The Illinois, aka Illiniwek & Illini: A Chronicle of Power, Demise, and Women's Roles.

The narrative of The Illinois, aka Illiniwek or Illini, unfolds like a saga, etched against the backdrop of the Illinois country. Once a thriving confederacy, they rose to prominence, endured hardship, and ultimately witnessed the decline of their civilization. This interwoven account incorporates various threads, traversing from their early encounters with Europeans to the internal dynamics of Illiniwek society, with a particular focus on women's crucial role.

MEETING OF MARQUETTE AND JOLLIET WITH THE ILLINIWEK TRIBES.

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The Illinois  is pronounced as plural: [The Illinois'] was a Confederacy of Indian Tribes consisting of the Kaskaskia, Cahokia, Peoria, Tamarais (Tamaroa, Tamarois), Moingwena, Mitchagamie (Michigamea), Chepoussa, Chinkoa, Coiracoentanon, Espeminkia, Maroa, and Tapouara tribes that were of the Algonquin family. They spoke Iroquoian languages. The Illinois called themselves "Ireniouaki" (the French word was Ilinwe). All the tribes seemed to work together without issue. 

Our story commences with the Grand Village of La Vantum, a bustling metropolis teeming with 6,000 Illiniwek inhabitants. Nestled strategically along the Illinois River, this community thrived. The French explorers Marquette and Jolliet emerged as the first Europeans to set foot in La Vantum in 1673. Chief Chassagoac welcomed the newcomers warmly, exemplifying the Illiniwek's peaceful nature. This initial contact began a complex relationship between the Illiniwek and the Europeans, ultimately reshaping their history.

Before European arrival, the Illiniwek Confederacy, a powerful alliance of Algonquian-speaking tribes, dominated the region. However, the arrival of French missionaries and fur traders in the 17th century ushered in a period of immense change. The Illiniwek, unfortunately, bore the brunt of these transformations. Warfare and the introduction of diseases by the Europeans wreaked havoc on their communities. By the 1830s, a once-mighty confederacy had been reduced to a single village, their ancestral lands ceded to appease European encroachment. The Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma stands today as the sole remnant of this formidable people.

Illinois Confederation

However, a closer look at the Illiniwek's history in the late 17th century reveals a more nuanced narrative than one of mere decline. Recent scholarship challenges the portrayal of the Illiniwek as a weak and passive people as depicted in early French accounts. Instead, evidence suggests they were a formidable force, strategically leveraging bison hunting and the slave trade to bolster their power. This revisionist perspective underscores the importance of decentering European narratives and foregrounding the agency of Indian groups in shaping their destinies.

A pivotal event that tragically altered the course of Illiniwek history unfolded in the village of La Vantum in 1680. A brutal massacre orchestrated by the Iroquois tribe left an indelible scar on the Illiniwek people. The Iroquois, harboring animosity towards the Illiniwek, descended upon La Vantum, unleashing a torrent of violence. French explorer Tonti, residing in the village alongside a contingent of priests and soldiers, became embroiled in the conflict. The Iroquois, mistaking the French for Illiniwek allies, subjected Tonti to torture. The massacre also claimed the lives of two priests, Fathers Gabriel and Zenobe. Countless Illiniwek people perished in the onslaught, while the survivors were forced to flee, forever displaced from their homeland.

To fully comprehend the Illiniwek Confederacy, we must delve into its foundation – the constituent tribes. The Peoria, Kaskaskia, and Cahokia were just a few prominent groups that united under the banner of the Illiniwek. Interestingly, the name "Illiniwek," signifying "the men," originated from their own designation. Upon encountering this powerful alliance, French explorers bestowed upon them the name Illinois, a moniker that has endured. The arrival of Marquette and Jolliet in 1673, the voyage etched a path down the Mississippi River, marked a significant chapter in the annals of European-Illiniwek interaction.

The narrative is complete by acknowledging women's critical role in Illiniwek society. While Illiniwek women were not traditionally involved in hunting or warfare, their contributions were essential. They shouldered the responsibility of gathering food, nurturing children, and managing the domestic sphere. Their influence extended beyond the household, as some women served as shamans and actively participated in specific ceremonies. Marriages within Illiniwek society adhered to a gift-giving system, and women possessed the remarkable right to divorce their husbands. Although societal norms placed men in a position of higher authority, Illiniwek women wielded considerable power within their designated domain.

The Illiniwek saga, a tapestry woven with threads of triumph and tribulation, stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit. From their initial encounters with Europeans to the internal dynamics of their society, their story offers valuable insights into a bygone era. By delving into the complexities of their history, we gain a deeper appreciation for the Illiniwek people and the indelible mark they left on the landscape of North America.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Elias Kent Kane was a key figure in the constitutional convention that drafted Illinois' constitution in 1818.

