3: EIU Homecoming. EIU campus and Charleston community. For more information, visit www.eiu.edu/homecoming.

October 24: Torchlight Halloween Hike, Pumpkin Carving Contest, and Wiener Roast. Lincoln Log Cabin from 6 to 9 p.m.

October 31: Scare on the Square. Downtown Square. For more information, call the Charleston Chamber of Commerce at 217-345-7041.

November 7: EIU Family Weekend. EIU campus. For more information, visit www.eiu.edu/union/family_weekend_schedule.php.

November TBA: Yuletide Tunes & Treats. Dessert buffet, silent auction and music. Charleston Moose Lodge, 615 7th St. For more information, call 217-348-0430.

November TBA: Band Together for Kids. Charleston VFW. November 9: Girls on the Run 5K. EIU O’Brian Stadium. A noncompetitive 5K. Register online at www.girlsontheruneci.org or call 217-234-9494.

November 17, 18: Festival of Trees. Sarah Bush Lincoln. 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 5: Christmas in the Heart of Charleston. Courthouse Square. For more information, visit Facebook under “Christmas in the Heart of Charleston,” or call 217-348-0430.

December 5: Old Fashioned Christmas on the Prairie. Lincoln Log Cabin. Kids crafts, hot wassail and cookies. Walk to the Lincoln Farm, smell gingerbread baking, and listen to Christmas stories.

2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 37

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MATTOON: COLES COUNTY

M

Mattoon: Railroad, Baseball And Bagels Town A Must Visit

attoon takes a great deal of pride in being a “railroad town,” tracing its history to the mid-1800s, when railroaders constructed the Terre Haute and Alton Railroad.

One of the most treasured buildings in downtown Mattoon is the Mattoon Depot, the home of both an active Amtrak station, the Mattoon Tourism and Arts Office and the Coles County Historical Society. The restored depot is just one example of how Mattoon continues to grow and flourish, but retains its small town charm.

During the past decade, downtown Mattoon has experienced its own renaissance, including the new public Heritage Park, located across from the depot. Other examples of growth include murals, streetscapes and thriving businesses that are locating in the downtown area. A visit to downtown Mattoon should be on your list.

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 large outdoor swimming pool, playgrounds and picnic areas. For lovers of other outdoor activities, Mattoon’s two lakes, Lake Paradise and Lake Mattoon, pro-

PAGE 38 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

vide many forms of recreation, including fishing, boating, water skiing, sailing and camping.

Mattoon is famous for baseball. Nearly 2,000 baseball and softball enthusiasts participate in leagues in Mattoon, making it the self-proclaimed “Baseball Capital of the World.” In 2002, the city hosted the inaugural Cal Ripken World Series, a youth baseball The beautiful refurbished Mattoon depot.

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tournament established by the great former Baltimore Orioles shortstop.

The tournament featured visits by Ripken and many other well-known athletes, while teams from across the globe competed for the championship. Mattoon hosts thousands of youth athletes each year, not only for baseball, but also softball, soccer, basketball, football and golf.

Mattoon, also known for its hospitality and bagels, has many events each year including the annual Bagelfest each July. Murray Lender, of Lender’s Bagels, sparked an idea more than 30 years ago with a free bagel breakfast to introduce bagels to the city. Then 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 volunteers at the festival. In 1996, Mattoon’s own Lender’s bagel plant unveiled a 563pound bagel creation that had been baked in a specially-designed brick oven. The feat was recorded in the 1997 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records. This year will mark the 35th anniversary of the festival, and is sure to be a great celebration with food, music, carnival and community.

June 5-7: Lake Mattoon Sailing Assoc. Annual Riviera Regatta.

June 27: Coles County Truck Convoy for Make A Wish.

July 4: Independence Day Celebration. Fireworks at Coles County Airport.

July 14-18: 35th Annual Bagelfest Celebration. For more information, visit www.mattoonbagelfest.com.

July 16-19: Mattoon Bagelfest Softball Tournament.

August 29: Coles County Memorial Airport Airshow.

September 26, 27: Lincoln Log Cabin Harvest Frolic.

October 30: Celebrate Downtown Mattoon Trunk or Treat.

November 19: Mattoon Lightworks Walk Thru night.

November 20-December 27: Mattoon Lightworks. Peterson Park.

December 4: Celebrate Downtown Mattoon Christmas.

Run For The Bagel.

Hunan Specializes In Fine Asian Cuisine & Catering.

Since 1984 For Private Functions, Our Banquet Facility Seats 165 People And Is Perfect For Business Meetings & Family Gatherings Of Any Occasion

For more info or to sign up for the weekly event calendar, call 217-258-6286 or 800-500-6286, or visit www.mattoon.illinois.gov.

Mattoon’s Holiday Lightworks.

2020 Mattoon Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities. For a full and constantly updated list of Mattoon events, email tourism@mattoonillinois.org to sign up for an updated calendar of events to be emailed each week.

March: Mattoon Arts Council Annual Spring Arts Show.

May 9: Mattoon’s Gardenfest. Lytle Park. Formerly Herbfest.

May 15, 16: Mattoon Artworks. Downtown.

Open 6 Days Lunch & Dinner Sun-Mon-Wed-Thurs 11:00-9:00

217-234-4855

Fri & Sat 11:00-9:00

w w w.chine se huna n.c om 116 S. 17th St • Mattoon, IL 61938 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 39

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OAKLAND: COLES COUNTY

Oakland: Plenty To Do In A Small-Town Setting

njoy the experience of a visit to small town life in Oak- on opposite sides of a court trial.

Attend any one of the many events held throughout the year. land, IL, located just minutes east of Interstate 57 between Arcola and Paris on Route 133. Relax and Stop by and visit the kick-off to spring with the Easter Egg Hunt unwind on the village green, which marks the center of com- in April or visit the City-Wide Yard Sale, held during the first Saturday in May. munity activity.

Independence Pioneer Village will be open from Memorial Visitors will find a plethora of things to see and do, including Day to Labor Day, Friday and swimming at the Oakland pool Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and camping at one of the and by appointment. The Vilmany campsites in the area. lage is looking forward to the Drive north to visit the scenic 2020 season. Please check its area surrounding Walnut Point Facebook page or website for State Park, one of the most special events. For more inforvisited parks in Central Illimation, call 217-346-2016. nois. At the park, visitors can On June 27, enjoy a full day enjoy fishing, camping, boatof activities in Oakland. Fireing, and William’s Café, feaworks will be at dusk at the turing home-cooked food Oakland School Complex specials. Additional camping Join the Oakland Chamber is available at Hebron Hills for the annual Jonah Fish Fry Camping, located south of on July 11 at Oakland Lake Oakland, from May 15 to OcPark. All fathers and sons are tober 15. Call 217-346-3385 invited to attend the 26th Anfor additional information or a nual Father’s & Son’s weekbrochure. end October 15-18. This History buffs will want to four-day event encourages the visit the Landmarks Historic Dr. Rutherford’s home and office gives visitors a feel for what bond between fathers and sons Compound, which is the localife was like for a prairie doctor in the mid-1800s. through outdoor adventures at tion of Oakland’s first doctor’s home and office. Dr. Rutherford’s home and office gives visitors Walnut Point State Park. Visit www.fathersoncamp.org or check a feel for what life was like for a prairie doctor in the mid-1800s. out its Facebook page for more details. On November 7, plan Dr. Rutherford was Oakland’s connection to President Abraham to attend the Methodist Women’s Soup Supper and Silent AucLincoln, the 16th president. Dr. Rutherford and Lincoln were tion at the Oakland Methodist Church on Washington Street from 4 to 7 p.m. Visitors will be able to purchase frozen homemade soups and frozen homemade pies that night and throughout the year.

Santa arrives in Oakland on December 5, 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

Are you looking for a place to call home?

We offer a family-friendly community with safe streets and small-town charm.

We offer a local swimming pool, city parks, medical health clinic, K-12 school and shopping.

Oakland also offers historic sites like the Rutherford Home, recreation and camping at Walnut Point State Park, and a Memorial Library.

For details, write to: Oakland Chamber, P.O. Box 283, Oakland, IL 61943 PAGE 40 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

HEBRON HILLS CAMPING ✫ Fishing ✫ Camping ✫ Swimming

✫ Relaxing ✫ All sites in the shade

May 15 - October 15

✫ Cabins ✫ Seasonal sites ✫ Full hookup sites ✫ Primitive tent sites

217-346-3385 Reservations Required 14349 N. County Rd. 2350 E. Oakland, IL 61943 James & Dawn Cooper, owners

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P

PARIS: EDGAR COUNTY Paris: A Beautiful, Thriving Community

aris, IL, is a thriving and beautiful community. Visitors are invited to enjoy its beautiful lakes, parks, historical homes, the Edgar County Courthouse, the Historical Museum, the Link Art Gallery, and its tree-lined streets of Victorian homes.

Paris has much to offer visitors. The city is proud of its growth, with many industries and businesses showing all-time record production. Paris is a great place to visit, to live, and to call “home.”

from lumber, building supplies, windows, doors to farm machinery, furniture, carpet, floor tile, paint, groceries and private and commercial insurance services.

Those who love the outdoors and like a challenge may want to visit the first-rate sporting clays facility, The Olde Barn Sporting Clays, east of town on Route 133 and try their hand at shooting sporting clays. Visitors will find it the best in the area.

Visit Oakland, where there is always something to see or do.

Penn Central Depot

2020 Oakland Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Please call 217-346-2125 for specific information and additional activities.

April 11: Pancake Breakfast and Auction. Lake Crest School All Purpose Room.

April 11: Easter Egg Hunt and Chalk Art. Oakland Square.

May 2: City-Wide Yard Sale. Oakland and Hindsboro.

May 3: Little Miss, Jr. Miss & Miss Oakland Pageant.

Oakland High School gym at 6 p.m.

Memorial Day through Labor Day: Independence Pioneer Village is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. For special events or more information, call 217-346-2016.

June 27: July 4th festivities at Oakland School Complex, Miller Park. All day. Parade at 2 p.m. Oakland Fireworks at at dusk.

July 11: Chamber of Commerce Annual Jonah Fish Fry Fundraiser. Oakland Lake Park from 4 to 7 p.m.

August 29: City-Wide Fall Garage Sale. Oakland and Hindsboro.

September 13: Ice Cream Social. Helen’s Park gazebo.

October: 15-18: 26th Annual Father’s & Son’s weekend.

Walnut Point State Park. For more information, visit www.fathersoncamp.org.

October 31: Halloween Party/Costume Contest. Lake Crest School All Purpose Room.

November 7: Oakland United Methodist Women’s Annual Soup Supper and Silent Auction. From 4 to 7 p.m. at 13 East Washington Street.

December 5: Breakfast with Santa. Lake Crest School All Purpose Room.

2020 Paris Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

April 3: The Great Dubois. A fast-paced, high energy circus show for all ages, showcasing feats of juggling, hula hoops, unicycle, aerial, circus stunts, contortion, magic and audience interaction, all wrapped up in a blanket of comedy. Paris Center of Fine Arts at 7 p.m.

April 4: Taste of Edgar County. Eveland Gym at old High School.

June 6: Farmers Market. Each Saturday & Thursday, June through September.

June 6, 7: Shrine Barbeque and Parade. Edgar County Fairgrounds. Parade at 1 p.m.

June 13: Eiffel Tower Triathlon. Twin Lakes Park at 6 a.m.

June 27: 4-H Barbeque. Edgar County Fairgrounds from 4 to 7 p.m.

July 4: Fourth of July fireworks. Twin Lakes Park at dusk.

July 10-12: KCBS Harvest on Fire. Castle Finn Winery from noon to 8:30 p.m.

July 17-22: 4-H Fair. Edgar County Fairgrounds.

July 19-25: Edgar County Fair. Edgar County Fairgrounds.

September 25-27: Honeybee Festival. Downtown on the square.

October 31: Scare on the Square (trick or treating).

November 28: Christmas In Paris.

Lori’s Pins ‘n Needles “Quilters’ Headquarters” Just 30 minutes from Arcola

Over 3000 Bolts of Fabric Books • Patterns • Classes ––––––––––––––––––

Authorized Husqvarna Viking, Baby Lock, & Handi Quilter Sewing Machines Sales & Service

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

MON - THURS 9 am — 6 pm

Email: loris@comwares.net www.lorispinsnneedles.com

SATURDAY 9 am — 5 pm

FRIDAY 9 am — 8 pm

2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 41

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GREENUP: CUMBERLAND COUNTY

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Greenup: A Step Back In Time In The Charming ‘Village Of Porches’

reenup, IL, is an opportunity to step back in time and experience a simpler way of life, while never leaving the amenities to which we have become accustomed. Platted by William C. Greenup in 1834, while he served in a supervisory capacity on the National Road, Greenup has a rich and interesting history. Residents and visitors alike can appreciate Greenup for its numerous elements of charm.

The village of Greenup is a small community of just over 1,500 residents, located along Interstate 70 and at the junction of Illinois Route 130 and Illinois Route 121. The This 200-foot-span covered bridge is located on the National Road west of Greenup.

National Road, U.S. Route 40, runs through the southern edge of Greenup as well, providing another the Lincoln’s after they moved to Illinois, as well as the Thomas source of tourism and transportation. Greenup is strategically lo- Lincoln Cemetery, the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln’s facated 23 miles east of Effingham, IL, 25 miles southeast of Mat- ther and stepmother.

For those looking to make an extended trip of their visit to toon, IL, and 16 miles south of Charleston, IL, providing residents with numerous options for dining, entertainment and employment, Greenup, there are options from which to choose. Greenup has two all within a short commute. That is not to say that Greenup doesn’t motels as well as a new bed and breakfast in a restored historical have an impressive offering of these services itself, particularly building along the National Road. During that extended stay, visitors may also want to visit our two local museums or take in one of given its size.

Greenup boasts a local winery, numerous antique stores, a state- the two local parks. Whatever your reason for visiting, Greenup has of-the-art Love’s Travel Center, several restaurants and many your needs and your comfort covered. small shops to frequent. The locals appreciate that they have their For more information about Greenup, visit own grocery store, and various convenience options should they www.villageofgreenup.com or call 217-923-3401. not want to travel. The largest employer in Greenup is by far Evapco, employing more than 400 skilled workers, building high 2020 Greenup Calendar of Events end industrial AC and refrigeration units that are utilized around Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for the world. specific information and additional activities.

