Tuesday, March 18^th is National Agriculture Day! While every state across the country will celebrate, this day holds special significance in the State of Illinois. With over 70,000 farms across the state, Illinois has a rich and long agricultural history.

Illinois and its prairie attracted many immigrants from its opening in the early 1800s to the mid- and late-nineteenth century. The immigrants came from other parts of the United States and from several countries in Europe. These farmers who started on the ground floor, worked and grew their farms over the years, slowly turning Illinois into a state on the rise in the 1800s. This includes farms like Walker Farms, the oldest farm on record in Illinois. Settled in 1786 in Crawford County, Walker Farms is still running strong. Today, several acres of Walker Farms are irrigated. They raise corn, soybeans and wheat. During the last half of the nineteenth century, the farms that were settled in southern and western Illinois developed more fully and the northern part of the state rapidly developed. Mechanization started to appear on larger farms and among groups who shared the cost of machinery.

Every year on Feb. 12, Illinoisans and Americans celebrate Abraham Lincoln's life and legacy. Born in 1809 in Kentucky, Lincoln's journey brought him to Illinois, where he built the foundation of his career and developed his character and commitment to democracy. Known as the "Land of Lincoln," Illinois played a crucial role in shaping the leader who would later guide the nation through its most challenging times.

Lincoln's deep Illinois roots shine. Although not born in Illinois, Abraham Lincoln credited the state with shaping his identity. As a young man, he moved to New Salem, where he worked as a surveyor and postmaster before pursuing law in Springfield, his future home.

In Illinois, Lincoln refined his anti-slavery stance, which would define his presidency. His debates with Stephen A. Douglas in the 1858 Senate race highlighted his eloquence and conviction. Although he lost the race, the debates thrust him into the national spotlight, leading to his election as the 16th president of the United States in 1860.

Lincoln's enduring legacy and presidency confronted extraordinary challenges as he led the nation through the Civil War and issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which moved the country closer to abolishing slavery. His leadership preserved the Union but ultimately cost him his life in April 1865.

Today, his legacy is prominent in Illinois, with sites such as the Lincoln Home in Springfield and the statue in Grant Park, Chicago. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum draws many visitors. Lastly, we cannot forget where it started with the historic New Salem State Park in Petersburg.

On Feb. 12, we honor Abraham Lincoln and the values he embodied: integrity, perseverance and equality. Whether visiting a historic site or reflecting on his contributions, celebrating his birthday reminds us of his significant impact on our nation and his proud Illinois roots.

 Happy birthday, Abe!

Illinois, a state rich with history and cultural significance, has played a crucial role in the journey toward African American liberation, a journey that Juneteenth commemorates. As a free state bordering slave states, Illinois was a critical player in the fight against slavery and for civil rights. The state’s unique position and its notable figures and events have significantly contributed to the spirit and history behind Juneteenth.

On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced General Order No. 3, declaring all enslaved people free, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln more than two years earlier. This day came to be known as Juneteenth and has since become a symbol of African American freedom and resistance.

On April 18, 1818, President James Monroe signed into law the Enabling Act, a pivotal moment in American history that set the stage for Illinois to achieve statehood later that year. This significant legislation marked a crucial step in the expansion of the United States and the establishment of the Illinois territory as a full-fledged member of the United States.

The Enabling Act granted authority to the people of Illinois to form a constitution and state government, thereby paving the way for their admission into the union. It was a testament to the spirit of democracy and self-governance that characterized the young nation during its westward expansion.

The Enabling Act provided the legal framework for Illinoisans to organize themselves and assert their right to statehood.

Following the enactment of the Enabling Act, the people of Illinois wasted no time in drafting a constitution. In August 1818, a constitutional convention convened in Kaskaskia, where delegates from across the territory deliberated and crafted a document that reflected their aspirations for statehood and self-determination.

On Dec. 3, 1818, Illinois officially became the 21^st state to join the union, with Shadrach Bond elected as the first governor. The state’s admission into the union was a cause for celebration, marking the culmination of years of effort and the beginning of a new chapter in Illinois’ history.

The significance of April 18, 1818 goes beyond the mere signing of a piece of legislation. It represents a milestone in the nation’s westward expansion and the fulfillment of the American promise of democracy and representation. The Enabling Act empowered the people of Illinois to shape their own destiny and contribute to the rich tapestry of the United States.

Today, as we reflect on the events of April 18, 1818, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of those early pioneers who forged a path for Illinois to become a state. Their vision and determination laid the foundation for the vibrant and diverse state that Illinois is today. The Enabling Act stands as a testament to the principles of democracy and self-governance that continue to define the American experience.

April 3 is National Walking Day! Physical activity is one of the best ways to live a healthier lifestyle and manage daily stressors one step at a time. Most of our days consist of sitting at work or school for eight hours, which can have negative consequences on our physical and mental health over time.

National Walking Day was established in 2007 by the American Heart Association and is celebrated annually on the first Wednesday in April to encourage people to add more movement in their daily routines. All communities are invited to take a walk on this day – whether it be to work or at a local park – to experience the impact of this lifesaving activity. See below for how you can participate in Illinois.

Plainfield Park District Free Track Day: Plainfield

In honor of National Walking Day, the Prairie Fit Fitness Center is offering free use of their indoor walking track all day on April 3. Additionally, members have an opportunity to get one month of free track use when they purchase a track membership on this day.