Elias Kent Kane left a lasting mark on the state of Illinois. Born in New York City in 1794, Kane pursued a legal education at Yale University. Shortly after graduating, he ventured west, finding himself in Nashville, Tennessee, for a brief period before moving on to Kaskaskia, then the capital of the Illinois Territory, in 1814. Kane's arrival proved fortuitous as he was quickly elevated to a territorial judge position, marking the beginning of an influential political career.

As Illinois moved toward statehood in 1818, Kane was a central delegate to the state's constitutional convention. He became a key figure in shaping the state's fundamental laws and earned the nickname "Father of the Illinois Constitution." In the same year, Kane was appointed Illinois' first Secretary of State. Ever ambitious, Kane won election to the United States Senate in 1824, serving as a Democratic senator until his untimely death in 1835.

Elias Kent Kane is buried in Evergreen Cemetery, at 501 West Holmes Street, Chester, Illinois, in the Kane family plot. The cenotaph[1] monument is located at the Congressional Cemetery at 1801 East Street SE, Washington, D.C., which was erected in Kane's honor because he died while serving in office as a United States Senator from Illinois.

Throughout his political career, Kane remained engaged in Illinois affairs and wielded power as part of an influential political faction. While not without controversy, his work helped to lay the foundations of government in the newly established state. Kane's legacy includes Kane County, Illinois, formed in his honor a year after his passing. Though initially buried in a family cemetery, Kane's remains were later reinterred in Evergreen Cemetery, Chester, Illinois. A cenotaph[1] stands in his honor at Washington's Congressional Cemetery.

Early Life and Career

Born: June 7, 1794, New York City

Education: Graduated from Yale College in 1813

Initial Career: Briefly practiced law in Nashville, Tennessee, before moving to Kaskaskia, Illinois Territory in 1814. He was appointed as a territorial judge almost immediately.

Move to Illinois: Relocated to Kaskaskia, Illinois Territory in 1814 and was quickly appointed a territorial judge.

Role in Illinois Statehood

Constitutional Convention: A pivotal delegate to the 1818 convention that drafted the Illinois State Constitution.

First Secretary of State: Kane held the first-ever position as Secretary of State of Illinois from 1818 to 1824.

U.S. Senate: Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1824, serving from 1825 until he died in 1835. He was reelected in 1831.

First Secretary of State (1818-1824): Kane held the first-ever position as Secretary of State of Illinois.

U.S. Senator (1825-1835): Elected as a Democratic-Republican (later Jacksonian Democrat) to the U.S. Senate, where he served for two terms.

Political Views and Legacy

Democratic Party: A member of the Jacksonian Democratic Party.

Advocate of Internal Improvements: Kane championed infrastructure development in Illinois, supporting projects like the Illinois and Michigan Canal.

Land Policy: Played a significant role in shaping land policy in Illinois.

Kane County: Though he never lived within its borders, Kane County, Illinois, was named in his honor in 1836.

Jacksonian Democrat: Kane was a strong supporter of President Andrew Jackson.

Advocate of Internal Improvements: Kane championed infrastructure development in Illinois, supporting projects like the Illinois and Michigan Canal.

Controversial Figure: His political alliances and dealings made him a somewhat controversial figure. Some historians argue he used his positions for personal and political gain.

Death and Burial

Died: December 12, 1835, in Washington, D.C., at age 41.

Burial: Initially interred in a family cemetery, then reinterred at Evergreen Cemetery, Chester, Illinois.

Kane County, Illinois: The county is named in his honor.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

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[1] A cenotaph is a monument built to honor a person or group of people whose remains lie elsewhere. The word comes from the Greek "kenos taphos," meaning "empty tomb."

Springfield, Illinois, Town Square Conflagration of May 15, 1855.

From the May 16, 1855, Chicago Tribune:

The sun this morning rose upon a scene in Springfield, the like of which has never before been witnessed here. More than half the block of stores on the west side of the square, commencing from the north, was in ruins, and the goods and furniture not destroyed, were scattered about mainly on the state house square, presenting further evidence of the melancholy catastrophe. This great destruction was, without question, the work of an incendiary. 

North side of Springfield town square, Washington Street, c.1855.

West side of Springfield town square, 5th Street, c.1855.

The fire was kindled among some boxes near one of the buildings, and such was the dry state of all the material about that the buildings immediately caught fire, which was not arrested until nine stores and one or two other buildings of less consequence were consumed.

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The Public Square in Springfield is bound by Adams, Washington, Fifth and Sixth Streets. It was created on paper in December of 1823.

The following is a list of the sufferers: ($1.00 in 1855 = $35.00 in 2023)

• Clark & Henkle, a clothing store, was insured for $5,000 ($175,000 in 2023) in Northwestern and $1,000 in Mohawk Valley. Loss estimated at $6,000. House owned by Johnson & Bradford, insured for $1,500.

• Thayer & Co., dry goods merchants, stock of goods valued at $17,000, insured for $8,000—saved goods to the amount of $10,000 or $12,000 in the wrong order.