Within the village proper, Greenup has eight restaurants to provide a variety of choices. After dinner, residents or visitors can January through December: Hootenanny. Free entertainment treat themselves to a unique downtown experience with the view of the storefronts, which provide Greenup its title, “The Village first Saturday of the month at 7 p.m. Greenup Municipal Building.

August 15-22: Cumberland County Fair. Thoroughbred & harof Porches.” The porches have a style that would be perhaps as much at home in 1880s New Orleans as a rural community in Illi- ness horse races, queen contest, tractor pulls, 4-H shows, musical nois. The porches also give visitors an enjoyable look at the entertainment, carnival for kids and demolition derby. For more information, visit www.cumberlandcountyfair.com. beauty of historic architecture in the area.

September 23-26: Chamber of Commerce Fall Festival. Queen For those interested in seeing beautiful architecture up close, Greenup is also home to a modern covered bridge, built in 2000 contest, crafts, city-wide rummage sales, car show, parade, food and boasting no weight restriction on its use. The Greenup covered vendors, beer tent, musical entertainment and kid entertainment. bridge has an observation deck as well as a nature trail along the For more information, email greenupchamber@gmail.com.

October 24: Halloween Celebration. Greenup Municipal Buildbanks of the Embarrass River. History lovers will enjoy that the original covered bridge that had occupied the site, used timbers laid ing. Time TBD. Costume judging, cake walk, food and games.

December 4: Greenup Chamber of Commerce Visit with Santa

by Abe and Thomas Lincoln. Of course, being the “land of Lincoln,” the ties to the Lincoln family don’t end with the bridge. at 6 p.m. Pictures, treat bags, vendor market and kids’ crafts. For Greenup is just south of the famed “Lincoln Log Cabin,” home to more information, email greenupchamber@gmail.com.

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Duska Cornwell

Come to Greenup for a fun-filled weekend and experience small town charm.

Greenup is rich in history, antiques, crafts, shopping and food.

Max McCullough

Overhanging Porches of Greenup

Kathy Perkins Max McCullough

Cumberland County Covered Bridge

1870’s Depot

Greenup is also located in the heart of Lincoln territory. Several locations are marked with “Abraham Lincoln Visited Here.” Lincoln Log Cabin and Fox Ridge State Park are located in Coles County just 12 to 14 miles north of Greenup. Greenup is beautiful throughout the year.

In the Spring, blooming red bud trees line Cumberland Street, the summer months find a variety of flowers in bloom on each corner. The fall foliage is gorgeous and during the Christmas Season the overhanging porches are decked with greenery and lights.

Max McCullough

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

Greenup Military Museum

Dates of events are subject to change.

Please call ahead for specific information.

January through December: Hootenanny

G

reenup is a village of 1,532 residents. Its architecture is lost in time. The business district is listed on the National Registry of Historic Buildings. Many of the store fronts have over-hanging porches from their second story. Some think these porches suggest the look of a western town, and others see a New Orleans flair. The main street or Cumberland Street is also a part of the National Road. Greenup has the distinction of having one of the longest continuous driveable sections of the National 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-styled” covered bridge. History continues to be preserved in Greenup with the 1870’s Depot and Johnson Building; both are restored and were relocated along Cumberland Street.

Greenup 2020 Calendar Of Events

For more information, visit www.villageofgreenup.com.

Free entertainment 1st Saturday of the month at 7 p.m.

Greenup Municipal Building.

August 15 –22: Cumberland County Fair Thoroughbred & harness horse races, queen contest, tractor pulls, 4-H shows, musical entertainment, carnival for kids, demolition derby.

Visit: www.cumberlandcountyfair.com

September 23-26: Greenup Chamber of Commerce Fall Festival Queen contest, crafts, city-wide rummage sales, car show, parade, food vendors, beer tent, music, kid entertainment and fun. greenupchamber@gmail.com

October 24: Halloween Celebration Greenup Municipal Building.

Time TBD. Costume judging, cake walk, food & games.

December 4: Greenup Chamber of Commerce Visit with Santa 6:00 p.m. Pictures and treat bags. greenupchamber@gmail.com

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MARSHALL: CLARK COUNTY

Marshall: Thru The Years With Pride — Historical Sites, Murals, Lions At Every Turn

xperience Marshall — as you step out of a car in downtown Marshall, you will love the quaintness from the beautiful landscaping, large flower pots and Old Glory flying from every light post. At every turn, visitors will find a Walldog mural or a custom lion statue to view. You can visit the first hotel in Illinois, the Archer House, and the hotel that Abraham Lincoln stayed during his court days in Clark County. A once-in-a-lifetime experience is viewing the World’s Largest Gavel outside the Clark County Courthouse.

Explore historic Harlan Hall to view real-life mannequins and displays, and pick up a copy of Tour Historic Marshall and Marshall International Walldog Murals and Lions (which contains information on 26 murals and 41 lions around the community), as well as parks/recreation information, upcoming events, and much more.

Clark County Courthouse

Marshall has seven sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A few of these include Lincoln’s law papers at the courthouse; a stone arch bridge, constructed in 1831, on the National Road (U.S. 40) that is still in use today; and a 1938 Works Progress Administration mural in the post office.

Harlan Hall, located in the heart of downtown, is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to The National Road Welcome Center. It is located in the heart of downtown.

The Welcome Center houses memorabilia from “the road 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, reunions and corporate trainings. Visitors won’t want to miss seeing the beauty of this restored building. In addition, the Marshall Public Library celebrated its 100th birthday in 2016.

World’s Largest Gavel

Walldog mural PAGE 44 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

Walldog mural

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If it is outdoor recreation you’re looking for, Marshall has an abundance of options. Lincoln Trail State Park and Mill Creek Park bring in thousands of visitors each year, and for good reason. These parks offer camping amenities, fishing and walking trails. Mill Creek also offers ATV trails, horseback riding trails and cabin rentals. Both parks retain natural 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 performing municipal band in the state. Walk around the community and enjoy each mural, while trying to find the hidden item in each one, and get a picture taken with a unique lion. Other recreational opportunities available in Marshall include nine holes at the Marshall Golf Course or, in the case of a rainy day, stop into the Marshall Bowling Alley.

From the history buff to the outdoor enthusiast, Marshall has an experience waiting just for you.

For more information, visit www.marshall-il.com or call 217-826-8087.

2020 Marshall Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change.

Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

www.marshall-il.com

THRU THE YEARS WITH PRIDE

May 9: Community-wide Yard Sale.

May 25: Community Pool Opening Day. June 5: First Band Concert. Every Friday, 8 p.m., until August.

June 6: Fit Foodie Tri. Sprint Triathlon, 5k and food trucks.

June 19-21: Vintage Camper Rally at Lincoln Trail State Park.

July 10-12: Castle Finn Winery KC BBQ contest.

September 18-20: Marshall Autumn Fest.

October 10: Lincoln Trail State Park Frolic.

October 31: Frolic/ Trunk or Treat.

December 5: Holly Days.

WORLD’S LARGEST GAVEL

HISTORIC LANDMARKS

HISTORIC MURALS

GOLFING

FESTIVALS

LION STATUES

BOWLING

BOATING/CAMPING/FISHING/HUNTING

2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 45

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C

CASEY: CLARK COUNTY

Casey: See The World’s 8 Largest Items And Enjoy The Popcorn Festival

asey was first settled as a result of the completion of the National Trail (U.S. 40) and, a new north/south road (now Illinois Route 49) through Clark County. In 1853, the post office and the community were named after the Honorable Zadoc Casey, who, at the time, was serving part of five consecutive terms as an Illinois U.S. Senator.

At the turn of the 20th century, the discovery of oil made Casey a boomtown, and the instant prosperity affected every part of local life. Shortly after the first oil well was drilled in Pennsylvania in 1857, Clark County began its experiments with oil drilling. However, it wasn’t until techniques and tools improved by the early 1900s that the boom was fully realized.

By 1907, 2,000 wells had been drilled in a 9,000-acre area between Casey and Westfield, IL, filling 24 million barrels in a single year. The oil boom brought much wealth to the community of Casey and whether it is in the fields or in the architecture, its lasting effects can still be seen as visitors explore around town to see the most recent attractions — The World’s 8 Largest Items — with a ninth on the way.

Meanwhile, the city’s Fairview Park features sunken and memorial gardens, ball diamonds, horseshoe pitching area, picnic shelters, a bandstand and ponds stocked for fishing.

Guinness World Record The campground has electrical and water hookups, a bathlargest golf tee. house and fire pits.

Popcorn Festival Casey’s 33rd Annual Popcorn Festival is scheduled for Labor Day weekend, at Fairview Park. The event features live bands, family entertainment shows, car show, arts and crafts, food booths, Jonah Fish Fry, chainsaw carvers, and, of course, free popcorn. Visit www.popcornfestival.net for the 2020 schedule.

2020 Casey Calendar of Events All events are subject to change. Please call The city of Casey Economic Development office (217-330-5507) to confirm event times & dates or check out the respective organizations’ Facebook pages for more information.

SEPTEMBER 5-7, 2020

F Popree cor n

Casey Fairview Park • LIVE

BANDS

• FAMILY

ENTERTAINMENT SHOWS

• CAR

SHOW

• KID

CARNIVAL

• Arts

and Crafts

• Food

Booths

• Jonah

Fish Fry

• Chainsaw

Carvers

217.232.2676

www.popcornfestival.net bernardmorgan@mchsi.com

PAGE 46 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

April 4: Comedian Rickie Glore. Must be 21. Casey CC. April 16: Chamber of Commerce Dinner. Richards Farm.

May 15, June 19, July 10, Aug. 21: Casey Saddle Club, Friday Night Light Series. 6:30 p.m. at FPA. May 16, June 20, July 11, August 22: Casey Saddle Club Speed Show. 10 a.m. FPA. Every Friday from June 5 to Aug. 21: Casey In Action’s Casey Market Thyme. 7:30 a.m. Downtown. Vendors contact caseymarketthyme@gmail.com, for more information.

June 19, 20: Crazy Casey Days. Downtown Casey.

July 4: 4th of July Parade, Celebration. Fairview Park.

July 24-26: Casey Country Club Open Golf Tournament.

July 24, Aug. 22, Sept. 26: Casey CC, Live at the Tee music series 7 to 10 p.m. Food Truck, 5 to 8 p.m. 217-932-2030.

Labor Day Weekend: Popcorn Festival. Fairview Park.

September 5: Casey In Action KZ5K, Annual 3.1 Mile chiptimed race through downtown Casey.

October 31: Casey C of C Fall Frolic. Downtown Casey November 28: Small Business Saturday.

Every Evening in December: Christmas in the Park, Lights at Fairview Park.

December 4, 5: 6th Annual Candy Canes on Main, Downtown.

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T

BEMENT: PIATT COUNTY

Bement: Visit Lincoln History Sites, Country Opry, Picnic In Veterans Memorial Park

he Village of Bement, situated in the heart of Illinois between Champaign and Decatur, owes its birth to the steel plow and the spread of railroading in the Midwest. The John Deere plow allowed farmers to churn the fertile soil near Bement at a time when tall prairie grasses hampered traditional tilling.

On Christmas Day, 1853, three men on horseback, L.B. Wing, Joseph Bodman and Henry Little, rode through the area. Inspired by what they saw, the three returned in 1854 to purchase as much land as they could afford, paying $1.25 an acre. The gentlemen worked closely with representatives of the Great We have a show with special guests every first and every third Friday each month. Local civic Western Railroad to bring a railgroups provide a meal at an additional cost. way linking Danville, IL, with Quincy, IL, through 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 Bryant Cottage State Historic Site @bementcountryopry on Facebook Great Western Railroad, offered www.bementcountryopry.com to donate a bell to the first church built in the area if the villagers agreed to choose “Bement” as its name. Mr. Bement fell ill and died before he could follow through with his offer. One hundred years later, however, in 1955, during the town’s centennial celebration, the Wabash Railroad, which inherited the lines of the Great Western A GOOD PLACE TO CALL HOME Railroad, presented the Village of Bement with a bell from a retired locomotive. The bell is displayed in the foyer of the Bement 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 tables and a memorial dedicated to area veterans.

Directly south of the park are two historic houses. The first is Ê Ê Ê the home of Francis E. Bryant, built in 1880, and the other is the single-story structure built for Bryant and his family upon their May 7: Grades 4 and 5 Concerts – at 6 p.m.

1856 arrival in Bement. Although the 1880 structure, known as the Bryant House, remains a private residence, people are invited Art Show – at 6:30 p.m. inside for a visit, at the owner’s convenience.

Grades 6-12 Concerts – at 7 p.m.

The 1856 structure is now called the Bryant Cottage State Historic Site. This home has been preserved to commemorate a June 12-13: Bement Garage Sale Days

B E M E N T

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS BEMENT - 2020

Bement Continued On Page 74

2020 Bement Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. For specific details and additional activities, email bementchamber@bement.com.

May 7: Grades 4 and 5 Concerts at 6 p.m., Art Show at 6:30 p.m. and Middle School Concert at 7 p.m.

June 12, 13: Bement Garage Sale Days.

June 20: Bement Cleanup Day. December 12: Christmas Parade.

June 20: Bement Cleanup Day December 12: Christmas Parade FOLLOW THE PATH OF INFORMATION ON THE GROUNDS OF BRYANT COTTAGE HISTORIC SITE Visit Us Soon!

Call 217-678-8184 for more information.

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MONTICELLO: PIATT COUNTY

Monticello: Historic Architecture, One Of The ‘7 Wonders Of Illinois’ Grace The City

onticello, the Piatt County boards each telling a part of the Lincoln seat, offers a breath of fresh Monticello story are located in the air with a town square built downtown Rotary Park, at the downaround a refurbished courthouse in an town Wabash Depot, and at the Railway area that invites guests to slow down and Museum. relax. The downtown has been listed on The unique charm of nearby Allerton the National Register of Historic Places.

Park, an extensively landscaped park Monticello has the added distinction of mixed with ornaments, fine art and a having two of its residential areas listed manor house modeled after Ham House on the National Register of Historic in England, provides visitors with a The Monticello Railway Museum is an Places. North State Street and South grand tourist destination. The park was all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization.

