FR
EE
A publication of Iroquois County’s
ANDREW TOFTOY, MD ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
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(815) 802-7090
1490 E Walnut St, Watseka, IL 60970
400 Riverside Drive, Suite 1600, Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Iroquois Economic Development Association We love it here in Iroquois County. We’re sure you will, too! The Iroquois Economic Development Association (IEDA) is a local group of business leaders who work tirelessly to improve the quality of life and to expand the economic opportunities for Iroquois County residents. As a non-profit corporation, IEDA can offer help, with no cost whatsoever for their services, to local businesses wanting to expand and remain in our county. At the same time, they also work aggressively to attract new retail, service, and manufacturing companies to show them why Iroquois County is a great place to start up or expand a business. IEDA offers a variety of financial incentives that can be quite helpful to new, expanding, or relocating companies. The association’s supporters and board of directors boasts a large group of diverse and experienced educators, bankers, business owners, and local government leaders from every corner of the county. Ken Barragree is the executive director of IEDA. Iroquois County is in an excellent loca-
tion with short drives and open roads from Champaign, Bloomington, Lafayette, Danville, Chicago, Peoria, and Indianapolis. The county is 60 miles south of Chicago and 30 miles north of Champaign-Urbana with easy access to several good highways. Illinois 1 & US 24 meet and transit thru Watseka, the county seat, and Interstate 57 crosses north/ south through the county as well and passes near several progressive communities. Iroquois County offers a rich mixture of agriculture, business and manufacturing among stable, rural communities. The county has many growing small to medium size businesses and takes great pride in being one of the most progressive and productive agricultural areas in the entire country. New businesses considering Iroquois County as a place to grow will be very encouraged by the solid contingent of ready and able workers with good old fashioned rural-based work ethics and solid family values. IEDA representatives are available to assist
IEDA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KEN BARRAGREE any local employer wanting to grow or any new company considering locating in Iroquois County. There are numerous buildings and site opportunities available in Iroquois County. Email ida@co.iroquois.il.us or call 815-432-0072 to talk about some of those locations. For more information, visit our website at http://IroquoisEDA.com or follow us on Facebook at IEDA4Jobs.
Work with a Top Producer for ALL your Real Estate Needs in Iroquois County
Find Your Dream Home... McColly.com Sandy Boyer | 815.471.6612 | Anne Carney | 815.383.0447 Sandy@lawyerboyer.com Anne.Carney@mccolly.com Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
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Iroquois County chambers of commerce
Iroquois County Chamber of Commerce
Watseka Area Chamber of Commerce
Onarga Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 13 219 N. Central St. Gilman, Illinois, 60938
110 S. Third St. Watseka, Illinois, 60970
P.O. Box 44 Onarga, Illinois, 60955
815-432-2416
815-268-4888 lizkid1@hotmail.com
iroquoiscountychamber.com
815-265-4818 iroquoiscountychamber@gmail.com Mission statement: “Iroquois County Chamber of Commerce is a catalyst for our members, promotes business and economic development in our region.” Board of directors: Jamie Eden, president; Zach Price, vice president; Heather Kocher, secretary; Sarah Schoon, treasurer; Katie Canada, Kyle Leydens, Melinda Thorsten
watsekachamber.org
Mission statement: “To promote the economic, civic and social well-being of the people in the Watseka area, and conduct activities for the direct or indirect benefit of its members and the larger community.” Executive director: Amanda Hibbs Board of directors: Bob Burd, president; Ryan Bell, vice-president; Andrew Arie, treasurer; Cody Fredrick, treasurer; Susan Wynn Bence, Brian Chaney, Sarah Combes, Kevin Hack, Alex Knapp, Cathy Molck, Jeff Petersen, Jeff Raboin, Stacey Smith, Carla Waters, Bill Wilczynski
SNAP-EBT and ALL Food Assistance Programs Accepted
onargachamber.com
The Onarga Chamber of Commerce Mission Statement: “Our main objective is to help in economic growth of Onarga and the Onarga Township with continued effort to create a social well being of our community.” Board of directors: Randy Lizzio, president; open, secretary; Domi Garcia, treasurer
– at – Mary’s Emporium of Watseka
132 West Walnut, Watseka, IL 60970
The store that offers A WEE BIT of everything!
We presently have 20 Vendors - each adding their own special touch to the store We offer In-date as well as Salvage Groceries at prices that will stretch your shopping dollars
– Some Items you will see –
Groceries & Candy Fishing Rods & Reels Home Decor Phone Accessories Jeans Health & Beauty Supplies Rock T-Shirts Holiday Merchandise CDs and DVDs Small Appliances Bird House & Benches School Supplies 5 Gallon Buckets Laundry Detergent Pet Food, Treats & Supplies (Merchandise is always changing.) The store is run by a Mother and Son Team - Cheryl & Brian Herriott and They are Looking Forward to Seeing You!
