Kick up some dirt and join the family of rough-terrain racers at Sunset Ridge MX
SHOPPING & SLUICING
Browse gemstones or have fun mining for treasures at The Rock and Soul
SOUTHERN COMFORT
A Georgia woman serves flavors of the Deep South in North Central Illinois
Discover this annual weeklong festival & music celebration in Streator
Actors will reenact a slice of history at the Ottawa park where Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas conducted their first debate
A weeklong summer festival celebrates vocal and classical music, with opportunities for visitors to join the jamboree
Don't miss five big names in country, rock and Christian rock coming to festivals in Starved Rock Country
Reid's Southern Kitchen & Smokehouse serves savory barbecue and authentic flavors of the American Deep South
It's no secret that The Hideout Two in Morris is a go-to destination for burgers, wings and Friday fish fry, among other favorites
The Pistole family operates an off-road race track for motocross bikes and ATVs, and they consider all who ride there part of the clan
Browse gemstones and mineral specimens at a Utica rock shop, or participate in family fun at the shop's outdoor mining station
Four record stores across the region offer a treasure trove for vinyl collectors and music buffs
Trail improvements and closures are underway this year at Starved Rock State Park; learn the details and plan ahead
Spend your summer on the links with the Starved Rock Country Discount Golf Card — check out participating courses and clubs
The city of Mendota is proud of its railroad history, and one man played a pivotal role in its development
| E DITOR’S NOTE |
ne of my favorite spots in downtown Ottawa is the fountain at the heart of Washington Square. Flowers and greenery circle the water feature, giving it a sense of seclusion from the bustle of sidewalks and streets. It's a great place to eat lunch on a nice day or read a book on one of the benches.
The centerpiece of the fountain is a statue of Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, commemorating Ottawa as the site of the first of seven Lincoln-Douglas debates in their bid for an Illinois Senate seat in 1858. This year, their verbal battle returns to Ottawa during Debate Days, which includes an abridged reenactment of the debate (p. 8). The event is part of the nationwide America 250 celebration, which reflects on two and a half centuries of U.S. history.
In each issue of Starved Rock Country Magazine, we include a local glimpse of the past in Hidden History, a series compiled by Charles Stanley about interesting but lesser known moments in the region's past. In this issue, Stanley highlights Timothy Blackstone, an influential figure in the city of Mendota's railroad legacy (p. 40).
For a broader scope of history — say, 500 million years — consider a trip to The Rock and Soul, a rock shop in Utica that sells gemstones, minerals and crystal specimens (p. 30). Owner Christy Donahue's inventory represents millions of years of geological history across the globe. She also offers hands-on fun for families with geode cracking and an outdoor mining station.
While the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary this year, a combination music camp for youths and public music festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Poco a Poco Summer Music Fest returns to Streator in June and features multiple concerts, including a community chorus and a flex ensemble that are open to public participation (p. 10).
There's more music in Starved Rock Country this summer — don't miss big acts in country music, rock and Christian rock coming to Streator Fest and the Bureau County Fair (p. 14). And don't forget the abundance of local outdoor concert series, such as Princeton's monthly Down on Main Street series, Peru's Music Under the Oaks, Ottawa's weekly Music in the Park, Streator's weekly Jammin' at the Clock and Morris' bi-weekly Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn, among others.
Come celebrate with us and be a part of Starved Rock Country's legacy this summer. Have a happy American semiquincentennial!
JULIE BARICHELLO Editor
Starved Rock Country Magazine is published quarterly or seasonally four times per year
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Vol 14 No 2
Summer 2026 Edition
2026-05/25,000
GENERAL MANAGER
Jeanette Smith
EDITOR & DESIGN
Julie Barichello
PRODUCTION
Rhonda Dillon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Derek Barichello
Julie Barichello
Jonathan Bilyk
Stephanie Jaquins
Ryan Searl
Charles Stanley
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Scott Anderson
Kyle Russell
Tom Sistak
Fireworks at Lake Mendota
Photo by Scott Anderson
be a witness to the great
DEBATE
Actors breathe life into one of Ottawa's most famous historical moments: the verbal showdown between
Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas
By Stephanie Jaquins | Shaw Media file photos
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday this summer, Ottawa is looking back at its own historic moment on the national stage — the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas debates.
Ottawa was the site of the first debate for the Illinois Senate between challenger Abraham Lincoln and incumbent Stephen Douglas on Aug. 21, 1858.
More than 20 years ago, larger-thanlife statues of Lincoln and Douglas were erected at the debate site known as Washington Square. The event also is reflected in the mural “Day of the Great Debate,” located near the debate site. Installed at La Salle and West Jackson streets, the painting tells the story of the day, which included a raucous crowd of residents who gathered to support, or heckle, their favorite candidate.
This summer, the city will bring that
history back to life. The city’s Debate Days celebration will run from Saturday, Aug. 15, through Sunday, Aug. 23, featuring a lineup of events centered on the country's anniversary.
The highlight comes Saturday, Aug. 22, when the debate will be reenacted by Lincoln impersonator Fritz Klein, who appears at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield and also has performed in more than 40 states in addition to international performances. Brian “Fox” Ellis, an author, storyteller, historian and naturalist, will depict Douglas. He has worked with The Denver Museum of Science and Nature, The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, The Field Museum and dozens of other museums across the country.
The original debate was three hours long, but this reenactment will be condensed to an hour, said Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce Executive
Director Jay McCracken.
“They’ve done this before where they've done the debate, and they make it interactive so it's really enjoyable for the crowd,” McCracken said. “They use actual excerpts from the speeches from the first debate in 1858.”
McCracken said the celebration has been in the works since last fall and has been a community effort.
“It was one of those things that came up in conversation, and we thought we should do more with celebrating the most important historical event that happened in this community. We should build a celebration around it. It’s been wonderful to see the community involved.”
In addition to the live reenactment of the famous debate, the celebration will include an art gala hosted by the Ottawa Center for the Arts as well as additional programs throughout the week at the Reddick Mansion and the Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum. Other events include performances by roots musician Chris Vallillo and brass band 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band, a farmers market featuring 40 vendors, an Old Time Fair with free kids games, an ice cream social, and a red-white-and-blue theme parade celebrating the United States’ 250 years. For a list of events and times, visit www.visitottawail.com.
Fritz Klein will portray Abraham Lincoln during the Debate Days reenactment Saturday, Aug. 22, in Ottawa.
POCO a POCO
Weeklong summer festival marks its 10th year of instilling a love of music
By Julie Barichello | Photos by Sarah Brianne Photography
Every year for the past decade, as steady as a metronome, a weeklong festival arrives in Streator. Locals and a few outof-towners recognize it. On the mass scale, however, few have heard of it.
But it’s never been quiet about its presence.