Charter Street each feature homes with donated to the University of Illinois for a wide array of architectural styles. These designations were received public use in 1946 by Robert Allerton, the son of a well-established after much work by Monticello’s Preservation Commission. banker and livestock baron.

On and off the square, downtown Monticello’s one-of-a-kind shops, The park is open to the public daily until sunset. The park can be engalleries and restaurants provide a diverse array of things to do and see. tered from town on its south side or from the north. Formal gardens Visitors will want to stop at Out of The Blue for the largest selection and more than 100 sculptures are located near the mansion. Allerton of Polish pottery and gifts and enjoy its new location at 223 E. LivHouse is used as a retreat center and is the perfect place for a wedding ingston Street. If you are lucky, when you visit Prairie Fire Glass at or conference. The main facade of the 40-room Georgian mansion over217 W. Washington Street, you will get to see a new hand-blown crelooks a reflecting pool and meadow. The native forest, a 50-acre reation being made. Swing by one of the many local eateries for lunch or stored prairie, Lost Garden (a wilderness garden) and 1,500 acres of a sweet treat while you are there. woodland, following the Sangamon River with numerous hiking trails, Monticello is a “Looking for Lincoln” community. Lincoln storymake the park a great attraction.

Ride Vintage Trains Every Saturday & Sunday - May 2 thru October 4 Enjoy a train ride through gently rolling Illinois countryside.

Charter our Business or Dining Cars for Your Group Desserts, Sandwich Buffet or Complete Meals.

• Picnic Grove • Steam trains one weekend each month • Special Mothers and Fathers Day Trains • Railroad Days in September • Gift shop • Exhibit Cars " A "Looking For Lincoln Destination

I-72 At Exit No. 166

Monticello, IL

Visit our webpage at MRYM.org for complete fares and schedules

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Preserving R.R. History For Over 50 Years

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The Allerton forest supports an extensive animal population. Bird species unusual to the area can be seen in the forest, and the migratory bird population is impressive in the spring and fall. Allerton Park and Retreat Center is one of the “7 Wonders of Illinois.” The park holds many educational and music events throughout the year. For an upcoming events lists, visit www.allerton.illinois.edu/events_archive/.

The Monticello Railway Museum, an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization, is also a popular tourist attraction. The museum is located just north of Monticello at exit 166 off Interstate 72. Since the museum’s founding in 1966, one of its goals has been to preserve and restore the nation’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 museum grounds or the historic Wabash Depot in downtown Monticello for a round-trip train ride. The museum is open weekends, May through October. For 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 the north-south line through Monticello. Later in the decade, Jay Gould, known as one of the famous “Robber Barons,” purchased the line. Gould lost control of the Wabash in the late 1880s, and the subsequent owners found much financial success. A new station was planned for Monticello and built 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 a bygone era in railroading.

Along with Allerton Park, the community features Nick’s Community Playground near the downtown area, and Lodge Park, which is a 500acre park north of Monticello. Lodge Park offers camping, hiking and biking and serves as the site of the annual Independence Day celebration on July 3.

2020 Monticello Calendar of Events Visit www.monticellochamber.org for more information on all events. Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific info and additional activities.

April 17: Allerton Trails: Half-Marathon, 10K, & Trail-Glo 5K. April 18: Allerton Third Saturday Garden Tours.

April 25: Throttle Time. Monticello Railway Museum.

April 24-26: Doubt. Monticello Theatre Association.

April 26: Forest to Mansion Dinner. Allerton Park.

May 1: Whites of Spring. White wine sampling and boutique shopping.

Downtown Monticello.

May 1-3: Allerton Annual Plant Sale Fundraiser.

May 1-3: Doubt. Monticello Theatre Association.

May 1, 2: FFA Plant Sale.

May 3: Diesel Engine Day. Monticello Railway Museum.

Every Saturday & Sunday, May 2 - October 4: Weekend Train Rides.

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Monticello Railway Museum.

May 3: Market on Main. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Downtown Monticello.

May 5: School Days. Monticello Railway Museum.

May 8: Business Expo. Chamber of Commerce.

May 8, 9: FFA Plant Sale.

May 9: Kirby Derby. 5K run/walk and a 10K run, along with a free kids race. Forest Preserve Park.

May 9, 10: Mom’s Ride Free. Monticello Railway Museum.

May 13: School Days. Monticello Railway Museum.

Every 3rd Saturday May–October: Garden Tours. Allerton Park.

May 16, 17: May Steam Weekend. Railway Museum.

May 25: Monticello Family Aquatic Center opens for the season.

May 31: Diesel Engine Day. Monticello Railway Museum.

June 5: Love for ALLerton. Allerton Park.

June 7: Diesel Engine Day. Monticello Railway Museum.

Every Thursday Afternoon June 11-Oct 1: Farmers Market in Afternoons. Downtown Monticello.

June 12-14: Horizon Hobby RC Fest. Eli Field.

June 20, 21: Dads Ride Free. Monticello Railway Museum.

June 25-27: Piatt County Trail Blazers Rodeo. 7 to 10 p.m. each night.

June 27: Rodeo Parade. Downtown Monticello.

June 27: Kids and Clowns. Noon. Rick Ridings Ford.

June 13, 14: June Steam Weekend. Railway Museum.

July 3: Monticello Freedom Fest. Lodge Park.

July 3: Fireworks Train. Monticello Railway Museum.

July 10: Red, White and the Blues. Allerton Park.

July 18: 3rd Saturday Garden Tours. Allerton Park.

July 18, 19: July Steam Weekend. Railway Museum.

July 31-Aug 2: Schoolhouse Rock. Monticello Theatre Association.

August 1: Monticello BBQ Festival. Downtown Monticello.

August 6-8: Illini Super Jets. Eli Field.

August 7: Irish Fest. Allerton Park.

August 7-9: Schoolhouse Rock. Monticello Theatre Association.

August 14, 15: Apple Dumpling Festival. Atwood.

August 15: 3rd Saturday Garden Tours. Allerton Park.

August 15, 16: August Steam Weekend. Railway Museum.

August 21-23: Mansfield Homecoming. Mansfield.

August 29: Prairie Sky Festival. Allerton Park.

September 19: 3rd Saturday Garden Tours. Allerton Park.

September 19: Monticellobration. Downtown Monticello.

September 19, 20: Railroad Days. Railway Museum.

October TBA: The Last Séance. Monticello Theatre Association.

October 3, 4: October Steam Weekend. Final weekend. Railway Museum.

October 9-11: Music Barn Festival. Allerton Park.

October 10: Fall Throttle Time. Railway Museum.

October 17: 3rd Saturday Garden Tours. Allerton Park.

October 25: Boutique Bash. Monticello Shopping Event. Downtown.

October 29, 30: An Evening with Poe. Allerton House.

October 31: Allerton Halloween Costume Party. Allerton House.

November 20-23: Polar Express. Tentative. Railway Museum.

November 27-29: Polar Express. Tentative. Railway Museum.

November 27: Reds of Christmas. A wine-walk and shop event. Downtown Monticello.

November 29: Movie in the Mansion. Allerton House.

December TBA: Christmas Show. Monticello Theatre Association.

December 1: Kirby Winter Wellness Walk. Allerton Park.

December 4-6: Polar Express. Tentative. Monticello Railway Museum.

December 5, 6: Lunch with Santa on the Train. Railway Museum.

December: 6: Christmas Parade.

December 11-13: Polar Express. Tentative. Railway Museum.

December 11-13: Holiday Showcase. Allerton House.

December 12: Holiday Affair. Allerton House.

December 20: Sweets with Santa. Allerton House.

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CLINTON: DEWITT COUNTY

Clinton: Steeped In Lincoln, Railroad History

tury and early 20th century era, can be found near Mr. Linrom its unique annual Apple ’n’ Pork Festival to the lifecoln’s Square in the heart of Clinton. sized statue of Abraham Lincoln standing in its downDuring a visit to Clinton, a stop at the historic downtown town known as “Mr. Lincoln’s Square,” Clinton is a Mr. Lincoln’s Square is well worth the time. On the northclassic Midwestern town. Founded by Jesse Fell and James west corner of the square stands Allen, a pair of land speculaa statue of Abraham Lincoln. tors, Clinton was one of a According to local lore, it was myriad of prairie towns platon Mr. Lincoln’s Square where ted and sold by the acre in the he said, “You can fool all of the mid-1830s. people part of the time, and part Progress was slow at first. of the people all of the time, but In 1837, Clinton was no more you cannot fool all the people than two log homes and a log all the time.” stable. By 1841, it had grown Located in the Abraham Linto provide a small settlement coln National Heritage Area, for about 12 families. As DeWitt County is an official Clinton began to blossom, “Looking for Lincoln” commuDeWitt County enjoyed its nity, and is home to 10 Looking early 1800s heyday as a stopfor Lincoln wayside exhibits. ping point along the Eighth Eight of these are included on a Judicial Circuit. Now-famous self-guided walking tour spanlawyers and judges frening nine blocks and featuring quented Clinton, which is the unique Lincoln-related stories county seat of DeWitt and sites. A permanent exhibit, County. Among them were Abraham Lincoln, Stephen “Lincoln in DeWitt County,” is Douglas, Clifton H. Moore housed at Clinton’s Vespasian and David Davis, all who left Warner Public Library. Visit their mark on the community the Lincoln Heritage of DeWitt and provided fascinating County website at www.linmemories for the city’s early colnheritage.wix.com/deresidents. wittcounty.

As significant as the presThe C.H. Moore Homestead ence of these luminous figures DeWitt County Museum conwere, it pales in comparison to tinues to be one of Clinton’s the influence of the Illinois links to the life of Abraham LinStatue of Abraham Lincoln gracing Mr. Lincoln’s Square.

Central Railroad on the hiscoln. The mid-Victorian mansion tory of Clinton. The first locowas the home of one of DeWitt motive chugged into town in the 1850s and transformed the County’s most prominent citizens, Clifton H. Moore. Abraham community, both economically and socially. By the end of Lincoln became friends with Clifton H. Moore when he was the 1850s, Clinton had evolved from a rustic frontier town to riding the Eighth Judicial Circuit through DeWitt County. a thriving community with a business district second to none They were law associates, working together on many cases, in its time and place. The transformation became complete in and opposing each other on many others. The museum is the 1870s, when the Illinois Central’s shops and roundhouse open for tours April 1 through December 31. While visiting moved into Clinton from Amboy and Wapella. For the next the museum, be sure to get your very own Abraham Lincoln 80 years, Clinton was known as a railroad town, and was the National Heritage Area NPS Passport Stamp for Clinton, IL. hub of railroad operations in central Illinois.

The C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum is By 1920, more than 1,500 Clinton residents worked for home to the annual Apple ’n’ Pork Festival, always held on the railroad, which brought 11 passenger trains through the the last full weekend in September. For more information, town each day of the week. In addition, the Clinton railroad visit www.chmoorehomestead.org. yards handled more than 107,000 freight cars each month.

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to this fact. Art, history and agriculture come together in The Barn Quilts of DeWitt County driving tour. Individuals are encouraged to drive the selfguided tour route. Find out more about Barn Quilts of DeWitt County on Facebook.

Many visitors come to the area for the pleasure of outdoor activities.

Clinton Lake, located six miles east of Clinton, belongs to Exelon, which operates the Clinton Power Station at this location. The state of Illinois has managed the park since 1978 through a long-term lease with the state-owned, 442-acre park, offering recreational opportunities utility company. The partnership demonstrates that state govduring all seasons. ernment and private businesses can work together to provide Weldon Springs State Park provides 75 camper sites and outstanding recreation. some additional sites for tent camping. The park also includes The 15,000-acre area includes 130 miles of shoreline that a 29-acre lake stocked with bass, bluegill, crappie, channel cattrace Clinton Lake’s 4,900 acres. The lake includes a beautiful fish, flathead catfish, sunfish and bullhead. The lake’s two 1,000-square-foot swimming beach, more than 300 campsites, miles of shoreline is dotted with bank fishing platforms. Sevseveral boat and canoe launching points, a marina, and numereral amphitheaters in the park provide a wonderful setting for ous hiking trails and picnic sites. Anglers frequently visit the a host of outdoor events. For more information, contact Wellake to reel in some of its stock of striped bass, crappie, don Springs State Park at 217-935-2644. stripers, catfish and walleye. Clinton Lake is well known for Weldon Springs is home to many lake-friendly fishing the Veterans Point Memorial, tournaments.

Waterskiing, which was dedicated in 2004. tubing and wakeboarding are Donations made in honor of also popular summertime veterans are recognized in varsports at the lake. Hunters find ious spaces on the granite recreational opportunities in structure. Inscribed on the more than 3,000 acres of land base of the sculpture are the around Clinton Lake. Species words, “Freedom is not free.” hunted in this area include The memorial sits on a 4-footdeer, turkey, rabbit and pheashigh granite pedestal in the ant. For more information, middle of a patio. The plaque contact Clinton Lake State on the sculpture pedestal Recreation Area at 217-935reads, “Dedicated to the mem8722.

Visitors are always welcome in Clinton. ory and honor of all veterans For a second dose of outdoor who have served, are serving, and will serve this great country enjoyment, visitors can travel two miles southeast of Clinton for the cause of freedom.” to Weldon Springs State Park. Early in Clinton’s history, the Clinton uses a mayor/council form of government. For more site was a 40-acre estate owned by Judge Lawrence Weldon. information, visit www.clintonillinois.com. For economic deHe opened the land to friends, associates, relatives and Clinton velopment, the county-wide organization, DeWitt County Deresidents for picnics, family outings and other recreational acvelopment Council, actively works to stimulate economic tivities. Since that time, the land has seen many uses. It served development with new and existing businesses in DeWitt as the site of a popular education and entertainment program County. For more information, visit www.dcdc-illinois.net. known as a Chautauqua, an open recreation space used by the An excellent public school system serves the Clinton area public, and served as a city park before finally becoming a PAGE 52 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

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with neighborhood school buildings, located only a short walk from homes. A school campus housing the Clinton Elementary School, Junior High School, High School, as well as the Maroons Sports Complex is located near Van Buren Street shopping and restaurants. An addition to the educational campus is the Richland Community College Clinton Education Center. The expansion of the extension center is part of Richland’s continued commitment to serve the students in Clinton and DeWitt County.