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Family owned & operated since 1967
1043 S. Crescent St., Gilman, IL 60938
815-265-7310
HOMEMADE PIES, BREAD AND COOKIES
HOME COOKING
Daily Specials! Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Iroquois County library and park districts Library districts Central Citizens’ Library President: Robert Lemenager Vice president: Wanda L. Thompson Treasurer: Scott Senffner Secretary: Lavonne K. Gillespie Trustees: Ann Blase, David Schafer, vacancy
Gilman-Danforth District Library
Cissna Park Community Library District President: Larry Hofbauer Vice president: Lynn Hasselbring Treasurer: Lois Steiner Secretary: Elaine Young Trustees: Charles R. Alt, Jennie Seggebruch, Emily Tuttle
Clifton Public Library District
President: Victoria L. Shell Vice president: Carol LeClaire Treasurer: Julie Kolosky Secretary: Jill Rieken, Trustees: Nicole Brough, Vacancy, Sara Faulkner
President: William Stahlschmidt Vice president: Judith Pree Secretary-treasurer: Sharon Newman Trustees: Cindy A. Guttendorf, Janice Villwock, Jill BrockmanCummings, Janet Elliott
Hoopeston Public Library District President: Tony Hasbargen Vice president: Lori Eells Treasurer: Lawrence B. Jahn Secretary: Janet B. Crouch Correspondence secretary:
Sharlyn Miller Trustees: Rita Carter, Wayne King
Loda Township Library President: Rebecca Jones Vice president: Patricia Hamby Secretary: Gayle Lemenager Treasurer: Nancy Johnson Trustees: Kay Houtzel, Susan Sawyer, Beckie Green
Milford District Library President: Gene Ochs Vice president: Amy Crawford Secretary: Naomi Christensen Treasurer: James Reutter Trustees: Rita Moenck, Jeanne VanHoveln, Deborah Handy
Onarga Community
Public Library District
President: John Bank Vice president: Jennifer Cook Treasurer: Ray Smith, Secretary: Susan Wells Trustees: Robert E. Zirkle, Maureen Kietzman, Laura DuFrain
Sheldon Public Library District President: Kevin G. Hamrick Vice president: Loreli Just Treasurer: Suzanne Light Secretary: Vickie Webster Trustees: Vacancy, Sharon Knisley, Chuck Smith
Watseka Public Library Director: Rose Gilman, Rhonda Pence, Troy Simpson, John Tonner, Debi Custer, Kris Lundquist, Richard Dickte, Kay Johnson, Brian Hasbargen,
Beth Warren
Park districts Douglas Township Park District President: Jay Kuipers Vice-president: Vacancy Secretary: John Smith Commissioners: Kevin Bull, Mark McTaggart
Milford Township Park District President: Jan Lavicka Commissioners: Wyatt Alt, Sarah Rosenberger Secretary: Gloria Schleef
Watseka Park District President: Todd Oster, Vice president/treasurer: Rich Moyer Secretary: Dawn Turcany Commissioners: Don Pavlak, Mark Howe
Iroquois County summer community events June
Milford Fun Days — third weekend in June Crescent City Fireball — third weekend in June 2020 Buckley Fun Day
July Onarga 4th of
July Celebration — July 3-4 Watseka 4th of July events — July 4 Clifton Fun Days — July 12-13 Iroquois County Fair — July 17-22 Loda Good Ole Days Truck and
Tractor Pull — last weekend in July
August Sheldon Fun Days — third weekend in August Cissna Park’s Old Settlers — third weekend in August
Jeff McMillan, LUTCF 815-265-4037
Gilman • Piper City • Chatsworth • Cullom • Bourbonnais
www.mcmillanins.com
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Ashkum Homecoming — last weekend in August Gilman’s Old Boys and Girls Celebration — Aug. 13-16, 2020
September St. Mary’s Founders Day in Beaverville
— Sunday after Labor Day Gilman’s Super Saturday — Second Saturday in September Chebanse Homecoming — third weekend in September Cissna Park’s Pumpkins in the
Park — fourth weekend in September
October Step, Stand, Salute Character (traveling mobile exhibit) in Watseka — Oct. 18-20
Gilman Fertilizer Co. 108 S. Main St., Gilman, IL
815-265-4506 Page 5
Iroquois County school districts Public Schools
Iroquois County Regional Office of Education 189 East Court Street, Suite 600, Kankakee, 60901; 815- 937-2950 www.i-kan.org Regional superintendent Dr. Gregg Murphy Assistant superintendent Frank Petkunas Iroquois Special Education Association 106 E. Front St., Gilman 60938; 815-683-2662 Director - Nicole Bullington
Donovan Community Unit School District #3 PO Box 186, Donovan 60931 www.donovanschools.org Superintendent Toby Coates School board members - Joe Schultz, Dave Munson, George Wisniewski, Kelly Frey, Chris Brown, Brian Gouwens, Eric Schmidt Donovan Elementary School (K-6): 2561 East US 52, Donovan Principal - Toby Coates, 815-4867321 Donovan Jr./Sr. High School
(7-12): 600 North Street, Donovan Principal Andrew Jordan, 815- 486-7397 Central Community Unit School District #4 203 N. Third St., Ashkum; 818-698-2212 www.cusd4.org Superintendent Tonya Evans School board members - Paul Swanson, Doug Seibring, Aaron Shule, David Luhrsen, Kevin Hack, Troy Meier, Lisa Beherns Ashkum Early Literacy Center (PreK) - 203 N. Third St.,