• Canedy & Johnson, druggists, insured on stock and fixtures $6,500, on house $2,500. Loss estimated at $9,000. P.C.Canedy's dwelling was saved by the most persevering efforts; back buildings with the house on the west torn down. House and furniture, which are considerably damaged, were insured.

• R.H. Reach's clothing store insured $5,000. Loss of about $2,000.

• Irwin & Davis, dry goods merchants, insured on goods $5,000, no insurance on the house. Loss estimated at $6,000.

• A. Freeman & Co., dry goods and grocery merchants, no insurance either on house or goods. Loss estimated at $8,000.

• Spear & Brothers, dry goods merchants, insured $3,000 on goods, no insurance on the house. Loss of about $4,000.

• Dr. Harper's office, Brimm's law office, and a barber's shop, over Freeman's books, papers, etc., mostly saved; Loss estimated at $200.

• Springfield Coffee House, owned by William H. Camp, had no insurance. Loss of about $2,000.

• Bradford & Johnson's Book Store, bindery etc., the house owned by N.W. Edwards; insurance for $700. Inventory insured for $3,500; loss of about $1,800.

• Clark's Exchange Bank, which was fireproof, arrested the fire on the south, but for which, the whole block on the west side of the square would have been laid in ashes.

• As it went west, the fire's progress was arrested at Mr. Canedy's dwelling house. S.B. Fisher's store, on the north side of the square, while the fire was raging, was discovered to be on fire in the second story. It was soon extinguished, doing but minor damage.

The present is a very appropriate occasion to draw the attention of our city authorities to the necessity of providing more efficient means than they have yet done for the extinguishment of fires.

— Springfield (Ill.) Journal

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Abraham Lincoln's Government Job at New Salem, Illinois.

Postmaster Lincoln

1860 Portrait of Abraham Lincoln by Leopold Grozelier.

The appointment of Abraham Lincoln as Postmaster of New Salem, Illinois, on May 7, 1833, was his first recognition by the general public. The fact that his political faith was not in harmony with the administration then in power must have assured him that he had gained the goodwill of all his neighbors. Following his election as a captain in the Black Hawk War and the very complimentary vote he received as a candidate for the legislature, this honor proved that he had the faculty of making friends. This was a fundamental qualification if one were to succeed in pioneer politics.

While the appointment as Postmaster did not come to Lincoln as a political favor for contributing to the party's success, then directing the affairs of the government, the position did afford him some exceptional opportunities for paving the way toward his own political success. He learned the entire population of that part of old Sangamon County, which later became Menard County. He was usually the first to make the acquaintance of new settlers who sought out the post office, that one point of general contact and information known in pioneer days.

The privilege of reading the newspapers and periodicals that came to the post office was of greater value than the purely local associations. It gave him a more comprehensive reading than most citizens in the county and allowed him to keep advised on all sides of any public question. I recently discovered in the Morgan County courthouse at Jacksonville, Illinois, the record book of the Postmaster at that place, which gives us a better knowledge than we had had before of the many journals in circulation in the state when Lincoln was Postmaster at New Salem. This old record book gives the titles of the papers and magazines and the names of the subscribers who received the publications between October 1831 and December 1832. Lincoln might be called a contemporary of the Jacksonville postmaster. His term of office began five months after the filing of these records. On the back cover of the old book is this citation: "Samuel Hill for two letters 37½¢." Hill was the Postmaster whom Lincoln succeeded at New Salem. As Jacksonville and New Salem were not more than thirty-five miles apart, it is reasonable to conclude that most of the publications which went through one post office were circulated through the other.

Mail arrived at the New Salem Post Office once a week, delivered on a route that ran from Springfield, IL, to Millers Ferry, IL. If addressees didn't collect their mail at the Post Office, which was customary, Lincoln delivered it personally — usually carrying the mail in his hat.

Lincoln received compensation of $55.70 ($1,931 today) in the fiscal year 1835. Besides his pay, Lincoln could send and receive personal letters free and get one daily newspaper delivered for free. Lincoln served as Postmaster until the office closed in May 1836.

About $18 ($590 today) was left in the New Salem Post Office's coffers when it closed in 1836, so Lincoln held onto the money. When a government agent later visited Lincoln to collect the funds, the future President, who was financially strapped then, retrieved the money from a trunk and presented it to the agent.