In fact, nothing about the Poco a Poco Summer Music Fest is quiet. The eight-day event bursts with vocal and classical music performances, classes and presentations.
Poco a Poco is operated by a nonprofit organization of the same name. Founded in 2017 by professional mezzo-soprano and Streator native Kate Tombaugh, the event serves a dual purpose. One half of its mission is an advanced music education program for upper junior high and high school students. The other half consists of free
public performances to engage the community in the arts and music.
“Poco a poco is a music term,” said Tombaugh, founder and executive director. “It literally translates to little by little. If you’re looking at a piece of music, it’s gradually getting louder and gradually getting softer.”
She said the same concept applies to students enrolled in Poco a Poco’s Young Artist program. Through education and practice, they can steadily improve their singing and music skills. Students in eighth grade through high school seniors can apply and audition annually for a spot in both individualized and group music training sessions.
“I wanted to create something that was accessible to Streator area students but also open to students from further abroad. We have now served 115 students from 35 public and parochial schools across nine counties in
POCO
Illinois, plus three other states,” Tombaugh said.
She emphasized the Young Artist program is open to students of any skill level with an interest in music, not only those who are high-level performers. During auditions, Tombaugh identifies each student’s interests as well as skills for them to enhance.
“Maybe we have to work on your oral skills, like hearing a note and being able to sing it back. Or let’s work on gaining confidence. Let’s work on practicing auditions. Let’s work on expanding your range,” she said.
Students receive 35 hours of private instruction and small group music theory. They are paired with specially selected faculty from Tombaugh’s network of professional singers, musicians and instructors. Students also have the
opportunity to take elective sessions in a vast range of subjects. Past electives delved into subjects like Bollywood music, African-American spirituals, ballroom dancing, arranging music and conducting.
Poco a Poco offers additional music education to younger students. A three-day Junior High Training Program is open to all fifth- through seventh-grade students who apply and pay tuition, with no audition required. A pre-K through fourth-grade “Fun with Music!” session is offered in collaboration with Streator Public Library.
But youth education is only half of the festival.
“People don’t realize that not only do we have this training program, but then there’s all these concerts that are free and open to the public. Those happen simultaneously,” Tombaugh said.
Poco a Poco’s 10th Annual Summer Music Fest
Saturday, June 6 through Saturday, June 13
All events listed below are free and open to the public. Programs and performances take place at Park Presbyterian Church, 201 N. Vermillion St., Streator, unless otherwise noted.
l Community Choir Rehearsal
6 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 8
Register to perform at www.pocoapoco.org/events.
l Faculty presentation: What is Physical Therapy and How Does it Relate to Music?
3:15 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 9
Attendees will learn about physical therapy, who is treated, different types of interventions and how this relates to singing or playing an instrument.
l Community Instrumental Ensemble Rehearsal
5:30 to 6:50 p.m. Tuesday, June 9
Register to perform at www.pocoapoco.org/events.
l Faculty & Friends Concert
7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 9
A concert featuring acclaimed Poco a Poco faculty and guest artists.
l K-4 Fun With Music!
10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 10
An interactive program for pre-K through fourth-grade students that explores music through hands-on activities, movement and rhythm games.
l Coffeehouse Concert
4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 10
The Silver Fox, 122 N. Park St., Streator
A relaxed concert featuring eclectic, up-close performances by Poco a Poco’s junior faculty and emerging artists.
l Community Instrumental Ensemble Rehearsal
5:30 to 6:50 p.m. Thursday, June 11
Second rehearsal
l Student Showcase
7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 11
An evening featuring solos and ensembles developed during students’ intensive week of educational sessions.
l Community Choir Rehearsal
1 to 2 p.m. Friday, June 12
Second rehearsal
l Jam Session
7 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 12
The jam session begins with three mini concerts. After, all interested musicians in attendance will break into small group sessions based on instrument and skill level to prepare for and participate in a fullgroup jam. Advanced musicians will continue the jam for the evening. Musicians and singers can register at www.pocoapoco.org/events.
l Community Concert
3 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 13
Streator High School, 202 W. Lincoln Ave., Streator
Celebrate the grand finale of Summer Music Fest with a concert showcasing the community choir, instrumental ensemble and Poco a Poco student performers.
“The faculty are part of those, and sometimes we have outside guest musicians.”
Performances include a coffeehouse concert at 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, a student showcase at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 11, a jam session at 7 p.m. Friday, June 12, and a community concert at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 13. Pop-up performances featuring about 20 minutes of live music will occur around downtown Streator throughout the festival week.
“There will be interactive presentations by our faculty. There will be some popup mini concerts in the afternoon,” Tombaugh said. “The goal is that if people are coming Monday through Friday – hopefully they can stay through Saturday – there’s going to be several things that they can check out.”
Several faculty presentations, such as physical therapist Kelly Anderson’s program “What is Physical Therapy and How Does it Relate to Music?” are open to public attendance.
Other events are open to community participation.
Poco a Poco includes a community choir, an instrumental ensemble and a jam session open to everyone who wants to join. The community choir and instrumental ensemble include two weekday rehearsals before the Saturday afternoon performance.
Participation is free, but Tombaugh advised performers
to register in advance to ensure enough materials are available. Registration is especially important for the instrumental ensemble, which is a flex ensemble –arrangements will be tailored based on the instruments musicians plan to bring.
“It’s a flex ensemble – not a band, not an orchestra. It’s open to anybody who signs up and plays any instrument. If somebody plays mountain dulcimer, for instance, they could be in our instrumental ensemble,” Tombaugh said.
“It’s coordinated by Dr. Shelbie Wahl-Fouts. She is able to create a flex repertoire based on who registers and if they are a beginner, intermediate or advanced.”
Like the Young Artist program, Tombaugh emphasized participation is not limited to high-level performers. Novice singers and musicians are welcome.
“The goal is, if you are in one of the ensembles, we’ve set it up that there’s enough section leaders so you don’t have to feel like you’re sticking out or vulnerable,” Tombaugh said. “It’s meant to be a positive experience.”
For audience members, Tombaugh promises a strong show.
“This is our guarantee: High quality, accessible, always free, always public, a little educational and multigenerational,” she said. “And hopefully entertaining.”
Compiled by Starved Rock Country Magazine staff • Photos by Kyle Russell and Scott Anderson
Scene Country
Big names in music are headed to Starved Rock Country this summer.
Festival headliners include well-known country, rock and Christian rock acts.
STREATOR FEST
Streator Fest is the annual summer carnival and music festival at Northpoint Plaza in Streator. This year's event runs Thursday, Aug. 6, through Sunday, Aug. 9. To buy concert tickets in advance, visit www.streatorfest.com/the-music.
