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5 Fun Facts About August 18 In Illinois History
1. On August 18, 1864, a group of Confederate soldiers attempted to raid the town of Chester, Illinois, but were met with resistance from Union soldiers stationed at Fort Kaskaskia. The Confederate soldiers were eventually forced to retreat. 2. In 1920, on August 18th, the 19th amendment to the US...
5 Fun Facts About August 17 In Illinois History
1. In 1835, the first issue of the Chicago Democrat, which later became the Chicago Daily News, was published in the city of Chicago. This newspaper would go on to become one of the most influential media outlets in the Midwest. 2. In 1887, the Illinois State Fair opened in...
5 Fun Facts About August 16 In Illinois History
1. On August 16, 1812, the United States Army under the leadership of General William Hull surrendered to the British in the Battle of Detroit during the War of 1812. This was a major setback for the U.S. war effort and led to the British taking control of much of...
5 Fun Facts About August 15 In Illinois History
1. The Illinois state fair is traditionally held in August and has been a popular summertime event since its inception in 1853. 2. On August 15, 1929, Chicago gained international notoriety when Al Capone's South Side gang executed seven members of a rival gang in what would become known as...
5 Fun Facts About August 14 In Illinois History
1. Lincoln's Funeral Train: On August 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln's funeral train passed through six Illinois towns, including Chicago, where his body was laid in state for several hours. Thousands of mourners paid their respects to the fallen president during this historic event. 2. The Chicago Air and Water Show:...
5 Fun Facts About August 13 In Illinois History
1. In 1985, the world's largest corn maze was dedicated in Harvard, Illinois. Covering over 20 acres, the maze took three weeks to complete and featured more than two miles of pathways. 2. On August 13, 1966, a group of University of Chicago students released the first issue of the...
5 Fun Facts About August 12 In Illinois History
1. In 1833, construction began on the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which connected the Illinois River to Lake Michigan and helped create a major transportation route that fueled economic growth in the state. 2. On August 12, 1861, Civil War hero John Logan resigned his seat in Congress to join...
5 Fun Facts About August 11 In Illinois History
1. On August 11, 1927, the Illinois State Fair opened in Springfield, featuring horse racing, livestock exhibitions, and agricultural displays. The fair continues to be an annual tradition, drawing over 500,000 visitors from around the state. 2. August 11, 1861, marks the date of the first major battle fought by...
5 Fun Facts About August 10 In Illinois History
1. In 1821, the first land office was opened in Chicago, Illinois. This enabled settlers to purchase land in the area, which helped to spur the growth of the city. 2. On August 10, 1871, a major fire broke out in Chicago that destroyed much of the city. The fire...
5 Fun Facts About August 9 In Illinois History
1. In 1812, the town of Chicago was founded. Originally a small, fur-trading post, Chicago would go on to become one of the largest and most important cities in the United States. 2. On August 9, 1854, the first ever state fair in Illinois was held in Springfield. It featured...
5 Fun Facts About August 8 In Illinois History
1. In 1867, the first Illinois State Fair was held in Springfield. The fair, which continues to this day, features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment. 2. In 1929, the iconic Chicago Theatre opened its doors for the first time. The beautiful French Baroque-style theater is known for its...
5 Fun Facts About August 7 In Illinois History
1. In 1782, Chief Pontiac was assassinated in Illinois. He was a Native American leader who fought against British colonization, and his legacy is celebrated by many Native American tribes in the Midwest. 2. The Illinois State Fair opened on August 7, 1855, and it has been held annually ever...