EARLY PUBLICATIONS

The following publications were delivered by the Postmaster of Jacksonville, Illinois, to subscribers residing in Morgan County, Illinois, between October 1, 1881, and December 31, 1832. The names of the subscribers and the amounts of postage they paid are listed with the title of the publication in a book in the archives of the Morgan County courthouse:

Alarm, Beardstown Chronicle, Bibical Repository, Boston Recorder, Casket, Christian Advocate, Christian Messenger, Christian Watchman, Cincinnati American, Evangelist, Farmers Chronicle, Focus, Gospel Herald, Home Messenger, Illinois Herald, Home Missionary, Journal of Commerce, Kankawn Banner, Kentucky Gazette, Kentucky Reporter, Ladies Book, Lexington Observer, Liberal Advocate, Louisville Focus, Louisville Post Advertiser, Marietta Gazette, Millenial Harbinger, Missionary Reporter, Missionary Herald, Missouri Republican, National Intelligencer, National Preacher, New York Observer, New York Optic, New York Post, New York Spectator, Niles Register, Ohio Patriot, Old Countryman, Palmyra Central, Philadelphia Evening Post, Plough Boy, Presbyterian, Revivalist, Sangamon Journal, Southern Advocate, Spirit Pilgrims, Standard, St. Louis Republican, St. Louis Times, Sunday School Banner, Sunday School Journal, Susquehana Democrat, Tennessee Herald, Theology, Vandalia Whig, Wayne Sentinel, Western Luminary, Western Pioneer, Youth's Friend. 

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

The Rumors of the Todds being Disappointed in Mary's Choice of Abraham Lincoln for her Husband, Debunked.

A recurring controversy among Lincoln biographers has been the precise relationship between Lincoln and the aristocratic family of his wife, the Todds of Kentucky. Many writers have suggested that the family was disappointed in Mary's choice of a husband.

That image is contradicted in a letter written by Mary's father, Robert Smith Todd, in March 1844, some sixteen months after their wedding. In the letter, printed below, Todd shows that he was not only well informed of the ambitions of his son-in-law but approved of them and offered to use his influence to "procure some appointment . . . Such as District Attorney of Judge."

The letter concerns the only lawsuit in which Lincoln represented his father-in-law. The case arose from expressed surprise, for he had reasoned that the State Bank notes year conflict over the value of Illinois State Bank notes that were used as payment for 160 acres of land in Curran Township, Sangamon County, southwest of Springfield. Todd intended the land as an eventual gift for his Springfield Daughters—Mary, Frances, and Elizabeth—and their husbands, Abraham Lincoln, Dr. William Wallace, and Ninian Wirt Edwards.

Todd had contracted to purchase the land in March 1841 from Nathaniel A. Ware, a speculator from Clinton, Missouri. Edwards was authorized to act as Todd's agent in the transaction and accordingly signed three notes—one for $415.70, due June 1, 1842, and one for $400, due June 1, 1844. Interest on the purchase was 12%.

Three months later, Todd gave Ware a mortgage deed on the land as security. In turn, Todd received from Ware's Springfield agent, Erastus Wright, a signed statement that the State bank notes would be accepted as payment, even though, at the time, such notes had depreciated in value and were expected to continue to do so.

Todd began repaying his debt in 1842. On March 3, Ware was given $176.37 in notes, and on April 14, an additional $40, for a total of $216.37. On May 10, Todd offered to pay the remainder of this 1842 commitment. Again, he used State Bank notes, which by then had depreciated to nearly half their face value. Ware refused to accept the notes, insisting that the earlier agreement between Edwards and Wright was no longer valid.

On June 16, 1843, Lincoln filed suit in Sangamon County Circuit Court in order to compel Ware to accept the notes as payment. Todd v. Ware came to court in November and was argued throughout the last two weeks of that month and on December 8 and 9 in the judge's chambers. Lincoln heard of the decision—against Todd—sometime in February or March of 1844. When informed of the ruling, Todd expressed surprise, for he had reasoned that the State bank notes would appreciate pari passu (at an equal rate) with Illinois land, which was indeed increasing in value. "How your courts could have decided as they have done in this instance, I can't comprehend," Todd complained to Edwards in his letter. Nevertheless, he approved a check for $980, leaving a small balance that he promised to send "in due time."

Todd begins the letter by apologizing for a long absence in New Orleans, during which time both sons-in-law had attempted to write to him. He then discusses the transaction with Ware and finally proceeds to family matters—the original reason for the land purchase. The letter is transcribed exactly as Todd wrote it.

Lexington Kentucky   

     March 13, 1844   

Dear Sir,

I returned home from New Orleans about 10 days ago and found your letter of December 19, which had not been transmitted to me, under my own, and their beliefs, I would have been home sooner, but circumstances of business forbade it, and I had to submit. Since my return, your Letter of March 1 is received and contents noted.

My absence from home, I fear, has put you in some inconvenience, and I hasten to repair any and all damages resulting from my absence or negligence. I have received Mr. Lincoln's letter advising me of a decision against me. Whether right or wrong, I wish to do what I have to do instantly.

I have not, since my return sent on the money east, but without regard to that, send on a check on the Bank of St. Louis $980—and you can remit the house, Eastwood.

The receipts of Mr. Wright's agent for Mr. Ware are for the following:

March 3, 1842, for        $176.37

April 14, 1842, for         $40.00

                                   ========

                                     $216.37

To which add check

now enclosed on

Bank of Missouri           $980.00

                                   ========

                                     $1,196.37

This Sum, I wish, applied to the payment of the Notes held by Mr. Ware—of his agent—deducting any sum you may have paid on account of this transaction.

