Shiloh College
a.k.a. District #1 Schoolhouse-Randolph County
13043 Walnut St., Shiloh Hill, IL Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2005.
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.
The word "Illinois" comes from a Native American word meaning "tribe of superior men." The Illinois were a confederation of several Native American tribes that lived in the region.
In its early years, Randolph County was predominantly an agricultural community. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farming, and many settlers grew crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The county also had a strong mining industry, with coal being a major natural resource. The combination of agriculture and mining helped to fuel the economy and attract more residents to the area.
During the mid-19th century, Randolph County saw significant growth and development. The construction of railroads in the county connected it to the rest of the state and facilitated the transportation of goods. This led to the establishment of new industries, such as manufacturing and timber production. The county also experienced an influx of immigrants, particularly from Germany and Ireland, who brought new skills and cultural traditions to the area.
In the 20th century, Randolph County continued to evolve and adapt to changing economic and social conditions. The decline of coal mining and agricultural changes led to a shift towards a more diverse economy. Today, the county is known for its tourism industry, with attractions such as the Chester Bridge and Fort de Chartres drawing visitors from across the country. Randolph County also has a strong sense of community, with many residents proud of their heritage and actively involved in preserving the county's history.
Randolph County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Randolph County, Illinois.
- 1809 - Randolph County is established as one of the first counties in Illinois.
- 1818 - Illinois becomes a state, and Randolph County is part of the new state.
- 1820s - The town of Kaskaskia becomes the first state capital of Illinois.
- 1830 - The county seat is moved from Kaskaskia to Chester.
- 1850s - Coal mining becomes an important industry in Randolph County.
- 1860s - Randolph County experiences significant growth due to the construction of railroads.
- 1927 - The Mississippi River floods, causing major damage in Randolph County.
- 1970s - The county experiences economic decline due to the decline of coal mining.
- 1990s - Efforts are made to revitalize the county, focusing on tourism and agriculture.
- 2020 - Randolph County continues to be a rural county with a rich history and diverse economy.