Ashkum; 815-698-2212 Chebanse Elementary School (K-4) - 475 School Street, Chebanse; 815-697- 2642 Principal Andrea Lemenager John L. Nash Middle School (5-8) 3100 North Central School Road, Clifton Principal Victoria Marquis Central High School (9-12) 3100 North Central School Road, Clifton Principal - Marc Shaner Cissna Park Community Unit
School District #6 511 N. Second St., Cissna Park; 60924; 815-457-2173 cpschool.org Superintendent Dr. Dan Hylbert School board members - Bud Petry, Mark Wilkening, Ashleigh Verkler, Michael Kaeb, Jason Edelman, Brent Neukomm, Kristina Phelan Cissna Park Elementary School (K-5) - Principal Bethanie Marshall Cissna Park Junior High School (6-8), Cissna Park High School (9-12)
- Principal - Mark Portwood Iroquois County Community Unit School District #9 1411 W. Lafayette St., Watseka, 60970 815- 432-4931 www.watseka-u9. k12.il.us Superintendent Interim School board members - James Bruns, Sarah Combes, Gina Greene, Rebecca Wittenborn, Brittany Cluver, Rusty Maulding, Kirk McTaggart Nettie Davis Elementary School (K- 1) - 495 N. Fourth St.,
Dennis & Darin Clatterbuck Owners
Office 815.432.6105 Fax 815.432.6107
227 W. Walnut Watseka, IL 60970
cctireauto@sbcglobal.net
Tires – Complete lines Brake Repair A/C Service Oil Change Service Alignment & Suspension Service Electronic Diagnostics and Tune Up On The Farm Tire Service 815-889-4140
Craig Luke, Karen Ervin, Amy Thomas, Nancy Crawford, Jeanie Tweedy, Rod Burgett
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Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Iroquois County school districts Watseka; 815-432- 2112 Principal - Heather Gerth Wanda Kendall Elementary School (2-4) - 535 E. Porter Ave., Watseka; 815- 432-4581 Principal - Dawn Garner Glenn Raymond Junior High School (5-8) - 101 W. Mulberry St., Watseka; 815-432-2115 Principal - James Bunting Watseka Community High School (9-12) - 138 S. Belmont Ave., Watseka;
815-432-2486 Principal Carolyn Short Iroquois West Community Unit School District #10 529 E. Second St., Gilman 60938 815-265-7241 wp12.iwest.k12. il.us Superintendent — Interim School board members - Dave Haase, Anthony Miller, Adam Vice, Rodger Bennett, Norma Classen, Amy Schunke, Clint Perzee Gilman Elementary School (K-3) - Principal Jim Harkins
Danforth Elementary School - Principal Ashley Carlson Iroquois West Upper Elementary School (4-5) Principal Christina Duncan Iroquois West Middle School (6-8) Principal Duane Ehmen Iroquois West High School (9-12) - Principal Joshua Houberg CrescentIroquois Community Unit School District #249 600 South Street, Crescent City, PO Box 190, Crescent City 60928;
815-683- 2141 ccgshawks.net Superintendent Interim School board members - Steve Massey, Tim Kollmann, Jody Niebuhr, Becky Dirks, Candi Butzow, Brock Johnson, Christi Pheifer Crescent City Grade School (K8) Principal - — The high school age students within the district can choose to go to Cissna Park High School, Iroquois West High School or Watseka Community High School.
Milford Area Public Schools District #124 208 S. Chicago St., Milford 60953; 815-889-5176 www.mpsk12.org Superintendent Michele Lindenmeyer School board members - Mary Ronna, Mindy Hagan, James Kunce, Justin Lavicka, Jeff Mabbitt, Donna Hiltz, Mark Tweedy Milford Grade School (K-8) - 100 S. Chicago St., Milford 60953 Principal - Michelle Sobkoviak Milford High
School (9-12) 124 W. Jones St., Milford 60953 Principal Steve Totheroh
Private schools
Zion Lutheran 160 W. Concordia Dr. Chebanse 60922 St. Paul Lutheran 108 W. Woodworth, Milford 60953 St. John Lutheran 206 E. Main, Buckley 60918 Christ Lutheran High School 201 W. Lincoln, PO Box 8, Buckley 60918
WATSEKA PARK DISTRICT
110 South Third, Watseka, IL 60970 815-432-3931 www.watsekaparks.org
Programs for all age and skill levels
931 S. Crescent U.S. Hwy. 24, Gilman, IL
815-265-4635
www.thegathering.com
Homemade Fudge Daily Lunch Specials Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
• Holistic Classes • Adult Cardio Classes • Youth Soccer • Youth Basketball • After School Program • Toddler Program • Entertainment Programs • Birthday Party Packages • Summer Camps • Much, much more
Find Your Watseka Park District Where Fun Begins Page 7
ASHKUM President of the board: Paul G. Heideman, 2021 Village clerk: Donna K. Schmitz, 2021 Village treasurer: Krystal Alberts, appt. Trustees: Russell L. Hull, 2021; Shannon Meier, 2021; Angie Gray, 2021; April Lyons, 2023; Edward F. Tholen, 2023; Jeremy J. Beherns, 2023
Ashkum, named after a Potawatomi chief, has Illinois State Police District 21 within its borders.
