5 minute read
Places to Explore History in Bureau County
The Owen Lovejoy Homestead in Princeton was a stop on the Underground Railroad, making it a fascinating place for history lovers to check out in the Illinois Valley.
FILE PHOTO/SCOTT ANDERSON
Places to Explore History Places to Explore History in Bureau County in Bureau County
By Shannon Serpette
Bureau County has a rich and well-documented history, and while the good old days may be gone, they can still be felt and revisited at a number of locations throughout the county. Whether you live in the county or are merely passing through, there’s a fascinating spot and some historical tales that are sure to leave you thinking about days gone by.
The historical feel was one of the reasons David Cook chose to move to Princeton when he was home shopping years ago.
“One thing attracting me to Princeton was the sense of history throughout the city. It’s not just the historical sites, either – you can experience it by walking along the brick streets under the big oak trees while admiring grand, old homes, or see it in the faded advertisements painted on the buildings along Main Street, and even in the parks,” Cook said.
Here’s a round-up of some historical spots to check out in Bureau County, but beware, this
See HISTORY page 10
History
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isn’t a comprehensive list. One stop will likely lead to another as you uncover more interesting facts you never knew.
THE VARIOUS HISTORICAL SOCIETIES IN BUREAU COUNTY
Historical societies are a great spot to start for any history buff, and you’ll find several in Bureau County. One obvious starting point is the Bureau County Historical Society, located in Princeton, where the historical society’s Interim Director Lex Poppens will be glad to help people find what they’re looking for. The Bureau County Historical Society’s headquarters is at the historical Clark-Norris home, and its research library is located next door in the Newell-Bryant House.
“If I have to choose an official site (as a favorite historical spot in the county), it’s difficult to decide between the Bureau County Historical Society Museum, which encompasses so much, and the Owen Lovejoy Homestead because of what it represents,” Cook said.
Many of the smaller communities in the county have their own historical societies, which celebrate their highlights and offer exhibits showcasing relics of the past.
“Tiskilwa has a really interesting facility,” Poppens said.
OWEN LOVEJOY HOMESTEAD
The Owen Lovejoy Homestead, located in Princeton, was a former stop on the Underground Railroad. Reverend Owen Lovejoy lived in the house from 1838 until he died in 1864. Shortly before Lovejoy moved to Princeton, Owen’s abolitionist brother, Elijah, had been killed by a pro-slavery mob.
The Colton School is also located on the homestead property, giving kids and adults a fascinating peek into what the world of education used to look like.
OAKLAND CEMETERY
Cemeteries provide an interesting glimpse into the past, and Oakland Cemetery’s history is well-noted.
“The cemetery was recently put on the National Registry,” Poppens said.
The National Register of Historic Places designation isn’t a surprise for people who know about the history of Oakland Cemetery. Dating to the 1800s, it was named because of the plentiful oak trees on the property. Visitors can see the trees, winding paths, and impressive monuments.
SOLDIERS AND SAILORS MONUMENT
Poppens also recommends checking out the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Princeton.
“It’s the town square,” he said.
The monument serves as the focal point of a beautifully maintained park. While it’s a tribute to those who fought for the country’s freedom, the monument is gorgeous and a work of art all on its own.
THE CHERRY MINE MUSEUM
The Cherry Mine Museum, located in Cherry, has original artifacts from the infamous mine disaster in 1909 that claimed the lives of 259 men and boys.
“I went there last week because I had never been,” Poppens said. “There’s a wonderful relief of the whole event. It’s huge. It’s the size of a whole office.”
RED COVERED BRIDGE
A highly photographed site, the historic Red Covered Bridge, built in 1863, makes the onlooker feel as if they’ve stepped into a time machine.
“To me, it’s really cool that it’s not only a functioning bridge, but well-maintained as well,” Poppens said. “It’s a signature spot for Princeton.”
THE BUREAU COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
The Bureau County Genealogical Society, located in Princeton, is an excellent place to take a deep dive into the county’s rich history. The records on hand can help anyone looking for information or who wants to study local history, Poppens said.
They offer assistance to those searching through records, and they have a wide assortment of information, including death and marriage records and much more.
FILE PHOTO/SCOTT ANDERSON
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