Jo Dee Messina
6:45 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6
Country music star Jo Dee Messina kicks off the concert series during Streator Fest 2026. She has nine No. 1 and 16 Top 40 songs. Hits include "Heads Carolina, Tails California," "I'm Alright," "Bye-Bye," "That's the Way," "Bring on the Rain" and "My Give a Damn's Busted."
Skillet
7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7
Christian rock band Skillet – comprised of John Cooper, Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger and Seth Morrison – released their 12th studio album"Revolution" in November 2024. After touring Europe this spring, the band returns stateside and will headline the Friday night show in Streator.
Bret Michaels
7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8
Rock musician and Poison lead singer Bret Michaels headlines the Saturday night show at Streator Fest. In addition to his work with Poison, Michaels has released multiple solo albums that blend rock, country, blues and ballads. Solo albums include "A Letter from Death Row," "Ballads, Blues & Stories," "Jammin With My Friends" and "True Grit," among others.
BUREAU COUNTY FAIR
The 171st installation of the Bureau County Fair returns to the Bureau County Fairgrounds in Princeton from Wednesday, Aug. 26, through Sunday, Aug. 30. Priding itself as the longest running fair in Illinois, it's also well known in the region for delivering top talent at the grandstand during its Thursday night concert. For a full schedule of events or to buy concert tickets, visit www.bureaucountyfair.com.
Sawyer Brown
7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27
Country music band Sawyer Brown formed in 1981 and has been going strong ever since. The group is billed as “the Rolling Stones of Country Music,” and in 2025 they released "Desperado Troubadors," their first studio album in 20 years. Top songs include "Heart Don't Fall Now," "Some Girls Do," "The Walk," "Step That Step," "Drive Me Wild" and "The Dirt Road."
Lonestar
7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27
Mansion and Gardens
OJoining Sawyer Brown onstage during Thursday's show is Lonestar, a country music band comprised of Drew Womack, Michael Britt, Dean Sams and Keech Rainwater. Lonestar has 10 albums and nine No. 1 singles on the Hot Country Songs Billboard chart, including "Amazed," "Smile," "What About Now," "I'm Already There" and "Mr. Mom." Check out OUR WEBSITE HERE FOR
ne of the most expensive and ornate private homes in the Midwest when completed in 1858, the Mansion was built by businessman, politician, and philanthropist William Reddick. Home to the Reddick family for nearly 30 years, the mansion anchors Washington Square, site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate.
June 2026
Expand your summer garden by shopping at the Utica Garden Faire and Plant Sale, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
June 6–7 at the Canal Market in Utica.
Acoustic and roots music with traditional instruments fill the air at Gebhard Woods Dulcimer & Traditional Music Festival, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. June 13–14 in Morris.
Embark on the Summer Solstice Nature Hike, 9 a.m. at Starved Rock State Park.
Advance registration required via EventBrite
A week of public concerts and music programs flood Streator during the Poco a Poco Summer Music Fest. Read more on p. 10.
The Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp play at home this week in Peru. Visit Schweickert Stadium at 6:35 p.m. for Prospect League baseball.
For a season schedule: pistolshrimpbaseball.com
Book a narrated sightseeing cruise on the Sainte Genevieve Riverboat in Ottawa.
For details and tickets: www.stegenriverboat.com
Add a little Mardi Gras to your evening and visit Heritage Park in Streator, where Zydeco Voodoo will kick off the weekly Jammin' at the Clock summer concert series at 6 p.m.
Enjoy grilled or fried shrimp, alligator, cheese curds, wine and brews, plus fun family activities at ShrimpFest & Brew Hullabaloo in Princeton.
Catch a show of "Ring of Fire," a musical portrait of Johnny Cash's life, 7:30 p.m. at The Grace Theater in Princeton. Performances run June 19–28.
For details and tickets: www.festival56.com
Oglesby Summer Fun Fest begins with a carnival, food and country music. Harmonix plays at 6:30 p.m., and Toby Keith tribute band Made in America plays at 9 p.m.
The Sting Rays will play 1950s, '60s and '70s favorites at 6:30 p.m. on the Grundy County Courthouse lawn in Morris.
Explore the grounds of Hornbaker Gardens and shop during the annual 3-day Open House and Hosta Walk at the Princeton garden center. Classic cars line the streets of downtown Ottawa for Cruise Night.
Neon 90’s Country Rewind will kick off the Down on Main Street Concert Series in Princeton at 6 p.m.
The Ottawa Family Pride Festival includes a parade, drag queen performances, vendors and more in downtown Ottawa. Music and barbecue are highlights of the annual Rhythm & BBQ Festival in Morris, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. at Goold Park.
BBQ competition info: morrisbbqassociation.com
Break out the caftans, bold prints and your best Mrs. Roper attitude at the second annual Mrs. Roper Romp, 3–9 p.m. in downtown Utica.
Don't Miss...
...the Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run to honor military service members who have died in the line of duty. The police-escorted ride departs at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 20.
• Start Location: Grundy County Fairgrounds
• End Location: The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial, Marseilles
• Details: www.ilfreedomrun.com
POCO A POCO POCO A POCO
July 2026
Happy Independence Day! The United States is celebrating 250 years since the nation's birth.
Add a little romance to your summer.
Festival 56 will stage "The Bridges of Madison County," 2 p.m. at The Grace Theater.
For details and tickets: www.festival56.com Eat lunch and be entertained by the show "Heatwave! Vintage Songs of Summer" at Starved Rock Lodge.
"Guys and Dolls" takes the stage July 9-12 at Engle Lane Theatre in Streator, starting at 7 p.m. tonight.
For details and tickets: starvedrocklodge.com/ activities/entertainment
Hear iconic songs from the 1930s –'70s during "A Tribute to the Best of the Best!” at Starved Rock Lodge, 11:30 a.m.
For details and tickets: starvedrocklodge.com/ activities/entertainment
The Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp face the Cape Catfish at Schweickert Stadium in Peru. The Prospect League game begins at 6:35 p.m.
For a season schedule: pistolshrimpbaseball.com
For details and tickets: www.englelane.org
It's Rodeo Night at the La Salle County Fairgrounds in Ottawa! Catch the Mutton Bust preshow at 6 p.m., followed by T & A Bucking Bulls.
Watch live reenactments of WWII and ride on military vehicles at the Ottawa Military Show.
Continues Sunday. Free both days.
Shop for artisan goods at the Third Friday Makers Market in downtown Ottawa, 5-9 p.m.
Catch "The Drowsy Chaperone," 7:30 p.m. at Stage 212 in La Salle. The show runs July 10–12, 17–19 and 24–26.
For details and tickets: www.stage212.org
Boats speed across the water during the Lake DePue PRO National Championship Boat Races. Watch the races July 31–Aug. 2. Food vendors, beer garden and live music on the scene.
