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Illinois was part of the French colonial empire, and the city of Cahokia, located near present-day Collinsville, was one of the largest pre-Columbian cities in North America. At its peak, around 1250 CE, Cahokia had a population of around 20,000 people.
About Piatt County
Piatt County Timeline
Piatt County, located in central Illinois, has a rich history dating back to its early settlement in the 1820s. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Kickapoo and Piankeshaw tribes, who used the fertile land for hunting and farming.
The county's official establishment came in 1841 when it was named after James A. Piatt, an early settler and a veteran of the War of 1812. In the following decades, Piatt County experienced significant growth and development, with the construction of roads and railroads connecting it to other parts of the state. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with corn, soybeans, and wheat being the primary crops grown.
During the Civil War, many men from Piatt County joined the Union Army, fighting in battles such as Shiloh and Vicksburg. The county also faced its fair share of setbacks, such as the devastating tornado of 1876, which resulted in the destruction of several buildings and claimed multiple lives.
In the 20th century, Piatt County continued to develop with improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The county remains primarily rural, with various small towns and villages serving as the centers of community life. Today, Piatt County preserves its cultural heritage through museums, historic sites, and events that celebrate its history and traditions.
The county's official establishment came in 1841 when it was named after James A. Piatt, an early settler and a veteran of the War of 1812. In the following decades, Piatt County experienced significant growth and development, with the construction of roads and railroads connecting it to other parts of the state. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with corn, soybeans, and wheat being the primary crops grown.
During the Civil War, many men from Piatt County joined the Union Army, fighting in battles such as Shiloh and Vicksburg. The county also faced its fair share of setbacks, such as the devastating tornado of 1876, which resulted in the destruction of several buildings and claimed multiple lives.
In the 20th century, Piatt County continued to develop with improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The county remains primarily rural, with various small towns and villages serving as the centers of community life. Today, Piatt County preserves its cultural heritage through museums, historic sites, and events that celebrate its history and traditions.
Piatt County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Piatt County, Illinois.
- 1829 - Piatt County was established on January 27.
- 1831 - The first settler, Jacob Malsbury, arrived in Sangamon River Valley.
- 1833 - The first school was built in present-day Monticello.
- 1837 - Piatt County's first post office, called “Piatt,” was established.
- 1840 - Monticello was officially established as the county seat.
- 1855 - The Illinois Central Railroad was completed through Piatt County.
- 1861 - Piatt County supported Abraham Lincoln in the presidential election.
- 1892 - The Monticello Railway Company started operating electric streetcars in the city.
- 1942 - Chanute Air Force Base was established near Rantoul, bringing economic growth to the area.
- 1973 - The Clinton Landfill, located in Piatt County, became operational.