www.wgfaradio.com
www.wibkradio.com Page 8
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
BEAVERVILLE President of the board: Kathleen M. Hoover, 2021 Village clerk: Stacey Lareau, 2021 Village treasurer: Leslie Drummer, appt. Trustees: Michael T. Emerson, 2021; Dave Martell, 2021; Lori Arseneau, 2021; vacancy, 2023; Joyce Arseneau, 2023; Maggie Duby, 2023 St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Beaverville, built in 1909, is known as the “Cathedral of the Cornfields” and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We’re putting peace of mind in range. Dick Arie
When you are looking to insure your auto, home, farm, crops or commercial business give us a call or stop by. We will work with you to find the best insurance to suit your needs.
Iroquois County Historical Society Andrew Arie
Old Courthouse Museum 103 W. Cherry St., Watseka, IL 60970 815-432-2215
Located 1 block south of Rts. 1 and 24 on the corner of Cherry and Second St.
Calendar of annual events
Choose from these well-known companies:
Travelers - Progressive - Grinnell Allstate - Mercury Farmers Mutual Hail - RCIS
(call for dates & times)
April - Last Sunday
50+ Golden Wedding Anniversary Celebration
June/July
Garden Faire Farmer’s Market every Wednesday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
October Harvest Daze Oct. 4-5-6 First full weekend Harvest Daze
December 108 E. Oak St. Watseka
815-432-4208 Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Christmas Tree Lane Christmas House Gallery ichs221567@yahoo.com
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BUCKLEY President of the board: Sheree L. Stachura, 2021 Village clerk: J C Biggs, 2021 Village treasurer: Julie Schuldt, appt. Trustees: Becky Weisenbarn, 2021; Peggy Shockley, 2021; Keith Hartke, 2021; Ardell Goetting, 2023; Ernie Hoopingarner, 2023; Shane Stachura, 2023
The Dutch Masters, an EIE League baseball team, is one of the oldest consectutively playing teams in the league, and its Scheiwe Field is in Buckley.
CHEBANSE President of the board: Jason J. Mathy, 2021 Village clerk/treasurer: Julie Pasel, appt Trustees: Philip J. Snyder, 2021; Jennifer Odle, 2021; Darrin Kohler, 2021; Nichole Randles, 2023; Todd Perzee, 2023; Adam Beherns, 2023
“Chebanse” means “the little duck” in Potawatomi, and its 4-H club has taken on the name “Little Ducks”.
Kunce’s Sales & Service Plumbing • Heating & A/C 30 S. West Ave., Milford, IL 60953
1.815.889.4454
Jim 1.815.471.4961 Brad 1.217.722.6307 Ryan 1.217.722.9671
Page 10
Customer Service Is Our #1 Priority Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
CISSNA PARK President of the board: Chad Verkler, 2021 Village clerk: Valerie D. Dannehl, 2021 Village treasurer: Douglas Bauer, appt. Trustees: Kody Egolf, 2021; Chad Geiken, 2021; Paul Hess, 2021; Brian Moser, 2023; Doug Luecke, 2023; Elen M. Yergler, 2023
Cissna Park, named after William Cissna who donated the land for the community’s park, has its annual Old Settlers Days, which is one of the oldest consecutively conducted events in the state.
CLIFTON President of the board: Andrew Winkel, 2021 Village clerk: Shannon James, 2021 Village treasurer: Sandra Tammen, Appt. Trustees: Christopher Sifrit, 2023; Randy Gigl, 2023; Tracy Mitchell, 2023; Joseph Kolosky, 2021; Mark Benscoter, 2021; vacancy, 2021
Clifton residents have landscaped a “greenway” that runs along the railroad track in town to continue to beautify the village.
Designer Homes by Gullquist Construction
Iroquois County Genealogical Society 103 W. Cherry St. Watseka, IL 60970
Phone 815-216-1108 Office Phone/Fax 815-889-5160
Troy Gullquist
Owner
www.gcdesignerhomes.com email- info@gcdesignerhomes.com find us on Facebook and Instagram Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Phone: 815-432-3730 Email: iroqgene@gmail.com Friend us on Follow our Blog: oldcourthouse.blogspot.com
WEB: http://www.iroquoiscountygenealogy.org Page 11
CRESCENT CITY President of the board: Mark Rabe, 2021 Village clerk: Charlene Schleef, 2021 Village treasurer: Carolyn Rapp, Appt. Trustees: Catherine Crego, 2021; Steven M. Carley, 2021; Kim Rabe, 2021; Dennis Ritzma, 2023; Scott Dirks, 2023; Jim Sorensen, 2023
Crescent City made national news on Fathers’ Day of 1970 when a freight train derailed setting off a series of explosions in the business district and near residences in town.
DANFORTH President of the board: Larry L. Decker, 2021 Village clerk: Gerald H. Rieken, 2021 Village treasurer: Angela Lunt, Appt. Trustees: Kyle Gray, 2021; Luke Perzee, 2021; Gene Glenn, 2021; Greg Schroeder, 2023; Brian Tiarks, 2023; Bill Oster, 2023
The land that became Danforth was wet, swampy land and Hollanders were invited to help work the land as they would in their own country.
