Pecatonica, ILLINOIS
150 years
A quick look back Forward Compiled by: Micheal Eaton
Photo taken from the old water tower on 4th street overlooking the downtown area of Pecatonica, Ill Circa 1900-1910. PHOTO COURTESY OF PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
Information collected by members of the Pecatonica Historical Society in Pecatonica, Illinois.
The brief history contained in the pages of this booklet is not complete in every detail. At best, it is minute by direction of the Village of Pecatonica Sesquicentennial Committee. The information has been collected from numerous sources including old history books, newspapers, and the first 100-year Centennial booklet published in 1969. It is our hope that it will give pleasure to all who read it. Pecatonica Historical Society Sesquicentennial Committee.
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PEC ATONIC A
SMALL TOWN BRIGHT FUTUR E
Village of Pecatonica
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
405 Main Street, Pecatonica, IL • 815-239-2310 Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. villageofpecatonica.com
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Bill Smull Village President
Bill Determan Board of Trustees
Kathy Doty Board of Trustees
Tom Gipe Board of Trustees
Paula Hachmeister Board of Trustees
Jennifer Johnson Board of Trustees
Marilyn Wilke Board of Trustees
Gwenn Shirley Village Clerk
Darla Stram Asst. Village Clerk
Nick Berry Public Works Director
Doug Williams Public Works Foreman
Brad Grunder Public Works
Wade Tipton Public Works
Bob Smith Police Dept.
Joe Naser Police Dept.
Jeff Stacy Police Dept.
Congratulations to Pecatonica on its 150th Anniversary!
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The FIRST VILLAGE
n Sept. 19, 1835, five people arrived from New England, Ephraim Sumner, his brother, William Sumner, their sister Mrs. Dolly Guilford, her son Elijah Guilford, and Thomas Hance. The Sumners came from Darien, New York, and Ephraim “took up a claim” two miles southeast of the Peeketolika River near what will become the new Illinois state road in 1837. In 1836 Winnebago County is formed from Jo Daviess and LaSalle Counties, and made up of seven Precincts. The area located in the middle section of Winnebago becomes the Peeketolika Precinct – which is named after the river – and covers what will eventually become the townships of Seward, Lysander, and Burritt. In the fall of 1836, the new Peeketolika precinct experiences a brisk tide of immigration and begins filling with settlers from New England with most hailing from the Empire state, New York. The village of Twelve Mile Grove begins as a smattering of stone and log homes built among a big grove of oak trees south of the state road we know today as US20. As new settlers continue to arrive in 1842 Ephraim Sumner builds a stone house in the new village, which is used as a tavern half way between Rockford and Freeport. The tavern becomes a stopping place for the Frink and Walker line of stages and stands for over 70 years before
being razed in 1914. During the 1840s when post offices were established, they were given names. The Twelve Mile Grove post office was named Vanceborough after the first postmaster, John E. Vance. Later, Ephraim Sumner would also be postmaster as the Frink & Walker became US mail carriers and stopped at his tavern. For over 15 years, the village of Twelve Mile Grove continues to grow and prosper. There are families and business beginning to locate in the new village plus stores, a church, and school. West minded settlers continue to pass through the little village due to its location which adds to hustle and bustle of daily life. By the early 1850s however, there will be hard times ahead for both the village, and stage line that services it. The Galena Railroad is coming and it will change everything. Twelve Mile Grove is going to be bypassed as it cannot provide the one thing the Galena needs most, water. In 1848 the building of the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad begins with the newly laid rails heading west out of Chicago extending to the Des Plaines River. This is the first railroad ever built out of Chicago and will come to be known as the grandfather of the largest railroad network in the world. The Galena Railroad line reaches Belvidere by 1851 touching off a serious confrontation within the railroad-managing group. Some want to turn the railroad
