Dement-Zinser House
105 Zinser Place, Washington, IL Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
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.
During the mid-19th century, Tazewell County experienced significant economic growth. The construction of the Illinois-Michigan Canal in the 1830s brought increased trade and commerce to the area. The county became a transportation hub, with major stagecoach routes passing through and the advent of railroad connections linking Tazewell County to larger cities like Chicago.
The agricultural industry played a crucial role in shaping the county's development. Tazewell County's fertile soil allowed farmers to produce abundant crops, particularly corn and soybeans. The introduction of advanced farming techniques further boosted agricultural productivity. In addition to farming, coal mining also became a significant industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Tazewell County has also been the birthplace of notable individuals and events in history. For instance, the town of Mackinaw in Tazewell County is famous for being the birthplace of the Mackinaw jacket, a rugged winter coat originally worn by fur traders. The county has also seen its share of political prominence, with influential figures like Adlai E. Stevenson II, former Governor of Illinois and Democratic nominee for President, having ties to the area.
Today, Tazewell County continues to thrive as a primarily rural region with a diverse mix of agricultural and industrial activities. Its rich history, economic growth, and connection to influential individuals make it an interesting and significant part of Illinois.
Tazewell County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Tazewell County, Illinois.
- 1827 - Tazewell County established
- 1830 - First settlers arrive in the county
- 1831 - Pekin becomes the county seat
- 1835 - Tazewell County's first courthouse built in Pekin
- 1849 - Illinois River floods Pekin, causing extensive damage
- 1850 - Population reaches over 17,000
- 1856 - First railroad line reaches Tazewell County
- 1877 - Pekin experiences a devastating fire
- 1917-1918 - Tazewell County contributes to World War I efforts
- 1930s - Great Depression results in economic challenges
- 1940s - Tazewell County experiences growth with World War II industries
- 1974 - East Peoria becomes a separate city from the unincorporated areas
- 1990s - Tazewell County sees population growth and increased urbanization