The Vespasian Warner Public Library is located in the heart of Clinton. The Frank Lloyd Wright prairie-style brick building was built in 1906. In 1991, an addition was built to the original library building. Through the years, the facility continues to provide the community with informational, recreational, cultural and educational resources and services, as well as meeting rooms, public computer access, free Wi-Fi and more. For more information, visit www.vwarner.org.

The Warner Hospital & Health Services provides the area with professional medical care. For more information, visit www.warnerhospital.org.

Numerous churches representing most major denominations dot the Clinton area. All are listed on the Chamber’s website at www.clintonilchamber.com.

The Clinton Community YMCA is a full facility YMCA, offering many services for all ages, including an indoor pool.

For more information, visit www.clintoncommymca.org.

2020 Clinton Calendar of Events

Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information or other activities.

March 26: Clinton Chamber’s Business Expo. Clinton High School Gym from 4 to 7 p.m.

May-October: Clinton Area Farmers & Artisans Market.

Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon on Mr. Lincoln’s Square, downtown, Clinton. Special Apple ’n’ Pork Market on September 26, 27.

May 14-17: MayDays Festival. Mr. Lincoln’s Square, downtown, Clinton.

June, July, & August: Music on Main & Center. Live Music on Mr. Lincoln’s Square Stage. For more information, visit Facebook at Music on Main & Center.

June 1-30: Quilted Keepsakes Annual Quilt Show. For more info, visit www.chmoorehomestead.org.

June 23: Golf Outing. Clinton Country Club.

June 27: Tour DeWitt. For more information, visit www.TourDeWitt.weebly.com or Facebook.

Lincoln display at Warner Library.

Clinton’s downtown is home to Three Doors Down Brewery & Brew Pub, located on the southeast corner of Mr. Lincoln’s Square. Find out more on Facebook.

Visitors may catch a box office hit at the community’s five-screen movie complex, which shows recently released movies and offers some appealing extras such as free refills on popcorn and soda, discounted admission nights and free popcorn Thursdays. For more information, visit www.eagletheater.net.

Clinton’s Terror on Washington Street Haunted House is open in October. Visit the event website at www.clintonhauntedhouse.com for dates, times, and pricing.

Contact the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau at 217-935-3364, find us on Facebook, or visit www.clintonilchamber.com.

Overnight accommodations in Clinton are offered at Sunset Inn & Suites, www.SunsetInnandSuites.com, 217-9354140; Town & Country Motel, 217-935-2121; and, Wye Motel, 217-935-3373.

July 4: Clinton’s 4th of July Celebration. Sponsored by Celebrate Clinton. Mr. Lincoln’s Square, downtown, Clinton.

July 5: 4th of July Fireworks. Sponsored by Celebrate Clinton. Display at dusk on the southwest edge of Clinton.

September 26, 27: Apple ’n’ Pork Festival. Sponsored by the C. H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum, the official home of the Apple ’n’ Pork Festival at 219 E. Woodlawn Street. Other festival locations include: Country Junction, 1477 W. State Highway 54; Clinton Antique Mall, 1439 W. State Highway 54; Country Church Craft Mall, 1160 State Highway 54 West; St. John’s Parish Center, 502 N. Monroe St.; Clinton Presbyterian Church, 302 N. Center; Clinton Area Farmers & Artisans Market, downtown Clinton; and, Vespasian Warner Public Library, 200 Block N. Center.

October 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31: Clinton’s Terror on Washington Street Haunted House. For more information, visit www.clintonhauntedhouse.com or Facebook.

November 28: Clinton Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Christmas Parade at 2 p.m.

December 5, 12, 19: Santa’s House. Mr. Lincoln’s Square, downtown Clinton from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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ROBINSON: CRAWFORD COUNTY

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Crawford County: Enjoy Multiple Attractions, Festivals And Outdoor Activities

rawford County, IL, has with its own distinguishing feasomething for everyone tures. Robinson, the county seat, — historical sites, golf is home to the late writer James courses, camping, recreational Jones, author of From Here to lakes and rivers, unique shops, Eternity and The Thin Red Line, family-oriented annual events, and is the birthplace of the Heath museums, fine dining and excelCandy Bar. Hershey Chocolate, lent hotel/motel accommodations. producers of the Heath Bar, The county offers three golf along with Marathon Petroleum courses, a forest preserve, hiking, and Lincoln Trail College, make biking and horseback trails, musetheir home in Robinson. Retail ums, sports courts, beautiful parks, choices include clothing, jewThe Oil Field Museum in Oblong. fishing lakes, a conservation area elry, antiques, home dÊcor, speand campsites. The Wabash River serves as the winding eastern edge cialty foods, floral and garden shops. The Robinson City Park of Crawford County. features state-of-the-art baseball and softball fields, and the newly Crawford County was formed December 31, 1816, and is located renovated Pelican Cove aquatic center with a splash pad and two in east central Illinois. The county was named in honor of William water slides.

Oblong, located on the western edge of the county, also offers a H. Crawford, a United States senator from Georgia, who also served as Minister of France, Secretary of War, and Secretary of the Treas- variety of unique retailers. Collectibles, quilt and sewing supplies, ury. In addition, he was a prominent presidential candidate in 1824. handcrafted gifts, floral, and furnishings can be found along Main Crawford County consists of several unique communities, each Street in Oblong. The Oil Field Museum in Oblong features two

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buildings of displays, tools, books and litvisit www.facebook.com/groups/Huterature, working models and photographs sonville.River.Fest/. regarding the boom days of oil discovery August TBD: Robinson City-Wide in Crawford County in the early 1900s.

Garage Sales. Contact the C of C at 618Palestine is the oldest town in the state 546-1557 for a list of participants. of Illinois still in its original location. The August 7-9: Oblong Antique Tractor entire business district is listed on the Naand Engine Show. Fairgrounds in Oblong. tional Historic Register, with many turnThis annual event draws visitors from all of-the-century buildings that house art over to view actual working antique tracgalleries, antique and collectable stores, tors and engines. and gift shops. Visitors come from all August 8, 9: Flat Rock Homecoming. around to visit this historic village full of Visit the village of Flat Rock for a weekPelican Cove Aquatic Park rich history. Palestine is home to the Fife end full of activities including food, venat the Robinson City Pool Opera House, the annual Pioneer City dors, and a parade.

Labor Day Festival and Rodeo, and many other history-rich events September 3-7: Annual Pioneer City Labor Day Festival and throughout the year.

Rodeo. Pioneer City Arena, Leaverton Park & Main Street in PalesHustonville, at the Wabash River bridge on the northeast edge tine. Street fair, carnival, PRCA rodeo, flea market, free entertainof the county, features the Hutson Memorial Village. A “town” ment, town-wide garage sales and more. Contact: Palestine made up of original, furnished log cabins, a log barn, and log Chamber of Commerce 618-586-2222, www.pioneercity.com or church, is named in honor of the Isaac Hutson family, which was email PalestineCofC@verizon.net. massacred by Indians in 1813. Every even year, the event is September 19: 4th Annual Crawford County Fest-Of-Ale. re-enacted, and a number of family oriented events are The city of Robinson will host a craft beer festival in held at the complex throughout the year.

Robinson City Park. Visit www.ccfestofale.com for Flat Rock gets a big “thumbs up” when it comes tickets and more information. to a great milkshake, fresh pie, and friendly conOctober 2, 3: Annual Heath Toffee Festival versation. The annual Flat Rock Homecoming and Parade. The square in Robinson. Celebratis a great time to visit the village for memorable ing the Heath Candy Bar, created in 1928 by family fun.

Heath Brothers Confectionary in Robinson.

Call 618-546-1557 for more information.

Experience a lifetime of happiness in CrawOctober 2, 3: Annual Wabash Valley Wine & ford County. Everything is at your fingertips — friendly neighborhoods, quality education, modArts Festival. Several wineries provide various ern health care facilities, noteworthy recreation and wines for tasting. Main Street in Palestine. Features premium shopping choices. Business opportunities artworks from numerous artists from the Wabash Valley area. Some may be purchased. Food are welcomed with open arms. booths and live entertainment. Saturday from For more information, contact the City of On Saturday, September 19, the city 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 Robinson at 618-544-7616 or visit www.cityof Robinson will host its fourth annual Fest-Of-Ale in the Robinson City Park. p.m. Contact: Susan Goodwine 618-586-2035. ofrobinson.com/tourism. Visitors are always October 31: Annual Oblong Fall Follies welcome in Crawford County. and “Spooktacular” Band fest and Parade. Features night parade, 2020 Crawford County Calendar of Events band field competition, food, crafts, and entertainment on the square in Oblong. Call 618-592-4355 for more information.

Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead November 20-22: Lighting of Christmas displays. Downtown or visit www.cityofrobinson.com for more information.

Robinson. Santa arrives, food booths, kids games, train ride, May 23: Palestine Lions Club Fish Fry, Car Club Cruise-In & silent auction of decorated Christmas trees and night parade on Flea Market. Leaverton Park, from 8 a.m. until the fish runs out, Saturday. Call the Chamber of Commerce for more information to help the Lions with their many projects. Crawford County Col- at 618-546-1557.

November 20, 21: Crawford County Retailer’s Holiday Open lectibles Car Club will display automobiles from the past and presHouses. Begins at 9 a.m. Travel Route 33 through Robinson and ent. Contact: Lion Otis Tuttle at 618-562-3881.

June TBD: Annual Robinson Chamber of Commerce Golf Out- Palestine to find that perfect Christmas gift. Contact: Robinson ing. Quail Creek County Club in Robinson. Contact: Robinson Area Chamber of Commerce at 618-546-1557.

November 21: Palestine Preservation Projects Society Cookie Chamber of Commerce at 618-546-1557.

July 4: Robinson 4th of July Celebration. Robinson City Park. Walk. Fife Opera House beginning at 9 a.m. Browse table after Call City Hall at 618-544-7616 or visit www.cityofrobinson.com table of homemade cookies for purchase. Contact: Nita Jochim at 618-586-2427. for more information.

November 27: Leaverton Park Holiday Lighting Festival. At 5 July 18-25: Crawford County Fair. Oblong Fair Grounds. 4-H exhibits, queen pageant, carnival rides, food booths, truck and trac- p.m., Leaverton Park in Palestine. Features more than 40,000 lights tor pull, and a demolition derby. Ends with a large 4-H auction. and displays. Hot chocolate and cookies with Santa, church choirs and singing groups caroling. Fireworks and food served by the Contact www.crawfordfair.com for more information.

July 31-Aug. 2: Hutsonville River Fest. For more information, Lions Club. Contact Palestine C of C at 618-586-2222.

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EFFINGHAM: EFFINGHAM COUNTY

Effingham: Something For Everyone

The Cross at the Crossroads: Located on the south side of Effocated in Central Illinois where Interstate 57 meets I-70, the city of Effingham has something for everyone. With 17 ingham, the cross stands 19 stories tall alongside one of America’s hotels and more than 65 restaurants, Effingham provides most traveled interstate corridors. Approximately 53,600 people view the 198-foot tall symbol of love and the very best in service and hospitality. hope each day. The open arms of the cross, The Effingham Performance Center, which expand a full 113 feet, are a welCross at the Crossroads, Firefly Grill, coming signal to approaching travelers.

Mid America Motorworks’ My Garage The Cross is currently working on a Museum, Tuscan Hills Winery, Effing grounds enhancing project. For more inBrew Company, John Boos & Co. Outlet formation, visit www.crossusa.org.

Showroom and Lake Sara are just a few Mid America Motorworks’ My of the many attractions that make EffinGarage Museum: Located on the northgham a tourism destination for thousands east side of Effingham, My Garage Muof travelers each year. seum is a one-of-a-kind museum that The city also hosts several annual events houses vintage Corvettes, Volkswagens including the Artisan Fair and Effingham and thousands of pieces of Corvette hisCruise Night in May, Moccasin Creek Festival in June, the Effingham JAM in July, tory and memorabilia. There is no adSummer Sundown Music Festival in Sepmission charge. The museum is open six tember and Wonderland in Lights during days a week. For more information, visit the Christmas season. Effingham and surwww.mygaragemuseum.com. rounding area attractions include: Sculptures on the Avenue: Sculptures The Effingham Performance Cenon the Avenue is an annual outdoor art exter: Located on the north side of Effinghibit that brings an array of artwork to ham along Outerbelt West, is a 1,564-seat downtown Effingham and features some theater that hosts 30 performances a year. of the Midwest’s best-known and unLocal, regional, and national acts are known sculptors. Entering its 22nd year, scheduled to perform, with categories inSculptures on the Avenue is a self-guided cluding country, southern gospel, pop/top walking tour that winds through down40, contemporary Christian, comedy, town Effingham. Come explore the sculpjazz, dance, classical, and bluegrass. tures that have transformed the city’s The Cross At The Crossroads Headlining acts include REO Speedavenues into an art gallery. For more inforwagon, the Newsboys, Montgomery Gentry, Charlie Daniels Band mation, visit www.visiteffinghamil.com or call 217-342-5310. and the Happy Together Tour. For more information, visit Firefly Grill: Firefly Grill is a modern roadhouse restaurant lowww.theepc.org or find tickets on Ticketmaster. cated on the shores of Kristie Lake. Chef Niall Campbell and his wife, Kristie, own and operate this oasis of farm and table cuisine in the heart of the Midwest. It has been recognized for its efforts in going green, its unique events and its beautiful rural setting. Firefly’s ever-changing menu boasts fresh, sustainable seafood, prime steaks, brick oven pizzas and soulful American-fresh cuisine. Firefly is passionate about sourcing the best ingredients, many of which are grown in an on-site organic garden. Garden tours and • Cutting Boards CUST cooking demonstrations make this a must stop for group tours.

OM LAS • Butcher Blocks ENGR ER Firefly Grill is honored to be a part of Enjoy Illinois’ “Illinois A • Gift Packs AVAIL VING ABLE !

• Kitchen Countertops Made” program. For more information, visit www.ffgrill.com.