Explore miles of scenic Bureau County in the Z Tour Bike Ride! Multiple routes with distance and surface options are available.
Details and registration: www.ztour.org
It's Christmas in July in Streator! Deck yourself in a holiday outfit and bring friends for this special shopping event. Win discounts and prizes at participating businesses.
August 2026
"Anastasia," a musical based on the 1997 animated film, hits the stage at 2 p.m. at The Grace Theater in Princeton. Performances run July 31–Aug. 8.
For details and tickets: www.festival56.com
The "Big Event" of the 4-day Mendota Sweet Corn Festival (Aug. 6–9) is the free sweet corn served Sunday afternoon.
For details and schedule: sweetcornfestival.com
Create your own paint with nature at the Art in the Park workshop at Starved Rock State Park.
Advance registration required via EventBrite
3
30 31
The Ukulele Moonshiners bring an explosion of music and laughter to Starved Rock Lodge's lunch matinee.
For details and tickets: starvedrocklodge.com/ activities/entertainment
Looking Ahead to September
Don't miss one of the state's biggest cruise nights! Roamer Cruise Night returns to Main Street in downtown Streator on Saturday, Sept. 5. The day begins with the Dream Machines Car Show, noon to 3 p.m. at City Park. Head downtown for the evening's Roamer Cruise Night, 5 to 10 p.m., featuring cars, a cruise route, demonstrations, food, music and more.
The drama "Next to Normal" begins a series of four shows Aug. 6–9 at Engle Lane Theatre in Streator.
For details and tickets: www.englelane.org
It's National Vinyl Record Day! Expand your collection by visiting one of the region's four record stores. Read more on p. 34.
Country bands Sawyer Brown and Lonestar headline the Bureau County Fair's concert. The show begins at 7 p.m.
For details and tickets: bureaucountyfair.com
Christian rock band Skillet takes the stage during Streator Fest, a carnival and music festival at Northpoint Plaza in Streator.
For details and tickets: www.streatorfest.com
STREATOR FEST
Taste of the Illinois Valley features food, craft vendors, live music and entertainment, 1–10 p.m. at Centennial Park in Peru.
Shop the 3 French Hens French Country Market in downtown Morris, 8 a.m.–2 p.m. The market is open the second Saturday of the month, May through October.
Celebrate the arts in Morris during the Liberty Arts Festival! Enjoy an art stroll, music and dance performances, food trucks, a Sip 'n' Shop and more.
Actors will reenact the Lincoln-Douglas debate at the site where the historic figures first spoke in Ottawa. Read more on p. 8.
Pluto Fest runs 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at Streator City Park with vendors, food trucks, a home brew tasting, live music, family activities and more.
SOUTHERN COMFORT COMFORT
By Charles Stanley
At Reid’s Southern Kitchen & Smokehouse, the menu is loaded with mouth-watering options.
Plates of smoked ribs, beef brisket and pulled pork as well as other dishes such as “chicken and waffles” are among the popular fare.
But there’s no charge for a side-order of southern charm from Amanda Racz, the restaurant’s proprietress as well as an evangelist for Southern food.
Racz is a native of St. Simons Island, a Georgia beach town about an hour south of Savannah. She came to Chicago to take a hotel concierge position and met her husband. They settled in south suburban Tinley Park, and for eight years she operated
a dance studio in nearby Palos Heights.
“Next, I ventured into interior design — and then this happened,” she said, with a smile and a wave at the restaurant’s interior.
She had been approached by the building’s owner, who wanted her to open a restaurant.
“I was already working for him doing interior design and managing contractors for his real estate ventures,” she said.
For decades, the building at 1402 Peoria St., Peru, has been a restaurant. Most recently, it housed Mark Allen’s American Kitchen for 16 years, until 2022.
In 2023, the building became the home of Annie’s Restaurant and Pancake House. But it closed the following year.
Photos by Julie Barichello and Charles Stanley
Georgia woman serves authentic Southern cuisine
Boiled peanuts
Chicken and waffles
Collard greens
Racz decided to take the owner’s challenge — with the proviso that the establishment would be named after her son Reid, now age 5.
“I felt that would make it more meaningful,” she said.
After five months of preparation, and feeling a little apprehensive, Racz opened Reid’s in December 2024.
“It was definitely a bold move for me because, while I had been a business owner before, I had never owned a restaurant before,” she said. “Both are equally as stressful. But I would say the restaurant gives me more pleasure because I get to meet so many of the different people who come here.”
Her son Reid also interacts with the customers when he’s there.
“He greets them and shows them his dance moves and toys,” Racz said. “He’s a trip.”
Their family dog, a pug named Sir Winston Franklin, also is often on hand.
Besides her early years as a waitress and bar manager, Racz decided to lean heavily on family recipes to fill the menu.
“I originally started with just my own family’s recipes,” she said. “But now that the staff is kind of part of my family, I let them contribute.”
Customers who are leery of unfamiliar menu items get encouragement from Racz.
“If people don’t know what things are — like fried okra — I want them to try it. So I’ll bring out a sample because I’m sure they’re going to like it. And most of the time they love it.”
Customers also are hesitant to try the collard greens — a nutritious leafy vegetable in the cabbage family typically simmered in a broth with bacon, ham and other ingredients.
“I get that people here don’t like collard greens, but typically they’ve never tried them,” Racz said. “So we bring them out a little sample, and they’re hooked.”
And then there are boiled peanuts. They are prepared by simmering unshelled peanuts in salt water until tender.
“I know a lot of Northerners kind of frown on mushy peanuts,” she said. “But they are a Southern delicacy, so I encourage my customers to at least try them.”
Amanda Racz, owner
IN PLAIN SIGHT
Version 2.0 of a Morris restaurant is easy to find – and easy to crave
By Jonathan Bilyk n Photos provided by Brooke Anderson
Brooke Anderson wants to make sure everyone knows she's “not a people pleaser.”
But she and her husband, Matt, still want everyone who drops in for a meal at their restaurant, The Hideout Two, to leave smiling.
“I like when people are happy,” Brooke said. “The best moments in this business are when people tell us, 'That was phenomenal.'”
For the past five years, the Andersons have served up those moments at their restaurant, The Hideout. And they say those have only increased with the opening of their new location at the corner of U.S. 6 and Creek Road in Morris.
As Brooke tells the story, she and Matt always intended to open their restaurant — or at least she did.
When their romantic relationship began about a decade ago, Brooke said she told Matt she wanted to own her own restaurant one day and have four children. Brooke comes from a restaurant family background. She lived above the restaurants her parents owned and operated during her childhood.
“I remember walking downstairs and asking the cooks to make me a steak, and then heading back up with my dinner,” Brooke said with a laugh.