In a few days, I shall send forward the executed deeds as originally intended for Dr. Wallace. Julia Edwards, and for Mr. Lincoln and Marym and desire that each and all of you shall use it to your best advantage in any way you may deem best. Mr. Lincoln wrote me a few days since and suggested that he was going to housekeeping; I wish him to avail himself of this Land immediately if it will be of any advantage or add to his comfort in any way.

The balance of Mr. Ware's payment, I will provide for in due time. My reason for giving you the instructions I did was that I believed the Illinois Money and Illinois Land would go Pari Passu (side by side), and how your Courts could have decided as they have done in this instance, I can't comprehend.

Mr. Lincoln, I discovered, is using his influence and talents for the Whig cause. I think he is right; for a good government should be first in the mind of every patriot. I can use influence here if Mr. Clay is elected (of which there can be no doubt) to procure some appointment for him, which will keep him out of Congress until his situation in a monied point of view, will enable him to take a stand in Congress, creditable both to himself and country. Such as District Attorney or Judge. I will write him in a few days. Present me to all my children and grandchildren in the kindest manner.

I am much oppressed with business: the longer I live, the more it seems to crowd upon me; until I am near exhausted.

My family is all well: and I should be glad to see any of you come and pay me a visit. You will be received kindly.

Yours truly,   

R. S. Todd    

Artist's conception of the Springfield home of Abraham Lincoln before the addition of the second story. Mary Lincoln Surprised Abraham (who walked past his own house) with a Home Remodeling Project.

Less than a week after writing the letter, Todd conveyed the land to the Lincolns, and Wallaces, and his granddaughter Julia Edwards. For the Lincolns, who in January had purchased a house from Rev. Charles Dresser, the land was an investment in the future. Mary Lincoln held her portion until September 18, 1954, when she sold it to Robert Anderson for $1,200, which was used to remodel the Lincoln home on Eighth and Jackson Streets. Ironically, $1,200 was approximately the amount that Robert Smith Todd had given for the entire tract thirteen years earlier. Illinois land, unlike Illinois State bank notes, had indeed doubled in value.

Todd was correct in forecasting Lincoln's efforts to secure the Whig nomination to Congress—which in 1844 went to Edward Baker and finally to Lincoln in 1846. Concerning the Career of Henry Clay, a fellow Kentuckian, however, Todd was less accurate. Anticipating Clay's election to the Presidency (of which there could  "be no doubt"), Todd had generously offered to use his influence with Clay, a personal friend, for an appointment for Lincoln. Clay's defeat in November by Democrat James K. Polk, however, ended that part of Todd's ambitions for his son-in-law.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Kiddieland Amusement Park, Springfield, Illinois. (1945-1977)

Kiddieland Amusement Park was located on 30 acres at 3833 East Harry Street. It was owned and operated by the Consolver brothers, George, J.L., B.G. (Tex), and N.C., who also owned several other businesses in the area. 

This photo of a 3-across carousel is a visual aid.

The park featured a variety of rides and attractions for young children, including a carousel, a miniature train, a Ferris wheel, a paddle boat pond, a miniature golf course, a driving range, a swimming pool, and a skating rink.

It was a popular destination for families with young children and was used as a venue for day camp, boy/girl scout field trips and other events.

Kiddieland closed in 1977 due to financial difficulties.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Spring Valley, Illinois & Sha’arei Tzedek Synagogue; A Jewish Connection.

The history of Jewish people in Spring Valley, Illinois, dates back to the late 1800s.

Jews first settled in the Illinois Valley Region, mainly from Lithuania. They came as peddlers, shopkeepers, and skilled tradesmen to serve the mining and farming communities growing in and around Spring Valley.

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The first known Jewish settler in the Illinois Valley was John Hays, who settled in Cahokia in 1793. Hays was a fur trapper and farmer. John Hays was appointed Sheriff of St. Clair County, 1798-1818.

The first Jewish congregation in Spring Valley was organized in 1890. It was called Congregation B'nai Israel. The congregation built its first Synagogue (Shul [Shoe-el] ─ Yiddish) in 1892 at 112 East First Street, but it was destroyed by fire in 1909.

A Black-and-White photographic postcard of the exterior of Sha'arei Tzedek Synagogue at 231 West Erie Street in Spring Valley, Illinois.

Congregation B'nai Israel built a new Synagogue at 231 West Erie Street in 1909. This Synagogue was more significant than the first one and could accommodate worshipers. The new Synagogue was named Sha'arei Tzedek, which means "Gates of Justice" in Hebrew.

The congregation's membership peaked in the 1920s with more than 100 families.

Sha'arei Tzedek served the Jewish community of Spring Valley for many years. However, as the Jewish population in the town declined in the mid-1960s, the congregation eventually disbanded. The Synagogue building was sold in 1977 and is now used as a furniture store.

The Synagogue closed in 1999 due to declining membership and participation.