• Gourmet Kitchen Carts Tuscan Hills Winery: Tuscan Hills Winery is located on His• Butcher Block Tables & Islands • Kitchen Tools & Accessories toric Hills Drive, directly behind the Harley Barn. This winery fea• Stainless Steel Foodservice tures eight picturesque acres, which helps bring an Old World Equipment Tuscan feel to the heart of Effingham. The owners are focused on creating elegant, approachable and perfectly balanced wines of the highest quality. The Stellar Cellar is a great addition to the winery. one single retail priced item In-Store Only. May not be used online.

Wine tastings and tours, along with space available for reservaCoupon must be present at time of purchase.

May not be combined with other o ers. tions, make this a must stop for group tours. Check out the winery’s EXPIRES 12/31/2020 website for its live events each week, including live music, dueling 1703 AVENUE OF MID AMERICA pianos and murder mystery theater dinners. For more information, SHOP ONLINE 24/7!

EFFINGHAM, IL 62401 • (217) 347-7790 SHOP.BUTCHERBLOCKSPECIALIST.COM MON-FRI: 8AM-6PM • SAT: 8AM-4PM visit www.effinghamwinery.com.

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Effingham Visitor Center: The Effingham Visitor Center, located off exit 160, offers services to travelers including maps, guides and brochures. Stop in for a free Effingham souvenir.

Coupon and discount books are also available at the Visitor Center.

Call 217-342-5310 or visit www.visiteffinghamil.com.

Wonderland in Lights: Each year, the City of Effingham Convention and Visitors Bureau turns the Community Park on East Temple Avenue into a winter wonderland. The Wonderland in Lights is a drive-through light display that features a variety of lighted holiday scenes. Santa visits the Wonderland in Lights each Saturday to hand out toys to the children. The display opens on Thanksgiving Day and runs through the New Year. For more holiday displays, head to downtown Effingham and check out the 3-D displays on the courthouse lawn. For more info, visit www.visiteffinghamil.com.

Harmony Playground: Harmony Playground is a new inclusive playground accessible to all children, adults and veterans. The playground features wheelchair-friendly ramps, accessible swings, as well as musical elements designed to help children who face sensory challenges. Visit www.effinghamparkdistrict.org for more information.

Stang Arts Studio & Gallery: Nestled in downtown Effingham, Stang Arts features art classes for both children and adults, along with events throughout the year, such as paint parties. Make sure to stop by and check out the art gallery or book an event. For more information, call 850-960-0106.

John Boos & Co. Outlet: John Boos & Co. is the oldest manufacturer of butcher blocks and metal tables in the industry.

The first butcher blocks were made in Conrad Boos’ blacksmith shop in Effingham more than 130 years ago. John Boos & Co. hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. John Boos Butcher Blocks are used by several celebrity chefs, including Emeril Lagasse and Rachel Ray, who gave John Boos’ blocks John Boos & Co. Outlet away on her talk show.

The butcher blocks can also be found on popular Food Network shows such as Chopped.

A study conducted by Mechanical Science and Engineering Professor Nenad Miljkovic and his research laboratory at the University of Illinois, found that the NSF listed Northern Hard Rock Maple cutting boards by John Boos & Co. kill bacteria. Data gathered by the team concluded that application of the NSF listed Boos Block® Mystery Oil and Board Cream on the boards created an “antimicrobial, hydrophobic surface that decreased their surface bacteria to a ‘clean level’ in just three hours” without using recommended board cleaning procedures.

Proper board cleaning procedures are still recommended to maintain the board’s surface. John Boos & Co. recommends wiping the board down with a clean disposable towel after each use to the remove the food liquids from the board’s surface. Next, rinse the board with warm soapy water and dry it immediately with a clean cloth. Finally, reapply a layer of Boos Block® Mystery Oil followed by a layer of Board Cream. Never wash a wood cutting PAGE 58 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

board in a dishwasher or immerse it in a sink full of water.

Groups are welcome to come and learn about the history of John Boos, and shop in the store.

For more info, call 217-347-7790 or visit www.butcherblockspecialist.com.

Effing Brew Company: Effing Brew Company is a local familyowned company nestled in downtown Effingham. Effing Brew Company offers delicious food, outstanding beer, excellent catering services and delightful events. Their brews are old-world and handcrafted, using the freshest ingredients, with complete attention to detail. The brewery is actually on display in the restaurant as well.

Ballard Nature Center: The Ballard Nature Center is located just minutes west of Effingham, nestled into a wooded area near National Road U.S. 40. Miles of wooded trails, dozens of species of birds and the natural setting offer a true outdoor experience. Dioramas and interactive exhibits offer entertainment and effortless education on the flora and fauna of this region. The trails and outdoor area are open from dawn until dusk. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call 618-483-6856.

Effingham Continued On Page 74

2020 Effingham Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

April TBA: Blessing of the Bikes. For more information, call 217-342-3494 or visit www.legacyhd.com.

April 4: Lake Sara Dam Run. For more information, visit www.lakesaradamrun.com.

May-October: Farmer’s Market. Saturdays through October.

Email effinghamfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

May 1, 2: Artisan Fair. For more information, call 217-3425310 or visit www.effinghamartisanfair.com.

May 16: Effingham Spring Cruise Night. For more information, visit www.visiteffinghamil.com.

June 12-14: VW Funfest. For more information, call 866-3504539 or visit www.funfestacvw.com.

June 18-21: Moccasin Creek Festival. For more information, visit www.moccasincreekfestival.com.

July 4: 4th of July Fireworks. For more information, call 217342-5310.

July 24, 25: EffingHAM-JAM BBQ Cookoff. For more information, call 217-342-4147.

July-August TBA: Effingham County Fair. For more information, visit www.effinghamcountyfair.com.

September 11, 12: Hobnob Harvest Market. For more information, visit www.hobnobmarket.com.

September 17-20: Corvette Funfest. For more information, call 866-309-3973 or visit www.corvettefunfest.com.

September 18-20: Summer Sundown Music Festival. For more information, visit www.summersundownfest.com.

October 9: United Way Witches Ball. For more information, call 217-342-3824 or visit www.effinghamunitedway.org.

October 25: Halloween Parade. Call 217-342-4147.

November-December: Wonderland in Lights. Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. For more information, call 217-342-5310 or visit www.visiteffinghamil.com.

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DECATUR: MACON COUNTY

Decatur-Forsyth: Rich In History, Vibrant Downtown, Fun Attractions

entrally located in the heart of Illinois, the city of Decatur is a jewel of a community, nestled alongside 32 miles of scenic Lake Decatur shoreline. With a rich history, vibrant downtown, fun attractions and diverse dining options, there is truly something for everyone.

The Village of Forsyth, located on the north end of Decatur, is a thriving community with dozens of popular restaurants, shopping centers and a multi-plex theater. With a combined total of 22 hotels and motels, more than 70 locally-owned restaurants, plus numerous venues, parks and sporting facilities, the Decatur-Forsyth area is big enough to offer a wide variety of fun events and entertainment options, but small enough to give visitors that hometown feel and service.

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

Mount Zion, IL, Pony Express Days, Arts in Central Park, Downtown Decatur Christmas Walk, Vespers at Millikin University and many more. There is always something fun happening in the Decatur-Forsyth area.

Family Fun: Pack up a vehicle and bring the kids over to enjoy good family fun at some great attractions that are part of the Decatur Park District. Overlook Adventure Park features two 18-hole mini golf courses, a ropes course, batting cages and an aquatic cen-

Better Health

Downtown Decatur. Photo: Aloft Imagery

With so many things to see and do, it can be hard to decide where to spend time. Request a free copy of the official Decatur-Forsyth Visitor Guide at www.decaturcvb.com for a complete list of area attractions, but in the meantime, here are a few ideas to get a visitor’s itinerary started: Antiques & Collectibles: With more than 10 antique and collectible shops in Macon County, offering thousands of square feet to explore, visitors will need an entire weekend to go treasure hunting here. Locals say you shouldn’t miss the Wabash Depot Antique Centre, the longtime headquarters for the Wabash Railroad Company, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In its heyday, all tracks led to the depot. Now restored to its early 20th century rail depot grandeur, this impressive 10,000-squarefoot building is filled with antique dealers and vintage items.

Breweries: Decatur is now home to three craft breweries and taprooms: Decatur Brew Works, Door 4 Brewing Company, and the newest addition, Golden Fox Brewing. Catering to the true beer lover, spend a day searching for the perfect pint — you just might find it right here. In addition to great beer, the breweries often host fun special events and activities.

Events: More than 300 events and festivals take place in the Decatur-Forsyth area each year, encompassing arts, crafts, music, dance, fun fairs, sports, and just about anything else you can imagine. Local favorites include the Argenta, IL, IceFest, Downtown Mardi Gras, Corks & Forks, Warrensburg, IL, Corn Festival, USTA/Ursula Beck Pro Tennis Classic, Decatur Celebration,

• • • •

Nutritional & Herbal Supplements Vitamins & Homeopathic Remedies Organic, Gourmet, Health & Gluten Free Foods Over 14,000 Products Available

Better Taste • Sign up for our cooking shows & BBQs • Ask about private luncheons & events

Better Life • Tours Are Available • Gift Shop & Tea Room • Listen to Mike On The Radio www.marimann.com/radio

(217) 429-1555 Open Daily 9 am – 5 pm | Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm www.marimann.com | www.shopmarimann.com

2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 59

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The Wabash Depot Antique Centre is over 10,000 square feet of beautifully restored marble floors and columns with stained glass windows and tube chandeliers. Built in 1901, the depot is on the National Register of Historic Places. Wabash Depot Antique Centre 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 • Tools Layaways, Visa, Mastercard, Discover ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

First Weekend In June

Ph: 217-233-0800 780 E. Cerro Gordo Street • Decatur, IL 62523 Just North of Eldorado Street/Route 36 Follow us on:

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

First Weekend In November

ter nestled in the hills of Nelson Park. Just down the road, take a walk on the wild side at Scovill Zoo. One of just 210 zoos nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Scovill Zoo has hundreds of wild and domestic animals from Madagascar to Australia and every place in between. Take a ride on the Z.O.O. Express train or hop on the Endangered Species Carousel and circle the Children’s Museum of Illinois. Visit www.decatur-parks.org for hours and fees.

History: Decatur has an impressive history dating to 1829, when Macon County was carved out of the rich central Illinois soil. There were few settlers and no town to serve as a county seat. To fill the need, a new city, comprised of four-square blocks, was laid out on a bend of the Sangamon River and named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, a U.S. naval hero of the battle of Tripoli.

Among its first residents was the family of a young Abraham Lincoln, who first came to Decatur in March of 1830 and split rails at a log cabin west of town. The future president of the United States would be tied to the city of Decatur for the next three decades. He practiced law at the then log cabin courthouse. He gave his famous “Stump Speech” at the corner of Main and Merchant that propelled him to the political forefront, and, ultimately, being nominated for president by John Palmer during the 1860 Illinois Republican Convention at the site of “The Wigwam” on North Water Street.

Fifteen wayside exhibits in Decatur have been produced as part of the Looking for Lincoln initiative — follow the trail with the Shadows of Lincoln brochure to walk in the footsteps of our nation’s 16th president. Other notable historic figures with ties to Decatur include Illinois Governor Richard Oglesby, James Millikin, PAGE 60 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

founder of Millikin University, A.E. Staley and Hieronymus Mueller.

Museums: What do classic cars, water pressure valves, a log courthouse, the Chicago Bears — originally founded as the Decatur Staleys — and a 7,000-square-foot law enforcement-themed exhibit including a real police helicopter, all have in common?

They are all part of the exciting displays that can be discovered in Decatur’s seven museums dedicated to preserving the past, embracing the future, and having fun while doing it. Check out the full list of area museums in the Decatur-Forsyth Visitor Guide.

Public Art: With seven art galleries, the Scovill Sculpture Park, and an exciting movement that has brought more than 20 vibrant murals to life on the sides of various buildings and structures, Decatur is home to a thriving public art scene. Visit www.decaturarts.org/community-arts/ to view the interactive Map to Public Art in Decatur.

Restaurants: Getting hungry? With plenty of options from American eateries, farm-to-table, fine dining, tasty desserts, spe2020 Decatur Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

Updated information can be found at www.decaturcvb.com.

Decatur Continued On Page 63

March 28: Penguin in the Park 5K. Fairview Park.

April 2-4: Pride of the Prairie Spring Marble Show. Country Inn and Suites.

April 3, 4: Dr. Cue Billiards Tournament. Conference Center.

April 18, 19: Decatur Spring Train Fair. Decatur Civic Center, Ameren Illinois Arena.

April 18, 19: Millikin Men’s/Women’s Golf Tournament. Southside Golf Course.

April 30: Corks & Forks. Decatur Conference Center & Hotel.

May 1-3: Heroicon. Decatur Conference Center & Hotel.

May 18: Finders Spring Market. Decatur Conference Center.

May 18: Millikin University Spring Commencement. Decatur Civic Center.

May 18, 19: The Midstate Cup Soccer Tournament. Decatur Soccer Complex.

June 9-14: Macon County Fair. Macon County Fairgrounds.

June 12-14: Optimists International Jr. Golf Tournament. Red Tail Run Golf Course.

June 13: Crappie USA. Lake Decatur.

July 9-12: Softball Girls Class A&B 10U State Tourney. Forsyth Park.

July 9-12: Softball Girls Class B 18U State Tourney. Rotary Park.

July 17-19: Slow-Pitch State Tourney. Rotary Park.

July 23-25: Warrensburg Corn Fest. Main Street, Warrensburg.

July 26-August 2: USTA/Ursula Beck Pro Tennis Classic.

Fairview Park Tennis Complex.

July 31-August 2: Decatur Celebration. Downtown Decatur.

August 29: Decatur Craft Beer Festival. 100 N. Water Street, downtown Decatur.

September 18-20: Arts in Central Park. Central Park, downtown Decatur.

September 21: Finders Fall Market. Conference Center.

October 19: Finders Holiday Market. Conference Center.

November 6-8: Pride of the Prairie Fall Marble Show. Country Inn & Suites.

December 2: Christmas Walk. Downtown Decatur.