Iroquois Title Company Established 1863
ABSTRACTS - TITLE INSURANCE - CLOSINGS
Phone: (815) 432-4929 Our Business Is To Serve Your Real Estate Needs
101 East Cherry Street Watseka, Illinois 60970
Watseka Public Library
201 S Fourth St.
815-432-4544 phone 815-432-4545 fax
Watseka, IL
www.watsekalibrary.org
Mon, Tues 10am-8pm Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-2pm
Appreciating the Past, Anticipating the Future
Fax: (815) 432-6019 - E-Mail: iroqtitle@maxwire.net - www.iroquoistitle.com
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Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
President of the board: Ken Ward, 2021 Village clerk: Holly Ward-Collins, 2021 Village treasurer: Donna Arseneau, Appt. Trustees: Lorin DePatis, 2021; Megan Parks-Webster, 2021; Adam Whitson, 2021; LouWonna Snodgrass, 2023; Andrew Norder, 2023; Mitch Arseneau, 2023
DONOVAN
The Donovan area was heavily settled by Swedish immigrants and the church offers several festivals honoring the Swedish traditions.
GILMAN Mayor: Rick Theesfeld, 2021 City clerk: Susan Morris, 2021 City treasurer: Sheila Johnson, 2021 1st Ward aldermen: Michael McGehee, 2021; William (Bill) D. Kraft, 2023 2nd Ward aldermen: Steven Fancher, 2021; Fred B. Voigt, 2023 3rd Ward aldermen: John Elliott, 2021; Randy Eimen, 2023
A better way to bank.
Gilman is one of two Iroquois County communities to be incorporated as a city. It sits at the junction of U.S. 24 and 45 and major railroads.
Iroquois - Main office (815) 429-3337
Gilman (815) 265-4707
Ashkum (815) 698-2346
Sheldon (815) 429-3331
Beaverville (815) 435-2036
Watseka (815) 432-4198
www.iroqbank.com
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Page 13
IROQUOIS President of the board: George Runkle, 2021 Village clerk: Edward Armold, 2021 Village treasurer: Jacqueline Scurlock, 2021 Trustees: John Uildriks, 2021; Gary L. Strahl, 2021; Randy Luecke, 2021; Gary Scurlock, 2023; Joseph E. Vaughn, 2023; Troy Martin, 2023
In 1822, fur trader Gurdon Hubbard set up a post near what is now Iroquois and farmed 80 acres calling the site Bunkum. This is the first modern development in Iroquois County.
We are Agriculture Loan Specialists!
FIRST STATE BANK OF FORREST Established 1914 Member FDIC
A Strong Friend for Your Family 113 E. Krack, Forrest, IL (815) 657-8248 115 N. Chestnut, Onarga, IL (815-268-7351 603 W. Oak, Fairbury, IL (815) 692-4321 www.firststatebankofforrest.com Page 14
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
LODA President of the board: Carol J. Arseneau, 2021 Village clerk: Regina Ptacek, 2021 Village treasurer: Myles Reck, Appt. Trustees: Cathy Tittle, 2021; Joyce Gharst, 2021; Patricia Allen, 2021; Jon Boone, 2023; Gene Breeden, Jr., 2023; Rhonda R. Breeden, 2023
Loda has one of the five National Register of Historial Places in Iroquois County: The A. Heer and E.E. Smith Public Library, a public library which dates back to 1858.
Fertilizers & Herbicides Custom Spraying
220 N. Clark St. Sheldon, IL
815-429-3015 Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Washington St., Onarga, IL
815-268-4428 Page 15
MARTINTON President of the board: Joe Lafond, 2023 Village clerk: Patricia Butler, 2023 Village treasurer: Michael Butler, Appt. Trustees: Dewana (Dawn) Brault, 2021; Chad Nesselrodt, 2021; Cory Butler, 2021; John Dutour, 2023; Jeffrey Webster, 2023; Bruce Langellier, 2023
Martinton’s original name was “Martinburg”. There was already another community named “Martinburg”, and it was renamed in 1875.
MILFORD President of the board: David Mara, 2021 Village clerk: Tricia Huff, Appt. Village treasurer: Mary Ann Kelly, Appt. Trustees: Ernest L. McKay, 2021; Fred L. Hines, Jr., 2021; Cory D. Birch, 2021; Randy Buhrmester, 2023; Kevin Woodby, 2023; Adam Clutteur, 2023
Milford, settled in 1830, was once the county seat and home of the Iroquois County Fair. It was the home of Jessie Sumner, the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress.
Route 45 South, P.O. Box 309 Gilman, IL 60938 800-424-0756 fifb@sbcglobal.net
Your Legislative Voice For Agriculture Page 16
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
ONARGA President of the board: Shane Cultra, 2021 Village clerk: Stephanie Von Drehle, 2021 Village treasurer: Claudia Ramirez, Appt. Trustees: Donald Fred Walraven, 2021; Holly Zirkle, 2021; Cole Rabe, 2021; Russell Geisler, 2023; Angie Martinez (Ballard), 2023; Sarah Barnett, 2023
Onarga, named after a Native American chief’s daughter, is the home of Allan Pinkerton, who was once in charge of President Abraham Lincoln’s safety as a founder of a detective agency that was the precursor of the Secret Service.