Despite the disbandment of the congregation, Sha'arei Tzedek continues to hold High Holiday services in Spring Valley. These services are led by Allan Goodkind, who has been leading services at the Synagogue for over 40 years. 

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The Jewish High Holidays are a period of ten days that begins with Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) and ends with Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement). These holidays are a time for personal reflection, contrition, and reaffirmation.

Rabbi Cantor Goodkind retired to the West Rogers Park neighborhood in Chicago. Goodkind led High Holiday services at Sha'arei Tzedek every year he could after he retired.

The history of Sha'arei Tzedek Synagogue is a testament to the resilience of the Jewish community in Spring Valley. Despite the challenges of a declining population, the congregation has kept its doors open for over 100 years. The Synagogue is a reminder of the rich Jewish history in the Illinois Valley Region.

The Sha'arei Tzedek Preservation Society was formed in 2006 to save the Synagogue. The society raised $1 million to repair the building and reopen it as a museum and cultural center. The Synagogue reopened in 2010 for community events and programs.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Palace Gardens Amusement Park, Peoria, Illinois. (1870-1915)

The Beaumont Institute was founded in 1870 by Dr. William Beaumont, a surgeon best known for his experiments on digestion with Alexis St. Martin. Beaumont built his Institute on the site of his former home, located on the banks of the Illinois River. 

The Beaumont Institute was renamed the Palace Gardens in 1876, paying homage to the Palace of Versailles in France. 

The gardens were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, also known for creating Central Park in New York City. Olmsted's design featured a variety of plants and flowers from around the world, as well as several gazebos, fountains, and bridges. 

This photo is a visual aid.

The gardens included a zoo with large lions and bears. Visitors enjoyed four bowling lanes and a 'big-enough' dance hall. The gardens featured a variety of plants from around the world, as well as some exotic animals, like tigers. They also included a huge greenhouse, a museum, and a by-appointment private library.

Palace Gardens remained popular into the early 1900s. However, everything began to decline after Beaumont died in 1894 and eventually closed in 1915.

The site of Palace Gardens is now occupied by the Peoria Civic Center. However, a few remnants of the gardens remain, including the greenhouse and the museum. The greenhouse is now used by the Peoria Park District, and the museum is now a part of the Peoria Historical Society.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Riverside (Amusement) Park, Havana, Illinois. (1904-1967)

Riverside Park was located in Havana, Illinois, along the Illinois River. It opened in 1904, featuring a variety of rides and attractions.

The "Midway" is a 'street' or lane with one or both sides having concession after concession with games of chance, refreshments, souvenirs, a beer garden, and 
entertainments.

The wooden roller coaster, the "Bass Bullet," was built in 1920 with three drops and a white-knuckle top speed of 30 mph. Other attractions included a carousel, kiddie rides, a dance hall, a concession stand and a picnic area. 

This photo is a visual aid.

The Riverside Grille served American fare overlooking the Illinois River. The Grille is well known for miles for the freshly caught Illinois River Black Bass with our recipes. Riverside Park hosted various events throughout the season, including company/family picnics, concerts, and weekend Fairs and Festivals. 

The park closed in 1967 due to financial difficulties. The land was later sold and developed into a housing subdivision.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Zoo Park and Pleasure Resort, Springfield, Illinois. (1906-1917)

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In historical writing and analysis, PRESENTISM introduces present-day ideas and perspectives into depictions or interpretations of the past. Presentism is a form of cultural bias that creates a distorted understanding of the subject matter. Reading modern notions of morality into the past is committing the error of presentism. Historical accounts are written by people and can be slanted, so I try my hardest to present fact-based and well-researched articles.

Facts don't require one's approval or acceptance.

I present [PG-13] articles without regard to race, color, political party, or religious beliefs, including Atheism, national origin, citizenship status, gender, LGBTQ+ status, disability, military status, or educational level. What I present are facts — NOT Alternative Facts — about the subject. You won't find articles or readers' comments that spread rumors, lies, hateful statements, and people instigating arguments or fights.

FOR HISTORICAL CLARITY

When I write about the INDIGENOUS PEOPLE, I follow this historical terminology:

• The use of old commonly used terms, disrespectful today, i.e., REDMAN or REDMEN, SAVAGES, and HALF-BREED are explained in this article.

Writing about AFRICAN-AMERICAN history, I follow these race terms:

• "NEGRO" was the term used until the mid-1960s.
• "BLACK" started being used in the mid-1960s.
• "AFRICAN-AMERICAN" [Afro-American] began usage in the late 1980s.

— PLEASE PRACTICE HISTORICISM —

THE INTERPRETATION OF THE PAST IN ITS OWN CONTEXT.

 

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Zoo Park and Pleasure Resort was an ambitious but short-lived amusement park on nearly 200 acres at North Eighth Street Road, north of the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

The Giant Racer roller coaster at Zoo Park and Pleasure Resort in Springfield, Illinois.