southward to Savannah and cross the Mississippi River. Others want to continue building the railroad westward to Freeport. In the end, the western direction wins out. This is important because if the southern route wins, there will be no Pecatonica. Under construction for 3 years now the original mission of the railroad is beginning to change. No longer concerned with hauling lead from mines in Northwestern Illinois, (its original mission), the Galena is turning its attention to hauling passengers and grain. Apparently, in mid-19th century Illinois, there is more wealth in grain than in lead ore. In 1851 Winnebago County modifies its form of local government and changes Precincts to Townships. The old name Peeketolika gives way to new names that are common to the area. Burritt is to the east, Seward to the south, Howard (later renamed Durand) to the north, and Township 27, range 10 is named Lysander. A familiar name Lysander is charted and picks a supervisor, road commissioners, tax collectors and a town clerk. Lysander’s first supervisor is Ezra Cable and like many of the new settlers, he has family that hails from Lysander New York. As new townships and villages appear across northern Illinois, names like Lysander are reminders of the old places where the settlers once belonged. Cicero, Batavia, Lysander, Woodstock, Cherry Valley, Marengo, and Chemung, all names
1836 Surveyor’s map of Northern Illinois. Only three counties exist, Jo Davies, (spelled then as Joe Davies), Winnebago, & Mc Henry. Townships Lysander, Seward, & Burritt are shown circled. In 1836 they have been gridded, but not yet surveyed or named; Photo courtesy of Micheal Eaton PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
CHAPTER 1
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Here in Pecatonica, River’s Edge Bible Church is a family of believers in Jesus Christ, who love our community. Our desire is for people to truly know what the Bible teaches and to live it out in their lives – which can take a lifetime. We provide opportunity for people of all ages to not just attend a church, but be living as the church. Our goal is to see lives in Pecatonica filled with joy and peace in the midst of the challenges of life. Check out the links above for more information.
Celebrating 150 years along with our wonderful community!
CHAPTER 1
1837 Surveyor’s map of Northern Illinois, which show the number of townships yet to be surveyed.
that are part of the Galena can continue west. landscape of the Empire During the midState, and now the nineteenth century steam Prairie State as well. locomotive technology is On Aug. 2, 1852 still developing as engines the old wood-burning continue to increase in locomotive Pioneer power, and speed. There rumbles into East were limits however on Rockford. A crowd how far the boilers can rings church bells and go before needing to refill fires cannon to welcome their water tanks. it. Even though the In the 1850s a steam Galena has made it to locomotive could only Rockford the line is now travel between 7 to 8 miles in trouble. There is no before needing to stop and bridge for the railroad refill its boiler with water. to cross the Rock This is why Winnebago is Thomas Duncan Robertson River. There had been 8 miles from Pecatonica, one earlier, but it was and 7 miles from then 1852 washed away the previous spring during Rockford. And Pecatonica was about 8 a terrible flood. For now, the railroad is miles from Nevada, and Nevada 7 miles stalled at the river and can go no further. from Freeport. Once an early source of transportation, the You can see it all across the map, Rock River has now become a formidable villages never farther apart than 8 miles. barrier to it. It will take almost another year Closer to Chicago there were already before a new bridge is completed and the existing villages so distance wasn’t such
a problem. Further out however, where there were no villages at all, the Galena Railroad created them. Such as Winnebago, Pecatonica and Nevada. And later Ridott when Nevada failed. This fact will doom one village, Twelve Mile Grove, and create another, Pecatonica. Pecatonica will be located on the river with an endless supply of water. Twelve Mile Grove is located on one of the highest ridges in Western Winnebago County will never be able to compete. In the end, as Pecatonica rises, Twelve Mile Grove fades away. During the latter part of 1852 Daniel Reed lays out a village in Sections 28 and 29 of Lysander Township. His village is just south of the Pecatonica River in a large grove of oak trees. Reed has the area officially surveyed and recorded by the Surveyor of Winnebago County, Duncan Ferguson. On Dec. 11, 1852, Ferguson’s papers and a plat map of the new village of Pecatonica are filed at the Winnebago county courthouse in Rockford. Later that same day, Dec. 11, 1852, the
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 1
Sumner Inn, Stage Coach Stop, & Post office.