PAPINEAU
President of the board: Michael Johnson, 2021 Village clerk: Stacy Charbonneau, 2021 Village treasurer: Teresa L. Gash, 2023 Trustees: Dale Emerson, 2021; Jay Salm, 2021; Robert Jackson, 2021; Nicholas McFatridge, 2023; Randy Bowers, 2023; Myron Munyon, 2023
Papineau was named for a French Canadian patriot who led an unsuccessful rebellion against the British in 1838.
Iroquois Cafe Iroquois, IL
815-429-9098
Attorneys at Law
STROUGH & DODDS
• Daily Noon Specials Except on Saturdays • Serving a Complete Menu & Weekend Specials • Steaks, Burgers, Wings, Fish and more Open 7am-Midnight 7 days a week Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Dale Strough
Samantha Dodds
Page 17
SHELDON President of the board: Jeffrey Mabbitt, 2021 Village clerk: Leslie Banning, 2021 Village treasurer: Susan Eastburn, Appt. Trustees: Nicole Harris, 2021; Joel Davenport, 2021; Scott Demarse, 2021; Jason Jackson, 2023; Bill Milan, 2023; vacancy, 2023
There is a memorial marker along U.S. Route 24 noting the settlement of Jesse Eastburn, Sr., whose family was the first to settle in the area in 1832.
WE BELIEVE
IN OUR COMMUNITY.
IROQUOISFED.COM MEMBER FDIC
Page 18
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
THAWVILLE President of the board: Brenna Hildenbrand, 2021 Village clerk: Casandra Jacobs, 2021 Village treasurer: Judy A. Wilson, Appt. Trustees: Robert Lange, 2021; Shawn Fuoss, 2021; Rachel Zick, 2021; Elizabeth Wilson, 2023; Eric Warlow, 2023; Paul Tjarks, 2023
Thawville is the boyhood home of Andy Freehill, author of “The Ontology of the Living Deity”.
Sugar Creek Boutique
GILMAN AUTO PARTS KRAFT, INC.
512 South Crescent Gilman, Illinois 60938
Phone: 815-265-7737 “We Service & Repair All Makes And Models”
Affordable Teen, Women’s & Children’s Apparel & Accessories
100 East Lyle Street • Milford, Illinois (217) 304-6386
Tues, Wed & Fri 10AM-5PM; Thu 10AM-7PM; Sat 9AM-1PM; By Appt. - Contact Karen
Furnishing homes in and around Iroquois County for over 40 years. YOUR HOME FOR APPLIANCES, FLOORING, FURNITURE, SEALY MATTRESSES, AND SCHROCK CABINETS 234 N. Jefferson, Watseka, IL
815432-5448
M-F 8:30am-6pm; Sat. 8:30am-4pm Closed Sun; Other times by appointment
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Page 19
WATSEKA
•Local Ownership •Local Decisions •Financial Strength
D & D CARPETS Owners: DONALD & JUDY BRINKMAN Mgr. Donald Brinkman
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-5 Saturday 9-12 Evenings by Appt. Only
We’ve been your community bank since 1909!
Looking to plant your own roots? Visit our Mortgage Center Online:
ftsbank.com>Home Mortgage Application
(Free pre-approvals, check rates, personal assistance, variety of loan programs available.) Let us LEND you a helping hand!
145 East Fifth Avenue Clifton, IL 815-694-2329
Page 20
120 East Walnut Street Watseka, IL 815-432-2494
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
WATSEKA
JOHN ALLHANDS
AMANDA HIBBS
CAROLYN DELAHR
BRANDON BARRAGREE
MARK GARFIELD
DENNIS CAHOE
DONALD MILLER
DAVE MAYOTTE
BENNY MARCIER
MONNA ULFERS
DARRIN RUSHBROOK
Mayor: John Allhands, 2021 City clerk: Amanda Hibbs, 2021 City treasurer: Carolyn DeLahr, 2021 1st Ward aldermen: Brandon J. Barragree, 2021; Mark Garfield, 2023 2nd Ward aldermen: Dennis Cahoe, 2021; Donald L. Miller, 2023 3rd Ward aldermen: Dave Mayotte, 2021; Benny Marcier, 2023 4th Ward aldermen: Mary “Monna” Ulfers, 2021; J Darrin Rushbrook, 2023
Watseka was named after Princess Wat-ch-e-kee, an Indian woman who had married Gurdon Hubbard, who is named as the first white settler in what is now Iroquois County. The area was incorporated in 1867. It is located at the junction of U.S. Route 24 and State Route 1, and it is almost the physical center of the county. It’s the largest city in the county and has become the county seat. It also is the home to the county’s historical society and genealogical society within the county’s museum, the Old Courthouse Museum. The old courthouse and the Old Union Depot are two of the five places within the county listed on the National Registry of Historical places. Today, the city hosts several annual festivals and makes use of the Watseka Theatre, a 1931 art deco structure. It has a chamber of commerce and an active park district. Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
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WELLINGTON President of the board: Ronald Cappellano, 2023 Village clerk: Jane Powell, 2023 Village treasurer: Michelle Herd, Appt. Trustees: Kenneth Case, 2021; Tyson Shreeves, 2021; Ray Langellier, 2021; William Bruens, 2023; Darrin Brewster, 2023; Raymond Puffenbarger, 2023
Wellington is among the youngest communities in Iroquois County, organized in 1903, though it was laid out in 1872.
