1. On September 21, 1823, the Illinois Gazette became the first newspaper to publish in the state. The newspaper was initially published in Shawneetown and was the primary source of news for the region. The newspaper ran for over 100 years before ceasing publication in 1939.

2. On this day in 1864, the Battle of Pilot Knob took place in southeast Missouri, near the Illinois border. The battle was fought between Union and Confederate forces and resulted in a victory for the Union soldiers, despite being outnumbered. Some Illinois soldiers played a significant role in the battle and helped secure the victory for the Union.

3. September 21, 1925, marked the opening of the Riverview Amusement Park in Chicago. The park was located on the north side of the city and quickly became a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers. The park operated for over 60 years before closing in 1967.

4. In 1970, the first peace march was held in Chicago on September 21. The event was organized to protest the Vietnam War and attracted approximately 2,000 participants. The peace march has since become an annual event in the city and is now known as the Chicago Peace and Justice Festival.

5. On September 21, 2001, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum was dedicated in Springfield, Illinois. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the life and presidency of Abraham Lincoln and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. The dedication ceremony was attended by President George W. Bush and other notable politicians and Lincoln scholars.