Amid tours with the Army National Guard, Brooke built her working life around restaurants, first as a waiter and later as a manager of a little place tucked away inside the Morris American Legion Post 294, known as The Hideout.
While Brooke didn't own that version
of the restaurant, she claims credit for the name.
“It was located inside the Legion, kind of hidden,” she said.
So when the previous owner asked her what she thought he should name it, the name just fit, she said.
About five years ago, however, The Hideout became available when the previous owner decided to step aside.
“So I talked with my husband, and I said, 'Remember how we said we were going to get a restaurant one day?' And then it became, 'I guess we're buying a restaurant now,'” Brooke said.
In 2024, another opportunity popped up they couldn't ignore: the former site of Aurelio's Pizza became available at 1505 Creek Drive in Morris.
While Brooke was deployed for a year in Kuwait with her National Guard unit, the Andersons grabbed the prime spot and set about opening what was then to be their second location, which they would call The Hideout Two.
Together with their “amazing assistant” Lisa, Matt worked with Brooke via phone calls, emails and video conferences to open and run their new restaurant as well as the original location while Brooke continued to serve in the Middle East.
Since her return in 2025, Brooke and Matt have worked with their team to turn The Hideout Two into their prime location. They turned out the lights on the original restaurant and put all their eggs in one basket — or burgers, in this instance.
The Andersons say the secret sauce to the success of The Hideout Two comes from two key ingredients, which, in the restaurant world, are not really a secret. First, Brooke said, is the menu, which was built by Matt and The Hideout's head cook themed around quality ingredients.
“The food is just really, really, phenomenally good,” Brooke said.
Top-selling menu items include The Hideout Two's array of specialty half-pound burgers, including the Crazy Bacon Burger, with white cheddar and four strips of bacon and bacon aioli, or the Classic Burger, which is a huge traditional cheeseburger, as the name implies.
For those with slightly smaller appetites, The Hideout also serves a 5-ounce version of The Classic, which they call the Tayah burger.
Brooke said the burger's appeal comes from its flavor, a secret seasoning blend created by The Hideout's kitchen crew.
Other favorites, Brooke said, include the weekly Friday fish fry; entree salads, including the Buffalo chicken salad and the Southwest shrimp salad; and chicken wings.
“Everyone just loves our wings,” said Brooke. “They rave about them.”
But the most popular and unique item on The Hideout's menu is likely its house specialty crawfish soup.
“We have people who drive long distances just to eat it and then take home cartons to go,” said Brooke. “It's that good.”
The Andersons said the menu is constantly in motion and updated every 8 to 12 months, with some older items rotating off and new additions joining the mix. In April, The Hideout Two launched its first breakfast menu, which they began offering on weekend mornings.
And specials are constantly being developed.
The restaurant also offers a full bar, with monthly creative drink and cocktail specials, which are just as fun to look at as they are to drink.
While the food brings people in, Brooke said, it's the service and “overall experience” that brings them back.
“We have our regulars, for sure, and we love them,” said Brooke. “But everyone is family here. And we love to make them happy.” C S R
MX and ATV riders find an off-road home at a rural Bureau County facility
by Jonathan Bilyk | Photos by Kyle Russell
As Jan Pistole sees it, the only thing that may compare to the atmosphere on race days at Sunset Ridge MX may be the actual sunsets, especially in the summer.
The stunning and picturesque views of the heavens found there are how the property earned its name, said Pistole, matriarch of the clan that has owned and operated the track since its inaugural heats.
But through the years, the real draw for the popular Bureau County motocross track — and the element that has kept people coming back by the thousands every year from all across the country — has been what Pistole describes as “our family atmosphere.”
“Everyone who comes through these gates, we consider our family,” Pistole said.
For the past quarter century, Sunset Ridge has welcomed its extended “family” to its dirt race course near Walnut from April to October for an annual array of offroad motorcycle races. The track specializes in motocross events. At its most basic, motocross is simply racing off-road motorbikes through dirt.
And that is where the story of Sunset Ridge began, Pistole said.
Nearly three decades ago, in the years before it officially evolved into
Sunset Ridge, Pistole's husband and two sons spent a good chunk of their time riding their own motorbikes on the property.
“It was basically pasture land,” Pistole said.
The Pistole family bought the property, however, and began to formally dedicate it to the sport they love, first building the initial version of the race course and then adding their family home to the property.
Just as the Sunset Ridge grounds didn't stay simple, so, too, the sport of motocross goes beyond its most basic elements.
At its highest level, the sport is not only physically demanding, but also elaborate and rather dangerous. The heats can feature dozens of racers at a time tearing over, around and through an array of various jumps, bumps, berms, corners and other obstacles and elements, on powerful dirt bikes, usually raced at around 30 to 45 mph, depending on the course, but capable of reaching speeds of 70 to 100 mph.
Since it debuted in the early 20th century, motocross has ballooned in popularity. Estimates are hard to pin down for how many people actually participate in events in the U.S. Officially, the American Motorcyclist Association reports more than 17,000 amateur youths, up to age 19, compete in sanctioned events each year.
Sunset Ridge MX American Motorcyclist Association and District 17 memberships are required to race at Sunset Ridge. The track opens for practice on select Wednesdays and weekends. (Membership is not required for practice days.)
Visit www.sunsetridgemx.com or follow on Facebook for advance announcements and updates. Call the track line at 815-379-9534 for the most up-to-date information.
THE MOTOCROSS
MOTOCROSS AT SUNSET RIDGE FAMILY
With hundreds of thousands of the kinds of motorcycles used in the sport registered across the U.S., the number of people participating either recreationally or in unofficial motocross-like events is likely to be much higher.
The sport also draws a huge following, with millions of people either riding or spectating.
Sunset Ridge welcomed its first official race in 2000.
2006, Pistole said.
Pistole said the track hosts up to 10 race events every season, typically welcoming 1,500 to 2,000 riders from as many as 38 states, with highest attendance coming in the years Sunset Ridge is selected to host a Loretta Lynn qualifying event.
As the track has grown in popularity, it also has continued to evolve.
In its early days, the Pistole family and their relatives ran it themselves.
The track landed on the national map in 2003, when it served as the site of a regional qualifying event for the world's largest amateur motocross race, the Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn's Ranch, or simply the Loretta Lynn's, as it’s known to those, like Pistole, on the inside of the sport.
In the more than two decades since, Sunset Ridge has become one of the most popular motocross destinations in Illinois.
Sunset Ridge also plays host to ATV races, often hosting ATV Motocross National Pro events. The ATV national circuit first dropped in at Sunset Ridge in
“At one time, it was understood, if your last name was Pistole, you were working at Sunset Ridge,” Pistole said with a laugh.