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LITCHFIELD: MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Litchfield: Attracts Nature Lovers, Route 66 Fans

itchfield, IL, is conveniently located on Interstate 55 and Route library maintains its original façade. While you are viewing an original 66, 45 miles south of Springfield, IL, and 60 miles north of St. Carnegie building, make sure to check out the Veteran’s Memorial Garden Louis, MO. This tourist destination satisfies the needs of both naon the east side of the park. If you time your vacation correctly, you can ture lovers and Route 66 fans. shop the downtown Litchfield Pickers While traveling Route 66, do not Market, which is the region’s largest miss the opportunity to stop in Litchopen air, vintage and antique market. field. Grab a doughnut at Jubelt’s BakIf a nature retreat is more your style, ery & Restaurant, which has provided Litchfield has what you need. Grab tasty treats to Mother Road visitors your binoculars as well as your camera since 1922, or have a delicious meal at and head five miles west of Route 66 the Ariston Café, the oldest continuinto the heart of Litchfield and visit ously operating restaurant along all of Lake Lou Yaeger. There, you will be Route 66. When your appetite is satisengulfed by the picturesque scenery of fied, walk across the street and ima 1,400-acre public lake, complete with merse yourself in Route 66 and local picnic areas in multiple locations. history at the Litchfield Museum & Self-guided hiking trails are available Route 66 Welcome Center. If you in the Shoal Creek Conservation Area, cruise the Mother Road on a motorcywhere you have the opportunity to spot cle, make a pit stop at nearby Niehaus many species of butterflies, birds, and Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center.

Cycle Sales. other wildlife. The Route 66 Hike & As dusk approaches, experience a Bike Trail is more than five miles true drive-in movie at the Litchfield Skyview Drive-In, the oldest continround trip, and another great hiking and biking adventure. uously operated drive-in theater on Route 66. Do not worry, if you are not The campgrounds at Lake Lou Yaeger are conducive to both RVs and able to make a movie, stop when you can and view the Roadside exhibit. tents, and camping cabins are available for renting. For equestrians, Lake Make sure you take a picture of yourself with the giant screen behind you.

Lou Yaeger is equipped with horse trails and a newly renovated equestrian When you venture into the heart of Litchfield’s downtown, you will see campground. the historic Litchfield Carnegie Library building, completed in 1905. The Lake Lou Yaeger is a public, city lake with two marinas for easy boat access, many points for shore fishing, and Milnot Beach for swimmers and sunbathers. Kayaks, paddle boards and corcls are available to rent at the beach. Access to the aquatic playground is included with your beach admission.

With all of these fantastic sites, plus six hotels for your convenience and an endless supply of dining options, Litchfield is a must-see destination along your journey through central Illinois.

d l e h c Lit

Visit

Get Your Kicks!

AUTHENTIC ROUTE 66 NOSTALGIA BEAUTIFUL LAKE LOU YAEGER CHARMING DOWNTOWN 300 ROOMS • 30+ RESTAURANTS

VisitLitch eld.com 866-733-5833 PAGE 62 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

2020 Litchfield Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Call ahead for specific information and additional activities. More events at www.VisitLitchfield.com/events, or call 866-733-5833.

April 11: Litchfield Spring Duathlon. 2-Mile Run, 12-Mile Bike, 2Mile Run. Litchfield High School. 618-972-7240 or email mmm@mmmultisport.com or visit www.mmmultisport.com.

April 25: Flyer Fest: Spring Carnival. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Zion Lutheran School. 217-324-3166 or email jenny@lovelesscentral.org or visit www.zionlutheranlitchfield.com/fundraising.

May 10, June 14, July 12, Aug. 9, Sept. 13, Oct. 11: Litchfield Pickers Market. Open Air Vintage & Antique Market. The second Sunday of the month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 866-733-583 or email tourism@cityoflitchfieldil.com or visit www.VisitLitchfield.com.

May 15-17: Niehaus Cycle Sales Customer Appreciation Days. 217324-6565, email brad@niehauscycle.com. www. niehauscycle.com.

June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Litchfield Farmers Market: A Producer Market and Live in Library Park Concert Series. Free Musical Performances. Thursday nights in June and July. Farmer’s Market from 4 to 8 p.m. Concert from 6 to 8 p.m. 866-733-5833 or email tourism@cityoflitchfieldil.com or visit www.VisitLitchfield.com.

June 7-12: 2020 Grand Illinois Bike Tour: Ride Illinois Bike Tour.

Multi-day ride, starting and stopping in Litchfield. 630-978-0583 or email info@rideillinois.org.

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June 12, July 10, Aug. 14, Sept. 11: Litchfield Park District Concert Series. Free. Walton Park. 217-324-9075 or email parkdistdirector@litchfieldil.com or visit www.litchfieldparkdistrict.com.

June 27: Fit for Life Quadruple Bypass & Fun Run. 8 a.m. at Lake Lou Yaeger Beach House.

618-972-7240 or email mmm@mmmultisport.com or visit www.mmmultisport.com.

July 4: 5K Freedom Fun Run/Walk. 7:30 a.m. at Lake Lou Yaeger. 866533-5833 or email tourism@cityoflitchfieldil.com or visit www.VisitLitchfield.com.

July 4: Music by the Lake. Band TBA. 7:30 p.m., Lake Lou Yaeger.

866-533-5833 or email tourism@cityoflitchfieldil.com or visit www.VisitLitchfield.com.

July 4: Fireworks Display. 9:30 p.m., fireworks launch from Lake Lou Yaeger, Marina 1. 866-533-5833 or email tourism@cityoflitchfieldil.com or visit www.VisitLitchfield.com.

August 29: Fit for Life Classic. 1 mile, 5K, or 10K race. 7 to 10 a.m., Lake Lou Yaeger Picnic Area 3. 618-972-7240 or email mmm@mmmultisport.com or visit www.mmmultisport.com.

September 11-13: RC Jet Rally. Remote control jet rally. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., September 11, 12, and 9 a.m. to noon, September 13. Litchfield Municipal Airport. 217-556-4299/217-324-4731 or email airport@litchfieldil.com or visit www.litchfieldil.com/airport.

September 12: Litchfield TriathLou Triathlon. Sprint, Olympic, and half distances. 7:30 a.m., Lake Lou Yaeger, Beach House. 317-625-2223 or email events@racemaker.org or visit www.racemaker.org/event/litchfield-triathlou-triathlon.

September 25, 26: Party in the Park. Noon to 11 p.m. Downtown Litchfield. 217-324-2533 or email info@litchfieldchamber.com or visit www.litchfieldchamber.com.

October 3: Harvest Hootenanny. 5K & biathlon, 9 a.m., Lake Lou Yaeger. 618-972-7240 or email mmm@mmmultisport.com or visit www.mmmultisport.com.

Halloween Events: Halloween Parade & Trick or Treating. For list of events, visit www.VisitLitchfield.com/events.

Christmas Events: Events for the Holiday Season. For a full list of Christmas events, visit www.VisitLitchfield.com/events.

BLOOMINGTON: MCLEAN CO.

Decatur: Continued From Page 60 cialty drinks, zesty ethnic fare, and everything in between, the Decatur-Forsyth area offers a tantalizing culinary experience sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters.

Shopping: Whether you prefer an indoor mall, a quaint gift boutique, or an entire shopping district, the Decatur-Forsyth area is the right spot for your next shopping excursion. Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth is home to favorites such as Von Maur, Hobby Lobby, Kohl’s, TJ Maxx, Ulta, and an array of other stores where you are certain to find something to your liking. Downtown Decatur is home to historic Merchant Street with locally owned stores and restaurants, while the stores on Main, Prairie, Water Street, and the West Main Village offer unique shops with unusual and one-of-a-kind items to pique your interest.

Mari-Mann Herb Farm: People who love the outdoors will enjoy Mari-Mann Herb Farm, 1405 Mari-Mann Lane, one of the Midwest’s oldest and largest herb farms. Mari-Mann offers luncheons by appointment, tours and a shop where a wide variety of natural herbal and homeopathic items are sold. For more information, call 217-429-1404, or visit www.marimann.com.

Wabash Depot Antique Centre: Located at 780 E. Cerro Gordo St., the center is a 10,000-square-foot restored train depot with beautiful marble columns and floors, stained glass windows, tube chandeliers and antiques of every kind. Call 217-233-0800.

2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 63

Bloomington: Home Of The American 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 on the Mount to the Resurrection and Ascension. You'll hear His words, as vital to you now as they were to the people of his time.

The American Passion Play, unlike other passion plays, dramatizes Jesus' entire ministry, rather than just the events from the Passion Week onward. His teachings on faith, love, justice and righteousness are still our best hope for solving today's complex problems. The message of his three-year ministry has a larger meaning for our daily lives than do the emotions of Passion Week alone.

The play is historically accurate. The settings and costumes re-create the first century Galilee.

The text is taken from the King James Version of the Bible, and the performers bring this magnificent language to life.

Celebrating its 98th anniversary in 2021, the American Passion Play of Bloomington, American Passion Play Illinois was conceived by Delmar D. Darrah to show the life and ministry of Christ as a vital, living force. Although this is one of the oldest continuously performed Passion Plays in the United States, it is not a static drama. The production has changed to reflect modern historical knowledge of the era but has remained true to the 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 faith with the audience and give testimony to the contemporary power of Christ's teachings. The renovated Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (formerly the Scottish Rite Temple) is the home of the American Passion Play.

Celebra ng Its 98th Anniversary In 2021 2021 Performance Dates: □ Saturday, March 13 □ Saturday, March 20 □ Saturday, March 27 □ Sunday, March 28 □ Saturday, April 10 All performances start at 1:00 p.m.

Discover/Visa/Mastercard

For 2021 Performances and Details Please Call 800-354-9640 309-829-3903 ● Fax: 309-828-5557

The American Passion Play, Inc. 600 N. East Street ● P.O. Box 3354 ● Bloomington, IL 61702-3354 ckets@americanpassionplay.org

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JACKSONVILLE: MORGAN COUNTY

Jacksonville: Historical Treasures, Restored Downtown

onveniently located between Springfield, IL, and St. Louis, MO, Jacksonville is a thriving community rich in historical treasures, unparalleled educational institutions, growing businesses, and hospitality all its own.

Stop by and visit us to experience some of our wide range of sports and recreation. For the outdoorsman, the Jacksonville area is home to an award-winning lake for fishing, boating, parks and campgrounds. For the athletic-type, there is a dirt racetrack, which world-renown racers have raced on, and a large sports complex in Lenz Field, which hosts multiple tournaments a year. Visitors will find lots to do, both night and day.

and shopping, all in the heart of this downtown community.

Staying one night or even a week? Jacksonville offers national brand hotels as well as a locally owned bed and breakfast in the historical part of town. Want to camp? Jacksonville offers that, too.

There are three great locations that individuals and/or families can enjoy. All provide a good night’s sleep.

Choices are numerous, and visitors will be sure to have fun (and maybe even learn a few things, too).

Further information is available by calling the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-593-5678 or visit jacksonvilleil.org.

For the history lovers, the city’s rich heritage includes numerous interesting sites that help make the past relevant to all generations.

Come follow in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln through historic Jacksonville. See the actual places and hear the real stories of Lincoln as told by his friends and associates, while Looking for Lincoln in Jacksonville. Be sure to take part in the historic homes walking tour, as well.

Jacksonville has a strong history, particularly in the 19th century.

Jacksonville is home to two Civil War generals, a very vocal abolitionist community, and was an active stop on the Underground Railroad, as slaves made their way to freedom in the North. There are many places to visit highlighting this history, including the Governor Duncan Mansion and Woodlawn Farm, the showcase homestead of Jacksonville’s Underground Railroad network.

No visit in Jacksonville is complete without stopping by the newly restored downtown. Visitors will find entertainment, dining

May 29-July 31 (excluding July 3, 10): Free Concert Series.

Every Friday. Downtown Presented by Jacksonville Main Street.

June 13: 6th Annual Spring Cruise Nite.

June 13: 24th Annual Downtown Car Show. Downtown.

July 4: 4th of July Celebration & Parade. Nichols Park. Parade, concessions, kids’ events, live entertainment, fireworks and more.

July 7-12: Annual Morgan County Fair. Fairgrounds. Games, rides and big band entertainment. www.jacksonvilleil.org.

July 23, 24: Kiwanis Youth Mem. Golf Tourn. Free for juniors.

July 24, 25: River Country Quilt Show. Jacksonville HS. August 6: DAR Annual Ice Cream Social. Lawn of Governor Duncan Mansion. Benefits the mansion.

August 8: Artisan Fair & Craft Brew Festival. Downtown.

Sponsored by Jacksonville Main Street.

Aug. 29-31: 22nd Annual Prairieland Chautauqua. Loc. TBD. September 19: 36th Annual Cruise Nite and Car Show.

September 25-28: 51st Annual Fall Festival & Steam Show Days. Prairie Land Heritage Museum.

October 24: Jacksonville Main Street’s Pumpkin Festival.

Downtown Jacksonville.

November 20-22: Pathway Services Festival of Trees. Pathway Services Unlimited.

December 6: Pilot Club’s 37th Annual Holiday Home Tour.

Cruise Nite

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2020 Jacksonville Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

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GREENVILLE: BOND COUNTY

Greenville’s DeMoulin Museum Features Interactive Displays

ocated where State Route 127 intersects with Interstate 70, less than an hour’s drive from downtown St. Louis, Greenville, IL, was founded in 1815 and is the county seat of Bond County. The town’s roots in agriculture, industry and education have shaped its reputation as a hardworking, innovative and caring community.

Greenville is also home to DeMoulin Bros. & Co., a factory founded in 1892 that is today a leading maker of marching band uniforms. The DeMoulin Museum, 205 S. Prairie St., provides a fascinating look at the company’s origin as a manufacturer of fraternal lodge initiation devices. Visitors will love the interactive displays and will even have a chance to ride the goat at a museum people truly have to experience to believe.

For more information, visit www.greenvilleillinois.com or call 618-664-1644. We welcome you to plan your next day trip or weekend getaway to our charming town.

2020 Greenville Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

April 1: SPARK Leadership Conference. Greenville University.

April 1: Career and Job Fair. Greenville University’s Krum Recreation Center, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

April 4: Easter Egg-stravaganza. Greenville First United Methodist Church, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

April 24: City-Wide Yard Sales. Rain dates May 1, 2.

