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The state of Illinois played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by slaves to escape to freedom in the 19th century. Many abolitionists in Illinois provided safe houses for escaping slaves, and Chicago was a key hub on the Underground Railroad.
About Bond County
Bond County Timeline
Bond County, Illinois, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history spanning several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Illinois and Shawnee, before European settlement began in the late 18th century. In 1816, Bond County was established as one of Illinois' original nine counties.
During the early years of settlement, Bond County saw a significant influx of settlers, primarily from the southern United States. These settlers established farms and plantations, cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The county's economy was also driven by salt production, thanks to the abundant salt mines in the area.
In the mid-19th century, the arrival of the railroad transformed Bond County's economy and transportation infrastructure. The county's towns and villages grew in importance as railroad hubs, facilitating trade and connecting Bond County to broader regional markets. This period of growth was further fueled by the rise of coal mining, which brought increased employment opportunities and economic prosperity to the area.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed significant social and political developments in Bond County. The county was a prominent site for the women's suffrage movement, and local women were instrumental in advocating for voting rights for women in Illinois. Bond County was also actively involved in the Prohibition movement, with temperance societies and anti-alcohol campaigns gaining considerable support within the community.
Throughout its history, Bond County has remained a predominantly agricultural region, with farming and associated industries serving as the backbone of the local economy. However, the county has also seen diversification over the years, particularly in the fields of healthcare, education, and manufacturing, contributing to its continued growth and development. Today, Bond County attracts visitors with its historical landmarks, scenic countryside, and community events that celebrate its rich heritage.
During the early years of settlement, Bond County saw a significant influx of settlers, primarily from the southern United States. These settlers established farms and plantations, cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The county's economy was also driven by salt production, thanks to the abundant salt mines in the area.
In the mid-19th century, the arrival of the railroad transformed Bond County's economy and transportation infrastructure. The county's towns and villages grew in importance as railroad hubs, facilitating trade and connecting Bond County to broader regional markets. This period of growth was further fueled by the rise of coal mining, which brought increased employment opportunities and economic prosperity to the area.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed significant social and political developments in Bond County. The county was a prominent site for the women's suffrage movement, and local women were instrumental in advocating for voting rights for women in Illinois. Bond County was also actively involved in the Prohibition movement, with temperance societies and anti-alcohol campaigns gaining considerable support within the community.
Throughout its history, Bond County has remained a predominantly agricultural region, with farming and associated industries serving as the backbone of the local economy. However, the county has also seen diversification over the years, particularly in the fields of healthcare, education, and manufacturing, contributing to its continued growth and development. Today, Bond County attracts visitors with its historical landmarks, scenic countryside, and community events that celebrate its rich heritage.
Bond County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bond County, Illinois.
- 1817: Bond County is established from Madison County as one of the original counties of Illinois.
- 1818: Elisha Journey builds the first house in Bond County.
- 1821: The first county jail is built in the town of Greenville.
- 1822: The first courthouse is constructed in Greenville.
- 1835: The Illinois State Legislature designates Greenville as the permanent county seat.
- 1852: The Illinois Central Railroad is completed, connecting Bond County to the rest of the state.
- 1861-1865: Bond County residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1887: The current Bond County Courthouse is built in Greenville.
- 1930s: The Great Depression severely impacts the local economy.
- 1970s: Agriculture becomes the dominant industry in Bond County.
- 2000s: Greenville University becomes a prominent educational institution in the county.