STOPS ON Historic Highway 20

YYou may only know Highway 20 as the US federal highway that runs east-west, nearly unencumbered, through Stephenson County. However, before the Ulysses S. Grant US Highway 20 was constructed to bypass our cities and attractions, travelers used to wind through beautiful scenery and bustling downtowns on Historic US Highway 20.

History of the Highway

Route 20 came to northwest Illinois in 1926 following the adoption of the US Highway System - an effort to have a uniform system of numbering highways. The number 20 signified that it was a transcontinental highway with the “zero” and, since it was an even number, signifies it was an east-west route. Highway 20 followed two previously named auto trails that led from Iowa to Chicago - the AYP (Atlantic Yellowstone & Pacific Highway) and the Grant Highway. Two names that still remain with that route in parts of Freeport and Stephenson County.

The road had already been paved by 1924 to the Jo Daviess County line through Stephenson County and became a popular route for travelers and commercial traffic. However, with the pavement, the route also became dangerous and hazardous as traffic increased. By the 1960s, The construction of interstates 80 and 90 proved to relieve some of the traffic that had used Route 20. Still considered a dangerous section of roadway, a proposal to widen Route 20 in Northwest Illinois was announced in the 1960s and was completed from Rockford to Freeport in 1972. Then the Freeport bypass was constructed from 1985-1988.

The Things you Bypass

While much of the modern four lane exists on the original alignment of 20 to Freeport, old highway 20 follows Business 20 through downtown Freeport. Also known as Galena Avenue, the highway passed industrial and commercial centers, neighborhoods, retailers, gas stations and the core of the community. However, as visitors and travelers seek out these iconic destinations, revitalization and renewal follow.

As Business 20 enters the east side of Freeport, the route is now known as Yellow Creek Road, part of the original alignment of Highway 20. Another detour from the current alignment of existing Highway 20 occurs at West Salem Rd just west of Eleroy. The previous highway traveled north of the train track and traveled through Eleroy.

Historic Route 20 is a national non-profit that aims to raise the profile of the communities and historic sites along the original 1926 alignments of US Route 20. This organization works with communities like Freeport and Eleroy to reclaim the historical treasure that existed when road trips were about the journey, not just the destination. For more information or to plan your trip on Historic US 20, visit historicus20.com mMidwestern weather can be fickle and always a topic of conversation with temperature swings and long bouts of precipitation. However, it’s all about perspective! In Freeport and Stephenson County we have learned to take each season in stride for the opportunities it brings and have suggestions for you to help make the most of your visit in any season.

Spring

After the freeze thaws and snow has melted away, the birds return to their natural surrounds and there are new spaces to explore as they reemerge from winter hibernation. Enjoy the return of colors at Oakdale Nature Preserve and the Butterfly Sanctuary in Orangeville. Spring also signifies the return of events and special features such as Pretzel Fest and Pretzel City Winefest in downtown Freeport and many musical showcases by Highland Community College. The farmer’s markets return in May bringing a freshness to our palate as well. Museums and specialty shops extend from their winter hours and all are welcome to enjoy the returning hours of daylight.

Summer

In a region known for outdoor activities, there is always something to do in the summer! Mark your calendars for a number of special events in every small town and attraction. Parks and recreation areas are a great place to meet with friends or enjoy the quiet solitude. We have such an appreciation for the outdoors that we find any opportunity to take the entertainment outside. Many restaurants establish special sections for outdoor dining and live entertainment, concerts move to the Freeport Art Plaza and Krape Park bandshell and special family events fill park shelters. We take advantage of every hour of summer’s light from quiet sunrises to brilliant sunsets.

Fall

If you aren’t excited about the heat that often comes with summer, chances are you relish the fall! As school resumes and vacation season comes to an end, the weekends become even busier with events and activities. Be sure to catch the “Cadillac of small town festivals” with Lena Fall Fest the weekend afer Labor Day and the award-winning, Pretzel City Brewfest, at the end of September. The tree-lined streets of Stephenson County cities and towns are vibrant with life and the color of the season.

In a region still heavily enriched with agriculture, fall is not just about a changing season, but also holds hope for a safe and happy harvest season. Stephenson County is a large producer of corn and soybeans as well as pork, beef and dairy. In fact, Stephenson County is the second largest dairy producer in Illinois! While you enjoy the beauty of the changing leaves and cooler temperatures on your skin, you will also witness the hard work of our proud local farmers in vast farm fields and pastures.

Winter

The only thing dormant about winter in Freeport and Stephenson County is that bestowed by nature! There is plenty to see and do during the colder months both indoors and outdoors. Holiday shopping never looked and felt so good as supporting locally-owned boutiques and retail shops before settling in for an amazing cocktail or local craft brew. The colder temps also have us craving great meals and warm spaces which is the perfect time to try wonderful restaurants throughout the area that light up the tastebuds on the dreariest day.

But even winter provides its own beauty and lure to the outdoors! Grab a sled and head to Krape Park for the best sledding in town. Try your hand at ice skating at rinks in Freeport, Lena and Pearl City or cross country skiing in Oakdale, Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park, or the Jane Addams Trail. Even a hike along these paths will bring a rosy glow to your cheeks and refreshed spirit.

There is never a bad time to visit Freeport and Stephenson County! With a diversity of activities and attractions, Your sense of adventure or relaxation can be found right here. In any season of the year, or season of life, we make the best of every day and invite you to do the same.