They have diversified their staff through the years, growing the Sunset Ridge family through their payroll, as well as races. And the commitment to maintaining the “family atmosphere” has never waned.
Sunset Ridge now boasts a campground for those attending races or practice events, as well as a country store and other amenities.
Pistole said she is most proud of the addition in 2005 of the track's private ambulance service. Sunset Ridge's service includes two state-licensed ambulances and a staff of inhouse EMT/paramedics to treat and transport those who are injured on the course.
She added Sunset Ridge EMS has “never charged anybody for the use of our ambulances.”
Unfortunately, she noted, injuries at motocross events are rather common. In some cases across the U.S., participants have died in accidents at events.
“It is obviously a dangerous sport, by nature,” Pistole said.
But Pistole said, next to creating a family atmosphere, Sunset Ridge prides itself on its promotion and record of safety.
“There are a lot of times where people come to an event here for the first time, and they say they can't believe we're making them do some things (related to health and safety),” Pistole said. “They say, 'No one else makes us do this.' And I say, 'Well, this is how we do it here.'”
Another big draw is the beautiful natural setting, including “golf course-like” lawns, wooded areas and the namesake sunsets and other celestial sights.
As Pistole tells it, in the early years, her husband welcomed friends from Chicago's northwest suburbs to the property to ride their bikes and camp in the woods. At the end of the day, however, they would regularly find them sitting on a ridge on the property, taking in the views.
“We asked why, and they said, 'This place just has the best sunsets,'” Pistole said with a laugh.
She noted the property also offers dark skies at night for amazing stargazing opportunities.
When it came time to give the property a name, Pistole said she and her husband agreed. Sunset Ridge was a perfect brand to welcome all the new members of their large and growing motocross family. C S R
ROCKS
The Rock and Soul owner Christy Donahue will tell you her shop is first and foremost a rock shop. She’s been a rock hound for 40 years and fills her shop with a vast inventory of gem and mineral specimens.
But there’s not only a lot to browse at the Utica shop, there’s also a lot to do and discover.
Each year, more than 500 students walk through the doors at 229 S. Clark St. to explore 500 million years of geological history. Many try their hand at mining gemstones at the shop’s outdoor sluice
box station, which has a miniature water tower and a trough that stretches 47 feet. When sluicing, children sift a pan of dirt through the station’s running water to reveal concealed gems.
Donahue said kids love to visit her shop.
“We do a lot of interaction with the children that come in. They all get something free when they come, but we also explain,” she said. “We bring them around and show them cool stuff like UV reactive stones and fossils they can find in the area.”
Kids are especially drawn to geode
By Stephanie Jaquins | Photos by reelCreative
cracking. Using a hand-cranked tool, staff help position each rock before it splits cleanly in half, revealing crystals inside. The activity is available year-round, while the outdoor sluice box operates during warmer months.
The sluice box is open to walk-ins during business hours. Families can choose from four sizes of sluicing bags, from the budget-conscious Paydirt bag with gemstones and minerals all the way to the Mega Strike bag, packed with fossils, shark teeth, arrowheads and a large crystal specimen.
THE SLUICE BOX
Looking for a family activity near Starved Rock State Park? Buy a sluicing bag at The Rock and Soul in Utica, then take kids outside to sift for the bag's treasures in the sluice box.
A special place to shop
For those who come in to view her rock inventory, Donahue said the interest is split between minerals, since the collection is so varied and big, and metaphysical crystals, which she’s spent the last eight years learning about.
Among the trays of sparkling gemstones and rugged mineral specimens lining the shelves, there are rocks from every continent in the world.
“Over the last 10 years, we’ve established connections with distributors all over the world. A lot of times our stuff is one step from the mine. Someone will dig it and sell it, and then we buy it. We’re very close to the source on all of our stuff.”
That connection, along with the shop’s atmosphere, is part of what keeps people coming back.
“We get thanked so much for making people feel good just because of the energy in our shop,” she said.
Beyond the retail space, The Rock and Soul also includes a sanctuary area, a wood-lined room featuring a double waterfall.
The business recently hosted a second annual gem and mineral show. The sanctuary also hosts classes for Mandala painting, which is a structured, circular design built around a central point, often used in spiritual practices for meditation and focus; classes for Zentangle, which is an abstract drawing created using repetitive patterns; and small wedding ceremonies.
Donahue also sells tarot cards and books about rocks, nature and other local interests. C S R
Four record stores for vinyl collectors and music buffs
By Derek Barichello
finding your GROOVE
X marks the spot for Horizons Music in Mendota. That is, because it will feel like discovering a hidden treasure for vinyl collectors. Located in a warehouse off the beaten path (literally in the middle of a neighborhood at the intersection of 14th Street and Milwaukee Avenue in Mendota), Horizons Music houses more than a million items with titles like Zager and Evans, Splatcats and The Rainbow Band.
You likely won’t find the latest Taylor Swift record, or even familiar stocks. This is a destination for the deep divers. Horizons boasts that it specializes in “out of print” or “hard to find” releases. Obscure and forgotten 1960s, ’70s and ’80s releases are stashed in cardboard boxes within the spacious 5,000-square-foot liquidation
room. There’s jazz, blues, country, rock and soul, including imports. Many of them are still sealed and reasonably priced, between $3 and $15. There’s more than 50,000 CDs, cassettes, LPs and 12-inch dance singles.
The business is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, but it’s recommended to call 815-539-3775 to confirm your visit. Follow the sidewalk to a door on the side of the building that has the office number posted on it for the entrance. A staff member will guide first-time visitors through hallways to the warehouse floor. Shoppers also can peruse the more than 121,000 different titles online at www.horizonsmusic.com.
Cash is recommended for on-site shopping, with potential discounts available.
Photo by Elena Chelysheva / Getty Images
BLUE JAY WAY RECORDS
615 S. Main St., Princeton 815-872-1935
If you’re looking for familiar classics and some well-curated new releases, Blue Jay Way Records in downtown Princeton is a destination. With a plentiful bargain bin, full of vinyl gems all less than $10, the store also features an A to Z selection of rock, country and R&B. Owner Jim Lovejoy is a music lover and engages customers.
VINYL REVIVAL
113 W. Washington St., Morris 815-763-6021 | www.vinylrevivalmorris.com
Downtown Morris is home to another beacon for music lovers. Vinyl Revival features a number of new releases plus an active and plentiful new arrivals section. Prices are reasonable and there are titles spanning from A to Z in country, hip hop, rock and other genres.
THE VERANDA
221 E. Main St., Streator 815-992-2424
A trip to The Veranda in downtown Streator is like walking through a time capsule. With thousands of records on the shelves, 45 collectors will be in heaven. There won’t be any new releases here, but customers will find rows of classic country, rock and jazz albums, from artists such as Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Everly Brothers, etc.
