National Register Listing

Shelbyville Historic District

Roughly bound by the railroad tracks, Will, N. 8th, and S. 6th Sts., Shelbyville, IL
Local significance of the district:
Commerce; Education; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

commerce education architecture
The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 was one of the most devastating fires in U.S. history. The fire destroyed much of the city, including over 17,000 buildings and left more than 100,000 people homeless. The fire started in a barn owned by Patrick and Catherine O'Leary, but the cause of the fire is still debated to this day.
Illinois random facts
Shelby County, located in central Illinois, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was established on March 1, 1827, and was named after Isaac Shelby, the first governor of Kentucky. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Miami and Kickapoo, before European settlers arrived.

The first European settlers in Shelby County established small communities along the rivers and creeks, relying on agriculture as their main source of income. Early settlements included Shelbyville, founded in 1827, and Windsor, established in 1829. As the county's population grew, more towns were developed, such as Tower Hill and Moweaqua.

During the mid-19th century, the construction of railroads significantly impacted the development of Shelby County. The Toledo, Wabash, and Western Railroad brought increased connectivity to the region, allowing for easier transportation of goods and promoting economic growth. The railroads also facilitated population growth as more people were attracted to the area for employment opportunities.

Throughout its history, Shelby County has been predominantly agricultural, with farming being the primary occupation for its residents. Crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat have been the mainstays of the local economy. In recent years, the county has also seen some diversification in its industries, including the growth of manufacturing and renewable energy production.

Today, Shelby County continues to preserve its agricultural heritage while embracing modern advancements. Its history is commemorated through local museums, historical sites, and community events that pay tribute to the past. The county remains a close-knit community that values its history and looks toward a prosperous future.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Shelby County, Illinois.

  • 1827: Shelby County is established by the Illinois State Legislature.
  • 1839: Shelbyville becomes the county seat of Shelby County.
  • 1843: The first courthouse in Shelby County is built.
  • 1854: The Toledo and Illinois Railroad is completed, providing a transportation link for the county.
  • 1861-1865: Many men from Shelby County serve in the Civil War.
  • 1875: The current courthouse is constructed in Shelbyville.
  • 1911: The Shelbyville Dam and Lake Shelbyville are completed, providing recreational opportunities.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression affects Shelby County, leading to economic challenges.
  • 1954: The Illinois Central Railroad exits Shelby County, impacting the local economy.
  • 1960s: Agricultural practices change, with mechanization and larger farms becoming more common.
  • 1990s: The population in Shelby County experiences a decline.
  • 2000s: Efforts are made to revitalize the county's economy through tourism and business development.