On December 3, 1818, Illinois became the nation’s 21st state. As we come to our state’s 200th birthday, we asked senators to talk about people or places in their districts that represent the best of Illinois’ rich past and how that is shown in local history, tourism, culture or community impact.

The Grand Army of the Republic Memorial is a beautiful limestone building in downtown Aurora, founded for Civil War veterans 152 years ago.

On December 3, 1818, Illinois became the nation’s 21st state. As we come to our state’s 200th birthday, we asked senators to talk about people or places in their districts that represent the best of Illinois’ rich past and how that is shown in local history, tourism, culture or community impact. 

The DuSable Museum in Chicago keeps the legacy of the impact of African-Americans on Illinois history.

On December 3, 1818, Illinois became the nation’s 21st state. As we come to our state’s 200th birthday, we asked senators to talk about people or places in their districts that represent the best of Illinois’ rich past and how that is shown in local history, tourism, culture or community impact. 

Senator Cristina Castro of Elgin visited the Hoosier Grove Barn in the Village of Streamwood. Originally built in 1871, the family who built the house had moved out of Chicago after the Great Chicago Fire and became first-time farmers.

On December 3, 1818, Illinois became the nation’s 21st state. As we come to our state’s 200th birthday, we asked senators to talk about people or places in their districts that represent the best of Illinois’ rich past and how that is shown in local history, tourism, culture or community impact. 

Senator John Mulroe visited the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House in the Village of Norwood Park.

On December 3, 1818, Illinois became the nation’s 21st state. As we come to our state’s 200th birthday, we asked senators to talk about people or places in their districts that represent the best of Illinois’ rich past and how that is shown in local history, tourism, culture or community impact.

Senator Mattie Hunter chose to highlight Wendell Phillips Academy in the Bronzeville community, named for abolitionist and philanthropist Wendell Phillips.