newly recorded village of Pecatonica is sold by Daniel and Polly Reed through a Warranty Deed to Rockford real estate investor Thomas Duncan Robertson. The Reed’s retain an investment percentage of the village through Robertson’s company, and earn a return on the sale of each lot. Robertson is a huge supporter of the new railroad, and a leader in the movement to bring the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad to Rockford. He is also in charge of the collection of subscriptions to the capital stock of the railroad in Boone, Ogle, and Winnebago Counties. A well-liked and respected business man, Thomas D. Roberson is an attorney by profession but turned to banking and real estate after arriving in Rockford during the 1830s. By early 1853 his real-estate company begins to sell lots in the new village and Pecatonica begins to grow. Mr. Robertson is as much the father of Pecatonica as one can be, and his involvement in the new village will continue for many years to come. While planning his new village Mr. Reed began the construction of the Pecatonica Hotel at the corner of Main and Third streets. It was used as his residence first until the coming of the railroad after which he converted his building to a hotel. A short time after the opening of the railroad to public traffic, Sullivan Daniels, son-in-
1851 ledger book from Lysander Township.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF FAYE HILTON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 1
An 1860 map of the Galena & Chicago Union Railroad.
Old Pioneer” Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
The Galena & Chicago Union Railroad Company.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
law of Daniel Reed Sr., took possession of the hotel building and christened it the Pecatonica House and opened its doors to the public. By late August of 1853 the Galena reaches the new railroad town of Pecatonica. Lots in the village are being sold by the company Robertson, Coleman, and Company. In just 9 months the price being paid for a lot has skyrocketed. Houses are now being built around the depot where some double as retail stores and living quarters. M. F. Maynard builds his house and grocery store north of the tracks on the west side of main street. It is considered the earliest known house on main street but will be lost to construction of a second railroad 50 years later, the Electric Interurban. In September, 1853 the Galena and Chicago Union railroad, began the delivery and receipt of freight with Josiah Stevens as station superintendent. The first shipment of
STOCK GRAPHIC; PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 1
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Water Tank and windmill in Pecatonica Illinois. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
freight from the Pecatonica station was made Sept. 1, 1853. By 1855 Pecatonica begins its age of growth and prosperity. Crops are plentiful with markets readily available through the Galena Railroad. Wheat is two dollars per bushel. Money becomes abundant with stores opening up all over town. The business district begins to grow with retail stores filling in both sides of Main Street. By 1856 there are several large dry goods stores operating in Pecatonica with a population to support them.
CHAPTER 1 Township government Lysander is well established. In mid-19th century Northern Illinois, townships are responsible for taxes, roads, and schools. There are ten schools throughout the township, with 13 teachers and 437 scholars. The average school year lasts about seven-and-a-half months. By comparison across the county, Lysander is behind only the townships of Howard, and Rockford, in the size of their Principal School Fund.
Incorporation:
One hundred and fifty years ago, the village of Pecatonica in the township of Lysander decides to incorporate and petitions the state government
The Pecatonica House built in 1852.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
The train depot in Pecatonica, Illinois circa 1910. This is the C&NW line 9 originally Galena and Chicago Union Railroad from Rockford, Illinois to Freeport where the line met the Illinois Central.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 1 for the right to do so. The Illinois 26th General Assembly passes an Act of Incorporation, with the proper instructions for lawful incorporation of the village of Pecatonica. The act also informs the township of Lysander it will no longer have jurisdiction over the village of Pecatonica. A village wide vote on the first Monday in April of 1869 at the Pecatonica Hotel passes and Pecatonica incorporates. The township of Lysander decides to change its name to Pecatonica and petitions the Illinois state government for the right to do so. Mr. Ephraim Sumner introduces House Bill HR 504 in the Illinois House of Representatives for an act to change the name of the township of Lysander in Winnebago County. This is interesting because even though Mr. Sumner is a state representative, he is also the Township Supervisor of Lysander as well. The vote was taken in the Illinois House on Feb. 6, and carries by a count of 66 to 1 – Mr. Woodson votes “No”. When the vote is taken in the Illinois Senate on March 9, 1869, it carries by a count of 20 to 1 – Mr. Epler also votes “No.” The Township of Lysander’s name change to Pecatonica becomes effective three days before the village of Pecatonica incorporates and the name Lysander passes quietly into history. A view of Pecatonica from the 1870s. PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Serving the village since 1946 We are a full service Veterinary Clinic with a climate-controlled boarding facility & Sunday pick-up between 5-6 p.m. available Mon.-Sat. - 8am-12pm • Mon. - 2pm-8pm Tues., Thurs., Fri, - 2pm-6pm