May 1: GLOW RUN 5k. Bond County Courthouse, 8 p.m.

May 2: Bond County Courthouse Classic Car Cruise-In. Downtown Greenville.

May 2: Festival & BBQ Competition. Farm Heritage Museum.

June 6: CheeseFest. Marcoot Jersey Creamery.

June 12, 13: Dairy Days Festival. Downtown Greenville.

June 13: Model Train Show. American Farm Heritage Museum.

June 20: Greenville Graffiti Car Show.

June 27: Hummingbird Festival. Stoecklin’s Orchard, 4-7 p.m.

July 3: Hometown Heroes Celebration. 4-6:30 p.m.

July 4: Fourth Fest. Fireworks, free concerts.

July 26-28: Farm Heritage Days. Farm Heritage Museum.

July 30-August 4: Bond County Fair. Greenville.

September 12: Courthouse Classic Car Cruise-In. Downtown.

September 18-20: Hill's Fort Rendezvous.

John Goldsmith presenting a seminar at the DeMoulin Museum.

Early October: Fall On The Farm. Marcoot Jersey Creamery.

October 2, 3: ArtWalk and Apple Day. Downtown Greenville.

October 3: AirStravaganza. Greenville Regional Airport.

Thanksgiving to New Year’s: Annual Christmas Lights Display. American Farm Heritage Museum.

November 28: Come Home for Christmas. Downtown Greenville’s holiday celebration.

For information on advertising in the 2021 edition, call 800-598-8083,

discovercentralillinois.com 217-268-4959

or 217-268-4959, or email rankinmag@consolidated.net 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois | PAGE 65

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VANDALIA: FAYETTE COUNTY

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Vandalia: Rich In Lincoln, National Road History, Plus Experience Downtown Shops And Restaurants

tanding in the foyer of the Old State Capitol, one might ex- through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. post Labor pect a young Abraham Lincoln to come bounding down the Day. Located across the street from the Capitol is Lincoln Park, feawinding staircase after a House of Representatives session. turing a life-size bronze statue of The oldest remaining state capitol Abraham Lincoln designed by worldbuilding in Illinois is located at the inrenowned Lincoln sculptor John Mctersection of the National Road (U.S. Clarey.

40) and U.S. Route 51 in the city of Directly north of the old Capitol is Vandalia. The restored building welthe Fayette County Museum, located comes visitors who want to experiin the historic Presbyterian Church ence the early years of Lincoln’s built in 1867. The building is on the career (1834-1839).

National Register of Historic Places Ten Lincoln Wayside Exhibits have and houses Lincoln-era memorabilia been erected. Eight are around the and artifacts of the people living in capitol at Rogier Park and at the Old the county. Of special interest is an State Cemetery. These storyboards The 35-foot Kaskaskia Supply fire-breathing dragon original paper press from the Capitol, feature little known facts from President Lincoln’s life and times in Vandalia. Visitors may not know and visitors can hold a hand tool traced back to Lincoln that is that Lincoln proposed to a woman named Mary Owens before he etched with the initials “A.L.” The museum is open Monday met Mary Todd, or that Lincoln and Stephen Douglas first met here. through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

One block west on 5th Street, visitors can see the only National Also, Lincoln’s first official stand against slavery was in Vandalia.

The Vandalia Statehouse is open May through Labor Day, Tuesday Road Interpretive Center in Illinois. The National Road was the

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first and only totally federGolf Course. Foresee Winally funded road in the counery, the Buckstop 3-D try. Here visitors can learn Archery, and Sandy Run the history of travel and Hunt Co., a hunting club transportation in the early with upland bird hunting days of the country. The and trophy whitetail, are Center reminds visitors that also in the area. At Sandy Vandalia was the terminus of Run, special birds are chokthe National Road, which ers, pheasants and quail. began in Baltimore, MD. Dogs can be provided.

The Center routinely adds The 35-foot Kaskaskia exhibits to its fine collection.

Supply fire-breathing dragPhoto: Megan Frazier Photography The Interpretive Center is on can be visited at Veterans open Tuesday through Satur0Avenue and Rock Island Downtown Vandalia at Christmas time. day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Avenue.

On the corner of the Old State Capitol Lawn visitors can find the Purchase your “Dragon Tokens” to catch the real magic, and Madonna of the Trail Statue. This is one of 12 statues in the United watch the beast come alive with glowing red yes and fire blowing States on the National Road honoring the pioneer women who from its snout 16 feet overhead. This unique attraction makes for a walked behind the wagons to open the west. The statues were do- great photo op and the kids will love it. nated by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and With so many exciting new and historical activities, it makes dedicated in 1928 and 1929. sense to spend the night in Vandalia. With clean, comfortable lodgVandalia isn’t just a place for history buffs, it is also a thriving ing accommodations and an excellent selection of shops and restaucommunity of quaint shops, new restaurants and patios and period rants, visitors are certain to be well fed and rested for another day style lights and benches, making for a relaxing downtown experi- of exploring, or for the return trip home. ence. Downtown shops include: Bernadine and Betty’s Boutique, Visitors can also enjoy more than 60 acres of parks and walking Charters Patio, Country Folk, Iya’s and Friends, Ruby Layne Bou- trails. tique, Tiger Lily Florist & Gifts, The Turning Leaf, and many more Vandalia hosts a plethora of events all year including Abraham shops and businesses.

Lincoln’s Birthday in February, the Grand Levee in June, Olde Downtown restaurants include Blind Society, The Copper Penny, Tyme Christmas in November and The Statehouse GALA in DeEl Taco Fiesta, Gallatin Street Grille, Howie’s on Main and many cember. For a complete calendar of events, call 618-283-2728, or more locally owned restaurants. visit www.vandaliaillinois.com.

Just south of the downtown area visitors can walk along the former historic Illinois Central Railroad to the beautiful scenery that is the Kaskaskia River. Visitors can enter the trail behind the Fayette County Health Department at 416 W. Edwards Street. They can enjoy the “Did You Know” signs that are spread throughout the trail to learn the history of the railroad, and about Abraham Lincoln’s involvement 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 to many cottage industries. Handcrafted items are produced at more than 20 businesses on the prairie, including fruits, flowers, 2020 Vandalia Calendar of Events vegetables, handmade cabinets, furniture and rugs. A variety of Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for repair shops, harness and tack and other services can also be specific information and additional activities. found, along with a country store that serves homemade lunches Monday through Saturday, with its Saturday special being the May 9: Vandalia Farmers’ Market. amazing soft pretzels.

June 13: Vandalia Farmers’ Market.

Lake Vandalia, northwest of the city on Illinois Route 185, is a June 19, 20: Grand Levee.

660-acre lake with swimming, camping, boating/fishing facilities, June 20: Vandalia Farmers’ Market. and nature walks that the entire family can enjoy. The beach has a June 20: Summer Concert Series. bathhouse and picnic area. Many fishing tournaments are conJuly 4: Lions Club Firework Display. ducted each year, as well as the Lions Club Fireworks on the weekJuly 11: Vandalia Farmers’ Market. end nearest to the 4th of July. Camping at the lake is available May August 8: Vandalia Farmers’ Market. through mid-October.

August 22: Taste of Vandalia.

Ramsey Lake State Park, 12 miles north of the city, has more September 12: Vandalia Farmers’ Market. than 1,900 acres for hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, September 16: Wine and Ale with Abe. snowmobiling, camping, picnicking and more. There are shelters, October 28: Vandalia Halloween Parade. cabins and trailer spaces for rent. A small concession business is November 13, 14: Olde Tyme Christmas. located in the park.

December 4: Statehouse GALA. In addition, Vandalia has multiple day spas and Indian Springs December 12: Statehouse Christmas Open House.

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SPRINGFIELD: SANGAMON COUNTY

Springfield: Lincoln’s Hometown Offers World-Class Attractions pringfield, a vibrant and historic city, is Abraham Lincoln’s hometown, the capital of Illinois, as well as a stop along iconic Route 66. Filled with world-class sites and attractions, combined with a friendly small-town atmosphere, nowhere brings our beloved 16th president to life like Springfield.

Visitors will want to experience visiting Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site, the only home Lincoln ever owned, the one of a kind Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum and his final resting place at Lincoln’s Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Architectural enthusiasts can take in the breathtaking dome of the Illinois State Capitol and wander through the breathtaking Frank Lloyd Wright Dana-Thomas House.

Route 66 runs through the heart of town and offers a plethora of photo ops and interactions. Coming Spring 2020, visitors are welcome to take part in the “Living Legends” Experiential Passport adventure, meeting the actual legends at their businesses along the road. Visitors to Springfield may enjoy amazing cuisine, including the famous “horseshoe sandwich,” and relax at a local winery or brewery. A city motto is, “Springfield, We’re More Than One Day!” For more information about Springfield, visit www.visitspringfieldillinois.com, connect with us on Facebook and Instagram @visitspringfield or call 800-545-7300.

2020 Springfield Calendar of Events Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

April 4: Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon Old State Capitol, downtown Springfield. Run where Lincoln walked. So much history to be found in 13.1 miles. For more information, visit www.lincolnhalf.com.

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The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

May 8, 9: Fat Ass 5K & Street Party for Charity, downtown Springfield. Food, beer and entertainments along the race route, followed by a street party with BBQ & live music. All profits go to charity. For more information, visit www.fatass5k.com.

May 16, 17: Old Capitol Art Fair, Old State Capitol Plaza, downtown Springfield. Set against the backdrop of the Old State Capitol building, art lovers find this to be the jewel of the Midwest.

This tradition of fine art has brought artists and shoppers from across the country flocking for more than 50 years to this two-day outdoor art gallery. Free event. Visit www.socaf.org.

May 16: Springfield PrideFest, Capitol Avenue, downtown Springfield. Family friendly street festival celebrating the LGBT community and equality in our community. The event features a kids area, teen area, over 50 vendors, live music, food and drinks.

Free event. For more information, visit www.springfieldpride.org/.

June 7-12: International Carillon Festival, Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon. Concerts are held each evening except for Wednesday. Individuals and families are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner as well as lawn chairs and blankets. Fireworks on Friday. Free event. For more information, visit www.carillonrees.org/Events/Carillon-Festival.

July 30-August 1: Downhome Music Festival, 7th & Washington, downtown Springfield. The event will feature all local, original live bands (four stages with constant music), with gate proceeds directly benefiting the artists. There will be local food vendors, 100 different craft beers, as well as a kids area. For more information, visit www.downhomemusicfest.com.

August 13-23: Illinois State Fair, Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Enjoy 10 days of thrills and excitement at this family-friendly fair featuring world renowned concert artists, food, carnival rides, livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, contests, educational displays, free entertainment, harness racing, auto racing and much more.

For more information, visit www.illinoisstatefair.info.

September 25-27: 19th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival, downtown Springfield. More than 1,000 cool cars and 80,000 spectators will roll in for a weekend of family fun in the sun and non-stop live music and entertainment. Celebrate the golden age of Route 66 — the cars, the music, the food, the friends — all brought together along Illinois’ Route 66. Free to spectate.

For more information, visit www.route66fest.com.

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Knight’s Action Park: Where Fun Is A Family Tradition miss the high-speed fun of aking Memories has been a family tradition the Royal Flush. at Knight’s Action Park - now in its 90th year of fun. Knight’s is the place where fun rules.

Need a few moments to relax? Escape the summer With a dry park, water park, and endless outdoor enheat in our 400,000-gallon tertainment— including a twin drive-in theater — wave pool or float around Knight’s Action Park is Illinois’ leading destination for in our action river. You local family fun. can also navigate the lake At Knight’s Action Park, kids of all ages play and aboard a four seat Paddle practice all year. Knight’s offers a 50-tee driving range Boat. (including 10 heated tees), batting cages, arcade Have smaller children? games, and two miniature golf courses. The fun Check out our newest doesn’t stop there. Rev your engines and race on our Sprayground – built to GoKart track or Check out our newest Sprayground. have more accessible feadelight your famtures. Or let them enjoy Seal Bay and other kiddie play areas. At ily with fun at exciting heights Knight’s Action Park, there is something for everyone. aboard the Paratrooper and the Big Wheel.

Like movies? Watch current films throwback style at our Route During the summer months, 66 Twin Drive-In Theater. From April through September, the Route join us at Knight’s Action Park’s 66 Twin Drive-In shows double features on two giant screens.

Splash Kingdom. Checkout our Knight’s Action Park is located at exit Bermuda Triangle slide tower 96 off interstate 72 in Springfield. with three exciting and thrilling slides. Test your nerves on the A tradition for fun, excitement, hair-raising Devil Ray as you sports, games and entertainment, Knight’s Action Park speed down a nearly vertical inKnight’s Action Park welcomes guests synonymous with family fun. cline and backup again. Don’t of all ages to WHERE FUN RULES!

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PONTIAC: LIVINGSTON COUNTY

Pontiac: Much To Do While You ‘Get Your Kicks On Route 66’

t is a universally accepted fact that taking even a short vacation from daily stress will improve your quality of life. If you are looking for a day trip, a weekend get-a-way, or a major multiday road trip to recharge your batteries, Pontiac, IL, is the place to go. With something for everyone, you can’t go wrong in Pontiac.

For Route 66 heritage travelers, Pontiac is home to the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum. The museum houses a collection of images, artifacts, and stories about the nation’s most famous road. The museum are several displays related to internationally famous Route 66 artist and icon Bob Waldmire; including his “Road Yacht,” VW Microbus, and displays of artwork. Pontiac has been described as “A jewel of Route 66 preservation,” and we are proud to be sharing our “kicks on Route 66” with the national and international traveling public.

Prefer the great outdoors? Pontiac boasts 11 city parks on more than 100 acres including a championship disk golf course as well as a recreation complex with multiple baseball, football, basketball, tennis and sand volleyball courts, a playground and a dog park. The scenic Vermillion River flows through town and is crossed by three

swinging pedestrian bridges offering a unique view and experience (Pontiac is the only Midwest town to boast three swinging bridges.)

Just outside of city limits is the Humiston Woods Nature Preserve, which includes 335 acres of forest, 8 acres of prairie, and seven hiking trails.

