A Summary of French Influence in Illinois.

While Cahokia was undoubtedly a significant center of French colonial life in early Illinois, several other villages and settlements thrived beyond its shadow, each with unique stories and contributions to the state's rich history.

French explorers ventured into the Illinois county of Virginia as early as the 17th century, lured by tales of fertile lands and abundant resources. By the late 1600s, permanent settlements began to take root, driven by the fur trade, missionary zeal, and the quest for agricultural and mineral wealth.

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The state of Illinois became Païs des Illinois (Country of Illinois), when Virginia ceded their County territory in 1778.

 

Early French Settlements

The town of Kaskaskia, Illinois, was founded in 1703. Jesuits established The village as a missionary post and developed it into a French trading post and farming community. Kaskaskia became the capital of French Illinois and a bustling hub for fur trade and agriculture. Jesuit missionaries established a strong presence, and the town boasted a vibrant cultural scene with music, theater, and celebrations.

The village of Prairie du Rocher was founded in 1722; nestled along the Mississippi River, it became known for its skilled farmers and artisans. Residents cultivated wheat, corn, and tobacco and crafted furniture, tools, and other goods. The community also hosted a vital salt trade.

Prairie du Rocher Cemetery. Note the Iron Crosses Grave Markers.

Fort de Chartres was constructed in 1718 between Kaskaskia and Cahokia. This fort served as the French military and administrative center in the region. It played a crucial role in defending against British incursions and overseeing trade routes. The nearby village of St. Anne, established in 1720, grew alongside the fort, with French residents supporting the military engaged in farming and fur trading.

Fort de Chartres Gatehouse. Climbing the 18-foot-high gatehouse provided a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Village Life and Culture

French colonial architecture had a different building process. Homes were typically built with poteaux-sur-sol (post-on-sill) construction, featuring square-hewn logs and covered porches. This style contrasted with the standard unhewn log cabins among American settlers.

Examples of Poteaux-Sur-Sol Construction:

Cahokia Courthouse, 107 Elm Street, Cahokia, Illinois.

The Martin-Boismenue House, East Carondelet, Illinois.

French villagers relied heavily on farming, raising crops like wheat, corn, and vegetables. They also kept livestock, hunted, and fished, ensuring a degree of self-sufficiency. They engaged in lively trade, exchanging goods with Native American tribes and other European settlements. The fur trade was significant, with furs shipped to New Orleans down the Mississippi.

Strong Community Bonds

The Catholic faith played a central role in village life, with churches serving as social and cultural centers. Residents celebrated holidays and festivals together, fostering a strong sense of community.

Challenges and Transformations

The outcome of the French and Indian War (1754-1763) led to the cession of French territory east of the Mississippi to Britain, significantly impacting French village life in Illinois. Many residents relocated to Spanish Missouri, while others adapted to British rule.

The American victory in the Revolutionary War in 1783 brought about another transition, with Illinois becoming part of the United States. French villagers gradually integrated into American society, preserving their cultural traditions while adapting to new political and social realities.

The French Legacy

The legacy of French village life in Illinois continues to be celebrated and preserved through Historic sites. Many French villages, like Kaskaskia and Prairie du Rocher, are designated historic landmarks, showcasing their original architecture and way of life. Festivals and celebrations like the Prairie French Festival in Prairie du Rocher keep French traditions alive through music, dance, and food.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.