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SCHOOLS
CHAPTER 2
Villa Halstead’s home on Main Street in Pecatonica. The shed to the left is considered by early Pecatonica Historians to be one of Pecatonica’s first schools. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
The first public School ever built in Pecatonica; an 8-classroom affair built in1862. PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
he first schools in Pecatonica were conducted in private dwellings or small buildings erected for that purpose. Prior to the building of the public-school house, there were four places where as many teachers were employed in the serious matter of teaching. One of these places was the old woodshed which once stood on the property of Mrs. Vila Halstead Smith, at Main and East Fifth street. By 1862 it was decided Pecatonica needed a public-school system and school free to everyone in the village. The first village school was built and opened in November of 1862 and was in service until being replaced in 1894. After a quarter of a century the wooden school built in 1862 was over crowded. Twice a proposition to build a new and larger school was defeated. The third time it carried and the district (86) was bonded in the summer of 1894. The frame building was sold, torn down, and a brick building erected, which housed both grade and high school for 36 years. In 1930 District 209, which had been formed in 1920 voted to bond the district and erect quarters for a new Pecatonica Community High School. This building was erected in 1930 just south of the old 1894 brick school and becomes the Pecatonica high school. The 1894 building is converted for use as grade school. Ransom L. Bradley, of Davis, Illinois was hired in 1929 as superintendent of schools and served in that capacity until 1948. In the mid-forties numerous small schools dotted the countryside, where the three R’s were ably taught from grades one through eight. There was, however, a rising tide of sentiment in favor of school consolidations and school survey committees were named to compile reports on the matter. In early 1948 the school survey reports concerning consolidation, were being discussed in Winnebago County. In March, 1948, petitions were placed on file with the County Superintendent of Schools from Burritt, Seward, Winnebago and Pecatonica townships seeking consolidation of these townships into one school district. In April of that same year, the voters in these townships, by a vote of 789 to 209 favored such consolidation and District No. 321 came into being. A board of education was elected and Charles J. Dintleman, of Fulton, Illinois was named superintendent. L.C. Gassman, an instructor in the Pecatonica schools since 1930 was named principal of the
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
Happy 150th anniversary!
U.S. Bank is proud to support the Pecatonica Sesquicentennial.
CHAPTER 2
1930 High School. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Above: The new brick school built to replace the wooden framed one. Known by locals as “the old brick school,” Pecatonica’s second public school building was built in 1894 at a cost of $20,000 dollars. It would stand for 76 years before becoming a casualty of Illinois school building codes.
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
Founded in 1961, Hack’s Auction & Realty Services, Inc. is a third generation family owned and operated business in Pecatonica, IL. Conducting 200+ auctions annually, including: Farm Land, Estate, Real Estate, Fine Antiques and Collectibles, Firearms, Coins, Toys, Construction and Farm Equipment, Business Liquidations, Specialty, Benefit and Fund Raising Auctions, Hack’s also offers Appraisal Events for local organizations. Hack’s is a recognized leader in the auction industry and strives to achieve success for our clients through professional and progressive means. Hack’s is a full-service, full-time, fully-insured auction company. Licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin, we service a wide area. We are Federal Firearm’s Licensed Dealers. Hack’s can conduct an auction for you at your home or business or at our Hack’s Antique Center located in Pecatonica. At our house or yours, Hack’s has provided quality, honest and professional service for the past 58 years. Our story began over 58 years ago when Henry ‘Hack’ and Nancy Hachmeister conducted their first auction at the First Congregational Church of Pecatonica in June of 1961. Hack’s Auction & Realty Service, Inc. proudly continues today under the auspices of Henry ‘Hack’ and Nancy Hachmeister’s children, grandchilden and family members. Hack’s looks forward to working with you and your family through Pecatonica’s next 150 years!
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CHAPTER 2
Pecatonica High School, photo Cir. 1940s.