Work began on Zoo Park in 1906, a year when many people apparently believed Springfield was deficient in recreation opportunities. In April, the Illinois State Register reported that, in addition to Zoo Park, another development group had started construction of Springfield's White City Park, an amusement park off East Cook Street, and major renovations were underway at “Springfield’s old stand-by,” Mildred Park (located where Bunn Park is today). The already popular Irwin’s Electric Park near Auburn also was adding attractions, the story said, and plans were in the early stages to create another park near Clear Lake, between Springfield and Riverton. Some plans for Zoo Park were accomplished, including the construction of the Giant Racer roller coaster and the dance pavilion. But the park ultimately failed because streetcar lines were never extended past the fairgrounds and because of competition from Springfield's White City Park, which was closer to the city and had much better transportation connections. On September 20, 1906, an article in the Illinois State Register reported developers were dreaming of “an amusement resort much larger than exists in any other western city.”

Construction work on the gigantic coaster, which is 1,900 feet long, is almost finished, and painters are at work on it and on the large arcade, erected to contain the myri(a)d of small attractions.

The arcade, like all of the buildings now in progress of erection …, is very large, being 75×365 feet, and with a beautiful architectural roof.

A lake, partly natural and partly artificial, is also completed and has a ground area of thirty acres. But two or three boats are now in use, but a large fleet will be built in the Zoo workshops this winter and put in readiness for the spring opening.

That story, like many others to come, was optimistic about a streetcar connection. Grading and surveying were well underway, the Illinois State Register said, and workers “will soon begin the erection of a bridge across Spring Creek. This will open the line into the Zoo Park, proper.…” However, the park’s organizers struggled to convince the Illinois Department of Agriculture to grant a streetcar right-of-way along the west side of the fairgrounds, and the streetcar route never came to pass. Newspaper stories say stock in the venture ─ four separate companies were incorporated in connection with Zoo Park, although the main one seems to have been the Illinois State Zoo and Amusement Company ─ was sold across the state. A group of stockholders from Belleville, seeing no return on their money, began in 1909 to question how it had been spent. An Illinois State Journal article on the Belleville investigation, however, suggested the Zoo Park company had largely played fair with its investors.

The Zoo Park … gives evidences now of the expenditures of several thousand dollars. The giant coaster, said to be only 120 feet short of a mile in length of track, has been almost finished. There are three pavilions in the 223-acre tract, one for dancing, another for café purposes and the third for billiards and pool. The penny arcade, 365 by 75 feet, is partially finished. Back of the arcade is a small pony track.

A small lake is at the south part of the park. The lake has been partially stocked with fish and several small boats have been placed on it.

All lots included in the addition have been sold, according to an employe of the Zoo and Amusement company.

As the streetcar line continued to meet delays, the Journal added, “Some effort was exerted to interest people in the project of carrying patrons to and from the park in automobiles and carriages, but the matter soon slumbered.” Other 1909 stories reported the road from the fairgrounds to the park had been graded, “putting it in good condition for pleasure driving,” and that a bus line was to operate to the park on Sundays.

It’s not clear if the bus ever ran. But that’s just one of the uncertainties about Zoo Park more than a century later. For instance, contemporary newspaper stories give a range of sizes, anywhere from 178 to 238 acres, for the Zoo Park property. (It’s possible that some of those estimates included Olentangy Heights while others did not.)

Various newspaper stories, probably based on statements from the park’s operators, gave the length as 1,200, 1,900, and over 5,000 feet (a mile is 5,280 feet). Whatever its length, it’s also not clear whether the coaster ever ran. Reports written long after the park folded usually say the ride was never completed and no one ever used it. In addition, newspaper articles published at the time, though they regularly mention the roller coaster at Springfield's White City Park, make almost no similar references to Zoo Park’s “Velvet Coaster” being in operation.

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Riverview Amusement Park in Chicago had a roller coaster called the "Velvet Coaster." It opened for the 1907 season and closed at the end of the 1919 season. It was 2,200 feet long.

But there is one such mention: An Illinois State Register brief published on September. 22, 1912, suggests Zoo Park’s roller coaster actually did run. By 1912, rather than selling tickets to the general public, the park seems to have catered mainly to outings held by church groups, clubs, labor unions and similar organizations. The mention was in the Illinois State Register’s “High School Notes” column. (Springfield High was the city’s only public high school at the time.) The item says, in full:

The entire school will take a hay rack ride next Friday to the Zoo Park where lunch will be served free to all; boating, fishing, swimming and the roller coaster will tend to make the time go fast.

Zoo Park also had a zoo, although, again, some later coverage said the only animals it held were “one camel, a small herd of deer and buffalo and a few monkeys.” That may have been true later in the park’s existence, as Zoo Park sold all its animals except “those that eat grain and hay” to the Jones Brothers Circus sometime before 1909. Earlier, however, the park had a real zoo, at least for a time. Among its inhabitants were two lions, Nero and Nellie, who attacked a maintenance worker on March 15, 1907. The animals had been confined to a small anteroom while their main cage was being painted, but they somehow jarred the door loose and attacked the painter, Maxoumi Ben-Rahman. He was rescued by the lions’ owner and trainer, identified in the Illinois State Register’s story only as “Senor Cardona,” and the park’s manager.

