Bureau County, Illinois

Bureau County, located in the state of Illinois, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi and the Sauk. European settlement began around the 1820s when the US government opened up the land for homesteading.

The first permanent European settlers arrived in the early 1830s, primarily of English and German descent. The county was officially established on February 28, 1837, and was named in honor of Pierre Bureau, a French-Canadian fur trader who played a significant role in early regional history. Early industries in the county included agriculture, mining, and timber.

During the mid-19th century, Bureau County grew rapidly, thanks to the expansion of the railroad network. The arrival of the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad in the 1850s opened up new opportunities for trade and transportation, fueling the growth of towns like Princeton and Buda. The county became known for its vast farmland and attracted many immigrants looking for agricultural opportunities.

Bureau County played a role in the Civil War, contributing soldiers to the Union Army. After the war, the county experienced continued growth in various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and education. Today, Bureau County remains a largely rural area with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Its rich history is celebrated through various historical sites and museums, such as the Bureau County Historical Society and Museum, preserving the heritage of the area for future generations.
Brief timeline of the history of Bureau County, Illinois:

  • 1837 - Bureau County is established on February 28 as part of the Illinois Territory.
  • 1839 - The first log courthouse is built in Princeton, which becomes the county seat.
  • 1842 - The county's first newspaper, the Bureau County Democrat, is established.
  • 1854 - The first railroad reaches Bureau County, boosting transportation and trade.
  • 1855 - The Red Covered Bridge, now an iconic symbol of Bureau County, is built.
  • 1862 - Bureau County sends troops to fight in the Civil War.
  • 1894 - The current courthouse, a picturesque Romanesque Revival building, is completed.
  • 1919 - The Bureau County Fair is established, becoming an annual tradition.
  • 1929 - The Great Depression hits Bureau County, causing economic hardship.
  • 1942 - Bureau County contributes to the war effort during World War II.
  • 1985 - Westclox, once a major employer in the county, closes its doors.
  • 2004 - A wind farm is constructed, harnessing clean energy in the county.
  • 2013 - The Bureau County Metro Center opens, providing recreational facilities.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bureau County, Illinois.