Pecatonica grade and high school. Things moved smoothly for a time, but as plans for a new centralized school began to be discussed, an undercurrent of discord became evident. Three sites were eventually voted upon but no school ever graced any of them. Finally, in August of 1954 the district was split by the County Board of School Trustees. The split was affirmed in February, 1955 by Circuit Judge O’Sullivan and the Pecatonica District became district No. 321. A school
board having been elected, L. C. Gassman was named superintendent. With an everincreasing number of students, in 1957 a new high school was erected in the southern section of the village. In 1962 a 12-classroom addition was built onto the grade school and in 1967 the high school was enlarged. By the late 1960’s the old brick school from 1894 was really showing its age, and sorely lacking in modern safety codes. It was decided by the community the best
move would be to build a new school rather than spend the money it would require to bring the old school up to code. So, in the summer of 1970 the old school came down to make way for a new and safer building that was built in 1970 -71. By the late 1990s it becomes apparent yet again there is need for additional class room space so a new High School is built in a field south of 12th street facing main. This is known as the 2002 High School and houses grades 9–12th.
Pecatonica High School built in 1957.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 2
1894 Pecatonica School in 1970 just before demolition.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF BILL MINDERS Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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1894 Pecatonica School in 1970 during demolition. PHOTO COURTESY OF BILL MINDERS Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
CHAPTER 2
Pecatonica Grade School, 1970 Addition. Grades K -4th.
Pecatonica Grade School; 1962 Addition.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BROCKWAY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 2
2002 Pecatonica High School. Grades 9-12. PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
The old 1957 high school shown in 2019 is now the Pecatonica Middle School. Grades 5–8. PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BROCKWAY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
Mary Raymer 903 Taylor St., Pecatonica
Fresh & Silk Flowers • Plants • Balloons • Gifts Greeting Cards • Fannie May Candy • Candles — Wire & Delivery Service — 315 Main Street, Pecatonica, IL (815) 239-2455 • Fax: (815) 239-2454 www.forgetmenotfloralshop.com forgetmenotfloral@aol.com Lori McNamer
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All types of tax returns
CHAPTER 2
Above: The old 1930 Pecatonica High School in 2019 is now the Pecatonica Grade School. Grades K -4th. PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BROCKWAY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
At left: The old 1930 Pecatonica High School and 62 addition in 2019 is the Pecatonica grade school. Grades K -4th.
There will be only one more year left in the old school, as demolition would start in the summer of 1970.
Pecatonica School Museum.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHURCHES
CHAPTER 3
THE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The United Methodist Church of Pecatonica was built in 1868 and still with us today in 2019. During the day of the new church’s dedication, the Galena Railroad ran special trains from Rockford and Freeport because so many wanted to attend. And now 151 years later, it is still beautiful, and still going strong!
THE UNIVERSALIST CHURCH The Universalist Church was established in Pecatonica in 1857 and a small wooden church was built on Main Street and Fourth St. by 1862. It served the Pecatonica area for the next 50 years, by 1918 the Universalist congregation had disbanded and the church was torn down to make way for a new house. In 1913 the Universalist Church was also used by First Congregational for their services while they built their new brick church.
ST JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH St John’s Lutheran church was built in 1887 and used by the faithful until the 1970s when they constructed a new church on Jackson Street. The old Lutheran church was sold and repurposed several times until finally becoming a private dwelling. But now in 2019, this beautiful building from Pecatonica’s past is occupied once again with a congregation known as Connecting Point Church.
United Methodist Church Cir 1910. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
ST MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH In 1874 Father Birch purchased the present church property at Reed & Fifth Streets in Pecatonica. A small house on this property served as a church and rectory until a frame wooden church was built in 1883. The church lasted until 1922 when it was replaced by a new brick church.
FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH The First Congregational Church of Pecatonica was built in 1855 at the Northwest corner of Reed and 6th Street. It was known by the Pecatonica community in those days as the “brick church”. It was remodeled in 1876 and replaced in 1913 by the larger present-
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The United Methodist Church 2019. PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
CHAPTER 3
Universalist Church Cir 1910. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Universalist Church Cir 1918. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH First Lutheran Church was founded in 1857 and their beginning church was built on the corner of Eighth & Taylor streets. By 1881 their church was too small to accommodate their growing congregation and it was sold and moved to east fourth street where it became the home of the Pecatonica News. One year later in 1882, First Lutheran built their present church and have kept it updated with additions throughout the years.