"They ran to the cage and found the Arab lying upon his back with the lion, Nero, standing with one foot upon his chest. Cardona dashed into the cage and the lion was beaten back to the corner."

Ben-Rahman, whom the newspaper described as “the Arab who was seen so many days last summer driving the donkey around the city in the interests of the Zoo,” was not seriously injured. sidebar

Another of Cardona’s lions, Sappho, was the mother of the first two lion cubs ever born in Springfield. She gave birth on March 1, 1907, at Johnny Connors’ Empire Theatre, where Cardona and his lions were performing. However, both cubs were accidentally smothered by their mother shortly after birth.

Picnics and similar outings were held frequently at Zoo Park well into the decade, starting in 1910. However, the park could never overcome its remote location and competition from Springfield's White City Park, so in February 1919, Judge E.S. Smith appointed a receiver for the bankrupt park. At the time, the park’s debts were stated at $12,000, while the land was estimated to be worth $35,000 and the park’s other assets at $4,000. The land was auctioned off in July, with newspaper stories revealing another discrepancy in the acreage involved. The Illinois State Register in February had reported the property totaled 193 acres, while the final sale, according to the Journal, was 179 acres. The auction resulted in a price of $131 per acre or a total of $23,449. The buyer, Beulah Maxcy, was expected to farm most of the property, although structures on the land still included a house and “an immense pavilion, which will probably be changed into a barn,” the Journal said. Even the auction didn’t come off without a hitch, however. Maxcy’s $131 was topped by another auction patron, Santo Salamone. The two continued to raise each other until Maxcy refused to top Salamone’s $140 price. It turned out, however, that Salamone, a railroad worker and recently returned World War I veteran, thought he was bidding only on a single acre. “They can buy the rest,” he said. “I only have money for one.” Auction organizers rebid the sale. Maxcy was awarded the contract at the $131 per acre that had been her final offer before Salamone joined the bidding. The Journal writer concluded with what was probably intended to be the obituary of the Zoo Park.

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Zoo Park and Pleasure Resort's Giant Racer roller coaster was dismantled in 1917.

This property, at one time, held great promise for its promoters, who incorporated their amusement company at $100,000. It failed in its promise and had passed to private ownership, and former haunts of amusement soon will boast nothing else but grazing cattle and growing crops. In 1925, the Zoo Park pavilion was remodeled and reopened for dancing several nights a week to combos like Bradley’s Orchestra and Chicago’s Ernie Young’s Orchestra. In July, local dancers Harry Miles and Max Forman introduced the Charleston, “a new dance from the East,” to Zoo Park patrons. The pavilion featured a “polished hard maple floor, 3,516 feet of dancing space, a wide veranda with seats and beautiful decorations,” ads said. The next year, operator George Pehlman remodeled the pavilion again – to a Spanish atmosphere – and renamed it the Coral Gables. As a dance hall, Coral Gables endured a couple more years, hosting regular “hotsy-totsy” dances featuring the Frank Hodalski Orchestra in 1928 and 1929. However, the club apparently did not reopen in 1930. The park’s last gasp apparently was as a picnic site under the name Greenwood Park in 1937. Finally, in 1941, a Journal classified ad offered “white pine framing and sills for sale; an old Zoo Park building one mile north of the fairgrounds on North Eighth Street Road.” The former park site now is the location of widely spaced rural homes north of the Springfield Sanitary District’s Spring Creek sewage treatment plant.

Olentangy Heights, in Springfield, Illinois, began selling and constructing homes in 1949.

By Sangamon County Historical Society

Edited by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.

Exposition Amusement Shelter, Peoria, Illinois. (1907-1923)

The Exposition Amusement Shelter was an amusement park in Peoria, Illinois, operated from 1907 to 1923. The Peoria Traction Company built the park to promote weekend travel on its new electric line.

This photo is a visual aid.

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The Bloomington-to-Peoria, Illinois Interurban line formally opened in April 1907.

Exposition Amusement Shelter quickly became a popular spot, attracting visitors from all over the Peoria area.

The park featured a variety of rides and attractions, including a roller coaster, a swing ride, a dance pavilion, a 2,500-seat auditorium, a swimming pool, and various games of chance and concessions. The park also had several camping cottages.

Exposition Amusement Shelter's popularity declined in the early 1920s as more people began owning automobiles. The park closed in 1923 as the Great Depression made it nearly impossible to operate at a profit.

The park's grounds were eventually sold and subdivided. The former camping cottages were moved to other locations and converted into permanent homes. The auditorium was demolished in 1936. Today, there are no remaining structures left.

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.