WOODLAND President of the board: Eric J. Morales, 2021 Village clerk: Lori Dodson, 2021 Village treasurer: Robin Bohlmann, Appt. Trustees: Kathy Edwards, 2021; Joshua Hoy, 2021; Jamie McGahan, 2021; Alice Huffman, 2023; Dustin Styck, 2023; Amy Martin, 2023
Woodland is known for having a large number of trains pass through, and those that stop, their conductor often gets a drink next to the post office.
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Iroquois County cemeteries
Name of cemetery — Township
Amity — Lovejoy Apostolic Christian — Fountain Creek Apostolic (original) — Fountain Creek Arseneau — Beaverville Ash Grove — Ashkum Ashkum – Ashkum Assumption — Ashkum Barden — Danforth Baron — Papineau Beaver — Beaver Beaver Creek — Papineau Beckwith — Onarga Belmont — Belmont Berg — Martinton Bickel-Yates — Ashkum Body — Belmont Bookless — Concord Bowsher — Beaver Brown Hill — Papineau Carson — Danforth Caveny — Iroquois
Chamberlain — Middleport Chebanse — Chebanse Chess — Ash Grove Cissna Park — Ash Grove Clifton — Chebanse Courtright — Concord Crozier — Middleport Danforth Lutheran — Danforth Darby — Ash Grove Davis — Onarga Del Rey — Onarga Driftwood — Milford Eastburn — Concord Engelbracht — Ash Grove Enslyn — Concord Evans, Thomas — Martinton Evergreen — Belmont Evergreen — Chebanse Fairview — Belmont Flesher — Iroquois Floral Hill — Lovejoy Frame — Onarga Gaffield — Concord Garrett — Middleport GAR (Grand Army) — Middleport
Gilman — Douglas Glenwood — Ash Grove Grant, J.H. Memorial — Beaver Greenridge — Douglas Greentown — Martinton Hatfield — Middleport Henry —Loda Immanuel Lutheran — Ash Grove Indian Burial Ground — Artisia Iroquois Memorial Park — Belmont Jefferson Point — Onarga Johnson — Crescent Jones — Papineau Julian — Sheldon Keen — Belmont Kirby — Danforth L’Erable Catholic — Ashkum Leckie — Loda Lehigh — Onarga Liberty — Concord Lisk — Artisia Lister — Sheldon Longshore — Belmont
Lyman — Middleport Magee — Middleport Maple Grove — Milford Milford Old Town — Milford Milk’s Grove — Milks Grove Mormon/Benson — Artisia Morris Chapel — Concord Mt. Olivet — Martinton Mud Creek — Ash Grove Nilson — Milford Oak Hill — Middleport Oak Ridge — Papineau Old Burg — Martinton Old Middleport — Middleport Old Milford — Milford Old Texas — Concord Onarga — Onarga Pangburn — Onarga Papineau — Papineau Pickerell Mill — Milford Pierce/Pearce — Iroquois Pine Ridge — Loda
Pineview — Belmont Pitch-In — Ash Grove Prairie Dell — Concord Prairie Mound — Ash Grove Prairie View — Crescent Quaker — Ash Grove Reformed Church — Danforth Roberts — Middleport Rosenberger — Milford Rothgeb — Milford St. John’s — Artisia St. John’s Lutheran — Ash Grove St. John’s Baptist — Ashkum St. John Lutheran — Danforth St. Joseph — Papineau St. Mary’s — Douglas St. Mary — Beaverville St. Mary & Joseph — Chebanse St. Paul Lutheran — Ash Grove St. Peter’s — Chebanse St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran — Crescent Schroeder-Gierke —
Martinton Schwer — Ash Grove Sheldon — Sheldon Sherrill — Middleport Spence — Ashkum Sturdevant — Ash Grove Sugar Creek — Stockland Swedish — Beaver Tegge — Martinton Thawville — Ridgeland Thomas — Milford Trinity Lutheran — Ash Grove Troup — Middleport unknown mound — Martinton Vennum — Milford Washington — Middleport Webster — Concord Wenger — Douglas West Watseka — Middleport Whiteman — Concord Wilson — Iroquois Wilson-Yates — Ashkum Woodland — Artisia
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Iroquois County’s polling places Artesia — Township Building, 104 W. Main, Buckley Ash Grove — Township Building in Woodworth, 1492 E 1000 North Rd, Milford Ashkum I — Community Building Ashkum Coliseum, 117 East Main St., Ashkum Ashkum II — Catholic Church Hall, 2700 N and 1500 E, L’Erable Beaver — Township Hall, West Third Street, Donovan Beaverville — Village Hall, 110 W. Chapel, Beaverville Belmont I — Woodland Village Hall, East Main Street, Woodland Belmont II — American Legion House, 968 S. Fourth St., Watseka Belmont III — American Legion House, 968 S. Fourth St., Watseka Chebanse I — Clifton Com-