St John’s Lutheran Church; 1969. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
SWEDISH MISSION CHURCH The old Swedish Church is still with us today but not as a church. After disbanding in 1880s, the Mission church stood empty for a number of years. It was eventually sold and moved from the south west corner of Telegraph & Taylor, to Sixth street where it was used as the Prairie View Grange hall.
St John’s Lutheran Church. On Jackson Street - 2019.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
day structure we know today.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BROCKWAY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 3
First Baptist Church of Pecatonica 2019. PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BROCKWAY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Connecting Point Church 2019.
First Baptist Church of Pecatonica 1969.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
– Daily FooD & Drink SpecialS – CONGRATULATIONS ON 150 YEARS!
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Happy 150th, Pecatonica!
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
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Phone 239-1853 • Fax 239-1371 320 Reed St., Pecatonica, IL
351318
404 Main Street • Pecatonica, IL
NITE EQUIPMENT INC. 2388 N. Conger Road Pecatonica, IL 61063 Phone: 815-239-9096 Fax: 815-239-9032 www.niteequip.com
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CHAPTER 3
St. Mary’s Catholic Church built of wood in 1883.
River’s Edge Bible Church.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
By 1968 the Grange hall was unoccupied and the building was sold again and eventually converted into a family dwelling.
St. Mary’s Catholic Church built in 1922 as it appears today in 2019. PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
In 1958 the First Baptist Church of Pecatonica was formed using the Prairie View Grange hall as their beginning church. By 1965 they relocated into the landmark property once owned by Pecatonica’s founders Daniel & Polly Reed on Washington Street. Eventually, the congregation would move across the street and purchase the old Pecatonica Medical Clinic. After remodeling and adding on an addition to the south end, they now have the fine church we see today.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
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CHAPTER 3
St. Mary’s Catholic Church Parsonage. PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Original First Congregational Church built in 1857 and razed in 1913. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Craig Dummer
Independent Sales Representative for Pioneer® Rain & Hail Crop Insurance by Dummer’s Seed Services LLC
PO Box 485 Pecatonica, IL 61063 (815) 239-2331 (815) 222-5700 cell (815) 239-1044 fax craig.dummer@plantpioneer.com
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
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CHAPTER 3
Swedish Mission Lutheran Church. Cir. 1890. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
THE CONNECTING POINT CHURCH The Connecting Point Church was formed in Freeport, Ill., and moved to Pecatonica in 2016. Here the congregation purchased the old St. Johns church on Main Street and began the process of restoring the old building to the beautiful structure we see today.
RIVER’S EDGE BIBLE CHURCH Founded in 2008, services were first held in the community room of a local Pecatonica Bank. The River’s Edge Bible Church is now located at 517 Main St.
First Lutheran Church 2019.
First Lutheran Church.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BROCKWAY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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CHAPTER 3
New First Congregational Church built in 1913.
First Congregational Church 2019.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Happy 150tH, pecatonica! From the Pecatonica Lions “Serving” the Community for 58 Years
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
358411
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St. Mary Catholic Church 126 W. Fifth Street
Pecatonica, IL 61063
We thank God for 150 years of blessings to our community. May He bring us 150 more years of His goodness and grace. Parish Founded 1874
358512
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Happy 150th Anniversary!
Congratulations on your 150th, Pecatonica!
Dr. William G. Johnson, DC 502 N. Elida Street, Winnebago, IL
815-335-2820
358513
CHAPTER 4
THEN and NOW
The American Legion in 1969.
The American Legion in 2019.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Pecatonica Public Library in 1969.
Pecatonica Public Library in 2019.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
Fifty years ago ~ A view in photos
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CHAPTER 4
Pecatonica Post Office in 2019. PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HIGH Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
THEN and NOW Pecatonica Post Office in 1969.
HAPPY 150th ANNIVERSARY! 351317
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
MANUS REPAIR AND STORAGE PECATONICA, IL Call 239-2588
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CHAPTER 4
THEN and NOW Sumner Park 1969. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Sumner Park 2019. PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Pecatonica Fairgrounds in 1969.
Pecatonica Fairgrounds in 2016. PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHEAL EATON Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PECATONICA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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At the carnival
Pictured left to right, Sophia Hoyle, Raven Hoyle, Ryleigh Hoyle. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Gatlin Siemens so happy to have the carnival rides.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Mason and Owen enjoying the slide during the carnival.