For the art enthusiast, Pontiac has more than 25 large, colorful, outdoor murals created by an international group of artists known as the Walldogs. Seventeen miniature art cars are also scattered around the downtown sidewalks — each one decorated by a local artist or group. The Pontiac Community Art Center is a studio, teaching space, gallery and retail sales outlet for locally produced work. Pontiac is also home to the one-of-akind Museum of the Gilding Arts. Created by the international Society of Gilders, the museum focuses on the history, craft and art of using thin sheets of precious metal in design and décor. The Swift Collection, a recreation of a turn of the century gold leaf manufacturer, is also on exhibit.

Pontiac offers many opportunities to explore the past. Most famously, the city has many connections to our nation’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. From the historic Strevell House, to nine Looking for Lincoln wayside exhibits and a life-sized Lincoln statue, visitors can walk in Lincoln’s footsteps and learn more about this important historical figure. Historians will also find much to appreciate at the Livingston County War Museum. Staffed by veterans, this museum pays tribute to the men and women from Livingston County who served in the nation’s military since World War I. Pontiac Continued On Page 74

2020 Pontiac Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

May 2: Red Carpet Corridor Festival. Downtown.

May 2, 3: Swinging Bridges Fine Arts Festival. Downtown.

May 3: Lincoln, the Great Communicator. Eagle Performing Arts and Conference Center.

May 16: Cruise Night. Downtown.

June 5, 12, 19, 26: Mun. Band Concert. Humiston Bandshell.

June 6, 13, 20, 27: Farmers’ Market. Downtown Square.

June 6, 11, 18, 25: Summer Shindig. Humiston Bandshell.

June 20: Cruise Night. Downtown.

July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Rockin’ River Concert. Humiston Bandshell.

July 3: Fireworks. Pontiac Elk’s Club.

July 3, 10, 17, 24: Municipal Band Concert. Humiston Bandshell.

July 4, 11, 18, 25: Farmers’ Market. Downtown.

July 8-12: Vermillion Players Com. Theater. Chautauqua Park.

July 18: Cruise Night. Downtown.

August 1: Jolly Corks Wine Festival. Pontiac Elks Lodge.

August 8-11: Vermillion Players Summer Thr. Chautauqua Park.

September 3-7: Threshermen’s Reunion. Threshermen’s Park.

September 6: Threshermen’s Parade. Downtown.

Sept. 19, 20: GTOAA all Pontiac Cruise/Show. Downtown.

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LAKE SHELBYVILLE

Lake Shelbyville: An Outdoor Recreational Bonanza

ake Shelbyville and its communities offer great recreation, attractions, events, and accommodations for a day or for a vacation. Shelby County plays host to the southern twothirds of Lake Shelbyville and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Interpretive Center and offices. Lake Shelbyville was developed by the USACE in the 1960s and offers unlimited recreational opportunities for visitors.

Known for great fishing and hunting, there are hundreds of miles of shoreline, secluded coves and more than 11,000 acres of water to enjoy.

For hunters and naturalists, three designated wildlife management areas, totaling more than 6,800 acres, are located at the lake’s shores.

There are five federal and two state parks with camping and boat launches, as well as equestrian campsites.

Four public beaches, three campground beaches, plus numerous recreation areas offer picnic sites, pavilions, as well as playgrounds.

There are also more than 65 miles of trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts to enjoy.

Shelbyville’s Forest Park includes an aquatic center that offers something for everyone in the family, such as a zero-depth entry pool, diving boards, slides, concession stand and sandbox area. The park also offers picnic areas, pavilions, baseball and softball diamonds, a soccer field, athletic center, sunken garden, fishing lagoon and entrance into the General Dacey trail. The park also features the Chautauqua Auditorium, which is the largest of its kind in the United States.

Shelby County’s Findlay is known as “The Heart of Lake Shelbyville.” Moweaqua is home to the Coal Mine Museum, housing many artifacts from the 1932 Christmas Eve disaster. Cowden has one of five covered bridges in the state. Windsor’s Harvest Picnic is the longest running festival in Illinois. Strasburg is known for its adorable garden gnomes, and Stewardson delights with its “Hoofin’ to the Cow” 5K (cow attire welcomed but not mandatory), and its Lions Club Celebration. Shelby County’s three wineries provide an enjoyable experience.

The area hosts seven wayside exhibits telling the stories of Abraham Lincoln’s time here. Five of the stories are in Shelbyville, one in Moweaqua, and one very entertaining divorce case storyboard in Strasburg. Shelby County was awarded the first National Park Passport stamp as a Looking for Lincoln/Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area community. Visitors may stamp their passports at the USACE visitor center.

2020 Shelby County/Lake Shelbyville Events Dates are subject to change. Visit www.lakeshelbyville.com/calendar for details and updates.

June 5-7: Moweaqua Pow Wow Days. Moweaqua City Park.

June 6: Loop Lake Shelbyville. Dam East Recreation Area.

June 20: Kids Fishing Tournament. Opossum Creek Recreation Pond.

July 2-4: Herrick Celebration. Tom Davis Park.

July 4: Fireworks over Lake Shelbyville. Main Basin July 19-23: Shelby County 4H and Junior Fair. Fairgrounds.

July 24, 25: Findlay Walleye Festival. Downtown Findlay.

August 13-15: Windsor Harvest Picnic. Windsor City Park.

Visit www.lakeshelbyville.com for updated event listings, attractions and accommodations.

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JASPER COUNTY

Jasper County: The Perfect Corner Of Illinois To Enjoy The Embarras River, Parks, Shopping, Food And Antiques

mid all the hustle, the noise and stress of today’s world there is a little corner in southeastern Illinois where you can hang out and enjoy all the simple pleasures of country life.

Jasper County doesn’t have an interstate — closest one is 20 miles away, where Interstate 70 crosses I-57. The county doesn’t have traffic jams with honking horns and impatient drivers, but visitors can still be there in less than three hours from St. Louis, MO, four hours from Chicago and just over two hours from Indianapolis, IN.

First, book a room at the Cobblestone Motel in Newton, the county seat. Then pick up a green tourism brochure and a county map at the desk, so you can scope things out.

Newton doesn’t have a Super Walmart or a strip mall. Instead, you can walk the pretty Square and shop hometown businesses like the menswear store, Jasper Clothiers, or the Lafayette Street Boutique for ladies, or Rauch’s Jewelry, that also sells homemade fudge. There is also a real honest-to-goodness award winning hardware store, as well as antique shops with real antiques. Carr’s Antler Art is a must-see, and there are florists who create original arrangements “just for you.” Head down State Route 130 South and hit MBT’s This ’n’ That Shop. If Barb doesn’t have it, you probably don’t need it. Just a little further down the road is Farmhouse Consignment, which is a good spot to find gently-used clothing and household items — and there are lots of businesses in-between.

Stop in the library on the northeast corner of the Square, use the computers to catch up on news, then poke around the Jasper County Museum. Never know what you’ll find, including information on Jasper County natives Irene Hunt, children’s writer best known for historical novels, and Burl Ives, singer and actor of stage, screen, PAGE 72 | 2020 Discover Visitor & Vacation Guide To Central Illinois

radio and television. Walk across the street, sit down, share his bench (a life-sized statue of Ives sitting on a bench holding his guitar) and snap a picture.

Newton doesn’t have a big amusement park. However, it does have beautiful, shady Peterson Park on the Embarras River, with a reconstructed pavilion on the hill, super aquatic center, disc golf course, basketball and tennis courts, mini golf and a batting cage, lots of picnic tables and playground equipment. In addition, there are clean bathrooms and plenty of parking. It is a good place to put in or take out a canoe or kayak for a day’s float trip. And soon, the last phase of a walking/biking trail from Newton to Sam Parr State Park will be finished.

Sam Parr State Park, just northeast of town, offers a beautiful lake with Class A camping and a separate tent camping area right on the shoreline. Take a kayak, or rent a houseboat, fish, watch the eagles soar and just chill. As it starts to get dark, run down the road a mile or so, grab a sandwich, and watch a first-run movie at the locally-owned and state-of-the-art Drive ’N Theatre (a.k.a. Fairview Drive In).

Make sure to mark your calendar to attend the Jasper County Fair, the oldest running fair in Illinois, which takes place July 25-August 1, its 150th anniversary.

Newton Lake, in the southwest corner of Jasper County, has premier large mouth bass fishing year round. Bring your own boat, or work with local guide Tab Walker at the Outdoor Sportsmans Lodge. The lake also offers horse trails and picnic areas. Kuhl’s, a full service private campground, is close by for fun family camping. They both can help with good birding opportunities, on and around, the lake.

Jasper County offers outstanding birding, so bring your life list and find a few new entries at Prairie Ridge State Natural Area, or drive the back roads and keep your binoculars handy.

Hungry? We’ve got you covered with family-owned and operated eateries for every taste, including fast food or full service. The fried chicken buffets at the Filler Up Buffet can’t be beat. Ethnic food restaurants include China King, Puerto Vallarta and Joe’s Italian Foods & Pizza, run by the Cucinella family (can’t get more authentic than that). For a little something different, eat at Parklanes, where the pies are scrumptious, then do some bowling. Country eateries such as the Muddy Saloon; MVP Happy Holler, a full-service bar with a family atmosphere located on the Embarras River that features campgrounds, fishing, horseshoes, and live music; and

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The Hill in the Ste. Marie bottoms are always fun. If you’re a wine lover, keep heading east and hit Irene’s Vineyard for wine, food and scenery— it has it all.

Locally famous, the original Jasper County Porkburger is served at pop-up cookouts all over town. Dreamed up by the Hartrich’s family meat market in Ste. Marie, IL, and Larry Casey, you shouldn’t leave Jasper County without eating one.

Indeed, the Ste. Marie Cork and Pork Festival on July 11 is a good time to try some fabulous home grown/processed Jasper County pork foods, plus local wines and beers.

Each year, on Veterans Day, to honor those who have served, flags are placed on the square in Newton.

Check out the calendar of events and time your visit to hit one.

Enjoy the whole Jasper County experience — we want you to leave happy.

2020 Jasper County Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities. Please contact 618-783-3399 or 618-783-7188 for additional information.

March 16: Jasper County Chamber of Commerce Banquet.

Knights of Columbus Hall, Newton. Features Grove Men’s Choir and Citizen of the Year. For more information, call 618783-3399.

April 9: Irene Hunt Writer’s Workshop. Newton Public Library, featuring Eddie Price, regional historian and author. For more information, call 618-783-8141.

June 14: Pickin’ in the Park. Day of Oldtime music and family fun based on the Burl Ives music legacy. Food, music, all-day jamming. Peterson Park, Newton.

July 11: Ste. Marie Cork and Pork Festival. Full day of fabulous home grown/processed Jasper County pork foods, plus local wines and beers. Entertainment. All proceeds go to Jasper County organizations and projects.

July 18: Chamber of Commerce Jeep Run. July 25-August 1: Jasper County Fair. Come help celebrate the 150th anniversary of this Jasper County institution. Fairgrounds, Newton.

August 7: Chamber Cruise Night. Always a fun night. Cars, food, music. On the Square in Newton.

September 12: Fall Festival. Family day of food, fun and music. On the Square in Newton.

October 24: Scare on the Square. Bring your little (and big) ghosties and goblins to enjoy a safe, family friendly Halloween.

On the Square in Newton.

December 12: Christmas activities for a great day on the Square in Newton. Meet the characters from “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and see Santa.

meeting between Abraham Lincoln and U.S. Senator Stephen A. Douglas. Although no debate took place in Bement, the details for the Lincoln-Douglas Debates were agreed to in the parlor of this modest, yet comfortable structure.

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 Lincoln storyboard along the trail — bring pencil and paper.

Another famous American icon visited Bement, and that is Marilyn Monroe. Bement native Carleton Smith met Monroe when he was president of the National Arts Foundation in New York City. He urged her to travel to Bement to become a part of the village’s centennial celebration in 1955, which was put on

by Smith and the Bement Centennial Committee. During the celebration, American icon and Lincoln biographer Carl Sandburg also visited Bement.

Bement High School was one of the schools in the area to begin a new CEO Entrepreneurship Business Program. This program allows students the opportunity to learn first-hand about owning, creating and managing a business. Bement High School is partnering with four other school districts in this off-site program which is conducted throughout Piatt County.

Lake Sara: Lake Sara is an 800-acre recreational lake nestled into a wooded shoreline, encircled by a winding road. Also, visit nearby golf courses, Cardinal and Fore-Way, just minutes from the lake. For more information, visit www.visiteffinghamil.com.

Dr. Charles M. Wright House: The Dr. Charles M. Wright House in Altamont, IL, was built in 1889. The 18-room mansion is now a museum that features original furnishings, including carpets. The doctor’s surgery room, nursery and library are highlights of the tour. The museum is open by appointment. For a tour, call 618-483-6397. Visit www.wrightmansion.org.

Monastery Museum: The Monastery Museum in Teutopolis, IL, is a window into the history of the settlers of the Teutopolis region and the Franciscans who ministered to them. The museum houses antique bibles, hand-scribed books, furnishings, clothing, toys and elaborate documents that offer a glimpse into the past.

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 30 years and produce award winning ceramic art, as well as functional stoneware pottery designed for everyday use. A restored dairy barn houses their working studios and gallery with a selection of pottery pieces for sale. For more info, visit www.fryepottery.com.

Bement: Continued From Page 47

“Motor heads,” as car enthusiasts are affectionately called, will appreciate another one-of-a-kind museum: The Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum and Resource Center. With classic Oaklands and cool Pontiacs, this is the only museum dedicated just to these two automobile brands. The museum is also home to one of the largest collections of oil cans and antique road maps around.

Just want to be entertained? Visit the Eagle Performing Arts and Conference Center. The Eagle, located in the nostalgic downtown Pontiac: Continued From Page 70

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Effingham: Continued From Page 58

district, offers dinner theater, concerts, conferences, receptions as well as other special events. Or check the Pontiac event calendar for many outdoor music and theatrical events each summer. While in downtown, take time to explore the unique shops and boutiques, bakery and coffee shops, restaurants, and a wine tasting, too.

To learn more about Pontiac, visit www.visitpontiac.org, or call the Pontiac Tourism office at (815) 844-5847. The tourism office will help with planning a trip unique to your interests, making sure you have the stress-free vacation you deserve.

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