CHECK BEFORE YOU HIKE
By Maribeth M. Wilson and Julie Barichello
An $18 million trail upgrade is underway at Starved Rock State Park, meaning hikers may encounter trail closures in sections of the park this summer and fall.
Upon completion, the project will allow the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to expand hiking and recreational opportunities. The park, Starved Rock Lodge and other amenities will remain open throughout construction, with access to certain trails restricted.
One set of trails undergoing improvement this summer is the system accessing French Canyon, which is expected to remain closed through June. Closures include trailhead access to the top of the canyon as well as the French Canyon trail near Starved Rock Lodge's parking lot and the French Canyon trail behind the Visitor Center. The closures also include parts of Brown Bluff and Campanula trails.
Hikers will encounter other trail closures this summer, including the decade-long restricted access to Tonti Canyon and Tonti Bridge as well as the trail connecting La Salle and Tonti canyons. Tonti Canyon has remained out-of-bounds for years due
to severe trail erosion and hazardous hiking conditions. The west entrance's staircase to the boat ramp also is closed.
Hikers should not access areas with construction signage and caution tape.
Upcoming improvement plans include renovating or replacing 10 trail bridges, installing three new timber stairways and adding timber boardwalks with fencing in the Tonti Canyon and La Salle Canyon trail systems. Crews also will replace three existing trail bridges and several timber stairways and expand the boardwalk from the Lower French Canyon River Trail Bridge to the existing stairway on Jacob’s Ladder. Projects are planned to improve Campanula Trail, the River Trail and the Pontiac Canyon trail.
IDNR Assistant Director Todd Strole said Starved Rock is the most visited park in the IDNR system, attracting 2.4 million visitors in 2024 and making it an economic driver for the region.
“With that much foot traffic, a lot of deterioration occurs to the trails, paths, bridges, stairways and retaining walls — all critical to the trail system,” Strole said.
He added that wear and tear have forced some trail closures, which may
Left to right: Abby, Janet, Chris, Noah, Luke, Nathan, Brock
have caused visitors to stray off designated paths, risking their safety. Hikers are advised to remain on marked trails at all times.
Beyond improving safety, the project will help IDNR control erosion and protect plants and wildlife from excessive foot traffic.
Most visible construction, which may include transporting materials by barge and helicopter to remote park areas, will occur throughout 2026. Construction will be staggered to minimize trail closures at any one time, IDNR reported.
The Illinois Capital Development Board is managing the project as part of a $37.2 million state investment in Starved Rock. This also includes building a sanitary wastewater system, upgrading the water filtration system and replacing vault toilets.
“This project will enhance pedestrian trail accessibility and refurbish the iron filtration system at Starved Rock,” CDB Executive Director TJ Edwards said. “We are proud to partner with IDNR to improve this key recreational destination while minimizing disruptions for visitors.”
Visitors planning trips should check the park’s website and Facebook page for trail accessibility updates. Trails west of the lodge and east of Parkman’s Plain will not be affected. C S R
MORE GREAT HIKES IN STARVED ROCK COUNTRY
Starved Rock State Park is the region's most popular hiking destination, and parking lots tend to reach capacity on summer weekends. Early arrival (typically before 10 a.m.) is recommended. If the park is closed due to capacity, or for people who want to avoid crowds, consider visiting one of these hiking destinations. These hikes can also be paired with a day at Starved Rock, either as a warmup before hiking the canyons and bluffs of Starved Rock or as a capstone to the day.
Canal trails
The Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail spans much of Starved Rock Country, from Morris in the east to La Salle in the west. Farther west is the Hennepin Canal Trail in Bureau County. Both paths are accessible, level hikes that are also extremely popular for bicyclists. Canal hikes are popular for wildlife sighting, especially waterfowl and turtles.
Dayton Bluffs Preserve
Highlights of Dayton Bluffs Preserve include a large restored prairie, several miles of trail through woodlands, riverside trails, Native American burial mounds and a trail to a pioneer cemetery. The park includes a mix of easy prairie and woodland paths. For a more challenging hike, follow the riverside trail up to the bluff trail, which includes a strenuous incline nicknamed "heart attack hill." A rope is installed to help hikers climb or descend the steep hill.
Buffalo Rock State Park
Buffalo Rock State Park has a level, short trail system along a sandstone bluff that overlooks the Illinois River. The stars of the park are Cocoa and Hope, the resident bison.
Warnecke Woods
This short-distance trail system near Princeton is an easy hike for adults and children. A small patch of prairie blooms in mid to late summer, and trails weave through the nearby woods. If drivers encounter a Road Closed sign near the intersection of Route 26 and County Road 1990, proceed past the sign and continue following the route to the park. Access to County Road 1835, which leads to Warnecke Woods, is located before the road closure.
Looking for a great deal on golfing in and around Starved Rock Country? Pick up the 2026 Starved Rock Country Discount Golf Card!
This card entitles you to one round of golf with a free cart for a $29 green fee at 13 regional golf courses. Players must schedule tee times for each course before playing. The Discount Golf Card can be used by signature player only and is good through Dec. 31, 2026. For more information or to reserve your golf card, visit StarvedRockCountry.DailyDealbuilder.com.
This 9-hole municipal golf course in Streator can trace its origins back to the early 1920s. The layout of this course has changed very little in the last 100 years, with the exception of a new clubhouse and larger trees. Anderson Fields is lauded for being a simple, convenient and affordable course.
DWIGHT COUNTRY CLUB
www.dwightcountryclub.com
This 18-hole semi-private course in Dwight, southeastern Starved Rock Country, pairs a quiet and calm country setting with easy access to Interstate 55. Founded in 1913, this course is known to have an excellent layout and top-notch food in their clubhouse restaurant.
EDGEWOOD PARK GOLF CLUB
www.edgewoodparkgolfclub.com
This 18-hole golf course in McNabb prides itself on posing a challenge to intermediate and semi-pro golfers. After playing the 6,763-yard par 73 course, visit the 19th Hole Bar & Grill for hot dogs, pizza and a fully stocked bar. The signature hole is Hole 14, a 513-yard par 5.
EARLVILLE COUNTRY CLUB
Follow Earlville Country Club on Facebook
This 9-hole public course in Earlville, north central Starved Rock Country, is known for its winding valley fairways and tree-lined roughs. A small but challenging country course, the Earlville Golf Club is an inexpensive par 32 that’s well worth the drive.
MENDOTA GOLF CLUB
www.mendotagolfclub.com
This 18-hole semi-private course in Mendota, northwestern Starved Rock Country, features more than 140 acres of beautiful rolling hills. Mendota takes meticulous care of its greens and boasts five notoriously challenging par 3 holes. Complete with a bar, dining room and pro shop, Mendota is one of the best options for golfing in the northern portion of the region.