munity Building, 350 N. 4th St., Clifton Chebanse II — Chebanse Community Center, 185 S. Chestnut St., Chebanse Concord — Town Hall, 104 W. Lincoln, Iroquois Crescent — Crescent City Community Center, 301 Main St., Crescent City Danforth — Community Center, West Jefferson St, Danforth Douglas I — City Hall, 215 N Central St., Gilman Douglas II — FordIroquois Farm Bureau Building, 1381 S. Crescent, Gilman Fountain Creek — New Township Building, 200 N and 1660 E Iroquois — Community Center, 301 E. Main St., Crescent City Loda - Village Hall, East
Washington Street, Loda Lovejoy — Fire Department Building, East Main Street, Wellington Martinton — Fire House, 2800 North Road, Martinton Middleport I — Watseka City Hall, 201 Brianna Dr., Watseka Middleport II — Unit 9 School Unit Office, 1411 W. Lafayette, Watseka Middleport III — First Christian Church, 546 N. Sixth St., Watseka Middleport IV — Father Davern Parish Center, 217 E. Locust, Watseka Milford I — Milford Christian Church, 811 East Hickory, Milford Milford II — Community Center (Old Depot), 15 S. West Ave., Milford Milks Grove — Milks Grove Center, 3000 North 200 East,
Clifton Onarga I — Onarga Christian Church, 721 W. Seminary Ave., Onarga Onarga II — Onarga Christian Church, 721 W. Seminary Ave., Onarga Papineau — Fire Station, 100 E. Taylor, Papineau Pigeon Grove — Village Hall, 109 W. Church St., Cissna Park Prairie Green — Fire Station, 300 North and 2800 East Ridgeland — Iroquois West Upper Elementary School, 106 County Road, Thawville Sheldon I — Community Center, 140 S. 4th. Sheldon Sheldon II — Community Center, 140 S. 4th. Sheldon Stockland — Town Hall, 856 North 2845 East, Stockland
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Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Iroquois County officials Appointed county officials include EMA director Eric Ceci, highway engineer Joel Moore, supervisor of assessments and zoning administrator Bob Yergler, finance manager Amanda Longfellow, probation supervisor Barb King, public health department administrator Dee Schippert, animal control administrator Hany Youssef, maintenance BARB supervisor Chris Drake, 9-1-1 director Eric KING Raymond, and county board assistant Laci Kissack.
ERIC CECI
JOEL MOORE
ERIC RAYMOND
HANY YOUSSEF
BOB YERGLER
DEE SCHIPPERT
CHRIS DRAKE
JIM DEVINE
LISA HINES
BILL CHEATUM
The Iroquois County elected officials are County Clerk and Recorder Lisa Fancher, Gilman; County Treasurer Kurt Albers, Martinton; County Sheriff Derek Hagen, Watseka; Circuit Clerk Lisa Hines, Cissna Park; States Attorney Jim Devine, Watseka; KURT Coroner Bill Cheatum, Watseka. ALBERS
AMANDA LACI LONGFELLOW KISSACK
DEREK HAGEN
LISA FANCHER
The 21st Judicial Circuit Court (Third Appellate District) of Iroquois and Kankakee counties has general duties provided by statute and make up part of the Illinois Court System. The judges serving in Iroquois County Courts are James Kinzer and Michael Sabol. The bailiffs are Donnie King, John Burch and Roger Lebeck. The court security officer is Kurt Westerfield.
For more information or to schedule a visit,
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www.hw-watseka-slf.com 577 East Martin Avenue • Watseka, Illinois 60970
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
MICHAEL SABOL
JAMES KINZER
KURT WESTERFIELD
JOHN BURCH
ROGER LEBECK
DONNIE KING
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Iroquois County Board The Iroquois County Board is made up of 20 members, with one member chosen by the board to be chairman of the board. There are four districts with five members elected from each district. The chairman of the board is John Shure. The vice chairman of the board is Lyle Behrends. The full board meets at 9 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the administrative center, 1001 E. Grant St. in Watseka.
JOHN SHURE
LYLE BEHRENDS
BARBARA OFFILL
CHAD MCGINNIS
CHARLES ALT
DONNA CROW
ERNEST CURTIS
JED WHITLOW
JOE YOUNG
JOHN ZUMWALT
KEVIN BOHLMANN
KEVIN COUGHENOUR
LEANNE DUBY
MARVIN STICHNOTH
SHERRY JOHNSON
STEVE HUSE
MICHAEL MCTAGGART
PAUL BOWERS
PAUL DUCAT
ROGER BARD
Sheldon Public Library District
125 N. Fifth St.
Sheldon, IL
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M-W-F 1-6:30pm Tu-Th 10am-6:30pm Sat. 10am-3pm Proudly celebrating 102 Years 1917-2019 Page 26
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
Iroquois County Fact Book 2019
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Iroquois County Fact Book 2019