Here Brian Ingram and his son enjoy the carnival, music food, and to make a memory with a photo Memorial Day weekend.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Sesquicentennial crew on parade
Memorial Day Parade and some of the construction crew of the Pecatonica Sesquicentennial. Pictured left to right; Ron Hutting, Michelle Grunder, Jen Johnson, Darla Stram, Shannon Mulcahy and two of her sons.
We remember The true reason for Memorial Day. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Cake to mark 150 years
150 years! What a celebration! Thank you to Don Lance for building Pecatonica Sesquicentennial’s cake.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
Bags tourney winners
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Honoring the past
Luke Speilman and Wayne Rasner were the bags tournament champions.
Maxson Mayer watched the bags game while sitting on the bench in memory of Fay Anderson of Pecatonica who served our country.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Music lovers
The 13 Hours of Bands concert drew big crowds on May 25. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Scouts do their part Pecatonica Boy Scouts were on hand to keep things clean during Memorial Day weekend festivities. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Playhouse actors
Actors from Pec Playhouse entertained guests at the Murder Mystery Dinner.
Ready for a murder mystery Mr. and Mrs. Klinger were among the guests at the Murder Mystery Dinner. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Taste of Pecatonica
Village President Bill Smull and Gary Beuttner Pecatonica Legion served food during Taste of Pecatonica on Sept. 7.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Railway eats
Lions Club
Maribeth Hilliard sold pulled pork and mac and cheese in front of The Railroad during Taste of Pecatonica on Sept. 7.
Pecatonica Lions Club member Mrs. Klinger sold food during Taste of Pec on Sept. 7.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Tacos at the Taste
Dave Traum and his crew were ready for guests at the taco stand during Taste of Pec on Sept. 7.
Taco lovers line up
The taco stand was a huge hit with long lines during Taste of Pec. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Commemorative bags game This specially made bags board was raffled off.
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Bicycle Safety Day Pecatonica Police Officers hosted a bicycle safety day for youngsters on Sept. 7. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
To remember the landmark year by Keepsakes like the Pecatonica Sesquicentennial coffee mugs were sold throughout the year. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
Pec royalty Above: Mrs. Sesquicentennial, Jr. Miss, Little Miss and Little Mister at the Murder Mystery Dinner on Feb. 2 last year.
Fireworks celebration At right: A fireworks show wowed the crowd at the Winnebago County Fairground over Memorial Day weekend. SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pecatonica Sesquicentennial
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Pecatonica United Methodist Church 352872
819 Washington St. St. 819 Washington Pecatonica, IL Pecatonica, IL First Baptist Church 815�239�1533 815�239�1533 819 Washington St. (www.firstbaptistpec.com) Pecatonica, IL (www.firstbaptistpec.com)
Wednesday Service: 7:00 Wednesday Service: 7:00
Pastor Mark Gilmore Office: 815-239-1110 Cell: 260-615-5660 pastor@pecumc.org
815�239�1533 (www.firstbaptistpec.com)
Sunday School: 9:30 Sunday School: 9:30 Morning Worship: Sunday School: 9:30 10:30 Morning Worship: 10:30 Morning 10:30 SundayWorship: Afternoon Service: 1:00 Sunday Afternoon Service: 1:00 Sunday Afternoon Service:7:00 1:00 Wednesday Service:
Founded in 1853
528 Washington St. Pecatonica, IL 61063
Shining the Light
Shining the of Light the Gospel for of Shining the Gospel for the Light 60 years! 60 years! of the Gospel for 1959-20191959-2019
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357723
FirstFirst Baptist Church Baptist Church
For Those Seeking Nourishment: Worship 9 a.m.
Happy Sesquicentennial Pecatonica!
Happy 150tH!
Mike Freier
60 years! 1959-2019
Pecatonica michael.freier@countryfinancial.com
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PECATONICA SESQUICENTENNIAL • 2019
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION
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Serving Northern IL/Southern WI
Proud to be a part of the Pecatonica community since 1965. 202 W. 3rd St. • Pecatonia, IL
815-239-2660
357870