SENICA’S OAK RIDGE
www.senicagolf.com
This 18-hole course near Interstate 39 and Interstate 80 in La Salle is a true golfer’s delight. Senica’s Oak Ridge is masterfully designed to utilize the area’s natural beauty. The grounds feature a 6,900-yard par 72 championship golf course. Gently rolling bentgrass fairways weave their way through a challenging landscape of oak woodlands, past five lakes, along a meandering creek and over 49 sandtraps. Water hazards come into play on Hole 13. The three sets of tees allow players of all abilities to enjoy the course.
SPRING CREEK GOLF COURSE
www.springcreek-golfcourse.com
This 18-hole semi-private course in Spring Valley, located off I-80's Exit 70, is built around three tenants: mature trees, challenging layouts and affordable fees. This heavily wooded course is dotted with hazards and elevation changes. Four of Spring Creek’s holes – 12, 13, 14 and 15 – are so legendary that they’ve earned the nickname “Hail Mary Corner,” so if you’re looking for a challenge while you’re in Starved Rock Country, Spring Creek is a solid option.
WYATON HILLS GOLF COURSE
www.facebook.com/WyatonHillsGolfCourse
This 9-hole public course in rural Princeton features rolling fairways and elevated greens. The greens are known to have deceptive slopes that even veteran golfers will consider an enjoyable challenge. Wyaton Hills also includes a driving range and a pro shop.
MORE COURSES
Other golf courses near Starved Rock Country featured in the 2026 golf card include:
l Fairways Golf Course, Rochelle: 18 holes
l Hidden Lake Golf Club, Sheffield: 18 holes
l Indian Oaks Country Club, Shabbona: 9 holes
l Midland Golf Club, Kewanee: 18 holes
l Shady Oaks Country Club, Sublette: 18 holes
HISTORY Hidden
TIMOTHY BLACKSTONE
& Mendota's railroad legacy
In Chicago, Blackstone is a prominent name.
Chiefly, it is associated with the landmark 21-story Blackstone Hotel on Michigan Avenue, which opened in 1910. There also is the 1904 Blackstone Memorial Library — the first branch of the Chicago Public Library — and the 1905 Blackstone Hall at the Art Institute of Chicago. Additionally, there is Blackstone Avenue on Chicago’s South Side, whose name was adopted around 1960 by a street gang that first became known as the Blackstone Rangers.
In every case, the Blackstone name refers to multimillionaire Timothy Blackstone (1829-1900), a railroad executive and businessman with a strong connection to La Salle County, a central area in Starved Rock Country.
Story and photos provided by Charles Stanley
Mendota Union Depot mural
Timothy Blackstone
Now there are plans by the Mendota Museum & Historical Society to commission a historical marker about Blackstone’s impact on the city of Mendota, situated on the northern edge of Starved Rock Country. It is planned for placement this fall in a square-block park already named in his honor, said Executive Director Alex Revzan.
Blackstone was a native of Connecticut. In 1847, he became a surveyor working for railroad developer Roswell Mason. In 1861, Mason recruited Blackstone to help with the construction of the Illinois Central Railroad. The route started in Cairo and split in Centralia, with one branch going to Chicago and the other to Galena for a total of 705 miles of track. Blackstone’s assignment was from Dixon south to Bloomington.
Blackstone settled in La Salle, where he proved popular. In 1854, he was elected as the town’s mayor for a term of one year. His service is remembered there by Blackstone Street, a one-block dead-end residential roadway on the east side of town.
The book “Magnificent Whistle Stop,” the 1953 centennial history of Mendota, explains how political rivals Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas cooperated in securing legislative support for the first ever land-grant railroad. Under that system, public land was conveyed to railroad companies to sell in order to help finance railroad construction. It was a period of rapid growth for railroads in Illinois.
In 1850, Illinois had 110 miles of railroad. By 1856, the Illinois Central’s 705 miles made it the world’s longest railroad. And by 1860, the state had 11 rail lines with 2,867 miles of track.
Blackstone had purchased the land, laid out the town and then helped Mendota develop. He also became a generous town benefactor. At Blackstone School in Mendota, there is a mounted tribute to its namesake.
“Blackstone was a generous friend to our town as he donated the land this school is built on as well as freely giving land for churches, parks and other civic needs,” it says in part. “[He] generously helped the poor and downtrodden and ranked among the leading citizens of the state and nation.”
Blackstone moved on to Chicago and up the ladder of success. In 1861, he became president of the Joliet and Chicago Railroad and later became the first president of the company that controlled Chicago’s Union Stock Yards.
Blackstone prospered as an investor. When he died, he left an estate of about $7 million — today the approximate equivalent to a quarter of a billion dollars.
The new focus on Blackstone is appropriate, said Ray Tutaj of Mendota.
Tutaj is steeped in local railroad lore. As a boy, he lived next to the Illinois Central tracks, first in La Salle and later in Mendota, where he also regularly played in Blackstone Park.
“So I was bitten by the train bug a long time ago,” he said. “The railroad literally was my front yard. As kids, Mom and Dad would say go out and play — and we would play on the train cars. If Mom and Dad only knew.”
Your jump off point for all the area’s activities. Five minutes from Psycho Silo Saloon. Close to Starved Rock State Park, biking on the Z-Tour trails, the charm of downtown Princeton, Owen Lovejoy Homestead, and more.
Explore Our Campground
Spacious Full Hookup Sites • Big Rig Friendly Cabin Rentals • Pool • Dog Park • Kayak Launch to Canal Fishing • Access to the Park & Canal for Miles of Biking/ Walking • 2 Miles North of I-80. 7478 1745 North Ave., Sheffield, IL 61361 (815) 454-2600 • www.hickorygrovecamp.com
For more information about the Mendota Museum & Historical Society, visit www.mendotamuseums.org or call 815-539-3373. C S R 1219 Fulton Street, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-0478 chzshop1@gmail.com
HIDDEN HISTORY takes a closer look at interesting but lesser known moments in Starved Rock Country’s past.
It might have been the surprise of an early morning shower, or perhaps the water was a bit cold. Either way, this sheep was not happy about getting a bath before entering the show ring at the annual La Salle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair in Ottawa.
Catch the sights and events of this year's fair July 9-12 at the La Salle County Fairgrounds in Ottawa.
Photo by Tom Sistak
Starved Rock Country
EET ME IN
Experience the charm of Princeton’s Historic Main Street, ...........where beautifully decorated storefronts and unique boutiques create the perfect shopping destination Savor a meal at a family-owned restaurant, unwind at our local brewery,
and relax with a stay in a charming Airbnb or hotel Explore our landmarks, museums, parks, or enjoy a seasonal event for a memorable getaway! Meet me in Princeton!
