National Register Listing

First Congregational Church of Sterling

a.k.a. United Church of Christ

311 Second Ave., Sterling, IL
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

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.

architecture
The first McDonald's restaurant was opened in Des Plaines, Illinois in 1955. The restaurant was designed to be a drive-in, but it quickly became popular with families and eventually evolved into the fast-food chain we know today.
Illinois random facts
Whiteside County, located in the state of Illinois, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Fox tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the region in the early 1830s, drawn by its fertile land and the promise of economic opportunities.

Whiteside County was officially established on January 16, 1836, and was named after Samuel Whiteside, a prominent military leader during the Black Hawk War. The county's early economy was centered around agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and oats. The construction of the Illinois Central Railroad in the 1850s greatly enhanced transportation and trade in the county, facilitating the export of agricultural products.

During the Civil War era, Whiteside County played a significant role in supporting the Union cause. Many of its residents volunteered for military service, with over 3,000 men from the county serving in various regiments. The county also contributed to the war effort through its production of food and supplies for the Union army.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Whiteside County experienced considerable industrial growth. The county became known for its manufacturing industries, including agricultural machinery, stoves, and boilers. The Rock River, which runs through the county, provided an important source of hydroelectric power, attracting more industries to the area.

Today, Whiteside County continues to be an important agricultural and industrial hub in Illinois. Its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and friendly communities also make it an attractive destination for tourism and outdoor recreation. With a rich history and a strong sense of community, Whiteside County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of the state.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Whiteside County, Illinois.

  • 1836 - Whiteside County is established.
  • 1837 - The county seat is moved from Portland to Sterling.
  • 1846 - Morrison becomes the new county seat.
  • 1850s - Railroads begin to connect the county to other areas.
  • 1854 - The first newspaper, "The Union" is published in Morrison.
  • 1860-1865 - Whiteside County contributes soldiers to the Civil War.
  • 1870s - The county experiences significant growth and development.
  • 1896 - The Whiteside County Courthouse, designed by architect George O. Garnsey, is completed in Morrison.
  • 1920s - The county is affected by the Prohibition era and the Great Depression.
  • 1950s - The construction of the Whitney Young Memorial Bridge connects Sterling and Rock Falls.
  • 1990s - The area experiences economic changes with the decline of manufacturing.