Historical Markers in Vermilion County, Illinois
73rd and 125th Illinois Volunteer Infantry
A Friend Forever
A National Cemetery System
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln - Eighth Judicial District
Abraham Lincoln - Eighth Judicial District / A Friend of Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln at Danville Presbyterian Church
Abraham Lincoln Delivered an Impromptu Address
Abraham Lincoln Forded Stony Creek
Abraham Lincoln in Tilton, Illinois
Address by President Lincoln
Aircraft in Honor of Chanute Air Force Base
Alumni who Served in Korean War
American Revolutionary War Memorial
Croghan Treaty with Pontiac
Danville (Illinois) National Cemetery
Danville National Cemetery
Danville's Lincoln
Dedicated to All Veterans
Dedicated To The Fallen Heroes
Detroit - Kaskaskia Indian Trail
Dixie Highway
Dr. William Fithian Home
Everyday Heroes
Georgetown Area Honor Roll
Georgetown Parade of Patriots Monument
Henning (Illinois) War Memorial
Historic Millstone
In Honor of All Who Served
In Honor of Those Who Served
Landing Ship Tanks (LST's) Memorial
Lincoln & Douglas in Danville
Lincoln / Lamon Law Office
Lincoln's Danville Friends
Lindley Sign Post Forest
Major Kenneth D. Bailey
Memorial To Westville Area Coal Miners
Pilot Township (War) Memorial
Pioneer Jet Avaitors of the Korean War
Potawatomi - A Trail of Death
Potomac (Illinois) War Memorial
Proudly We Pay Tribute
Robert E. Wurtsbaugh
Servicemen From Tilton
Sidell Veterans War Memorial
Soldiers of Vermilion County Illinois
The Original Milestone 121
The Temple / Danville USA
The Treaty Between Harrison and the Indians
Tilton Honor Roll
Trail of Death 1838
Two Trees Reach for Heaven
Vermilion County Korean and Vietnam War Memorial
Vermilion County War Memorial
Veterans Honor Roll
Westville War Memorials
Women's War Memorial
Workers Memorial
World War I Memorial
World War II Memorial
World War II War Memorial
About Vermilion County
Vermilion County Timeline
Vermilion County, Illinois has a rich and diverse history dating back to its establishment in 1826. The area was once inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Kickapoo, Piankashaw, and Wea. The first European settlers arrived in the late 1700s, attracted by the fertile lands and abundant waterways.
The county's location along the Wabash River played a significant role in its early development. The river served as a crucial transportation route, enabling trade and communication with neighboring communities. Additionally, the presence of coal and mineral-rich lands led to the rapid growth of the mining industry in the mid-19th century. This further fueled the county's economic expansion and attracted settlers from around the country.
The county witnessed its fair share of historical events during the Civil War era. Many residents enlisted in the Union Army, contributing to the war effort. Vermilion County also served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, with several stations providing shelter and assistance to escaped slaves seeking freedom.
As the 20th century began, Vermilion County experienced significant industrial growth. The area became known for its manufacturing and agriculture sectors, which produced a variety of goods, including farm equipment, textiles, and food products. The county's largest city, Danville, became a hub for manufacturing and commerce, contributing to the region's economic prosperity.
Today, Vermilion County remains an important agricultural and industrial center in Illinois. The area's historical significance, natural beauty, and vibrant community continue to attract visitors and residents alike, making it a place with a proud heritage and promising future.
The county's location along the Wabash River played a significant role in its early development. The river served as a crucial transportation route, enabling trade and communication with neighboring communities. Additionally, the presence of coal and mineral-rich lands led to the rapid growth of the mining industry in the mid-19th century. This further fueled the county's economic expansion and attracted settlers from around the country.
The county witnessed its fair share of historical events during the Civil War era. Many residents enlisted in the Union Army, contributing to the war effort. Vermilion County also served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, with several stations providing shelter and assistance to escaped slaves seeking freedom.
As the 20th century began, Vermilion County experienced significant industrial growth. The area became known for its manufacturing and agriculture sectors, which produced a variety of goods, including farm equipment, textiles, and food products. The county's largest city, Danville, became a hub for manufacturing and commerce, contributing to the region's economic prosperity.
Today, Vermilion County remains an important agricultural and industrial center in Illinois. The area's historical significance, natural beauty, and vibrant community continue to attract visitors and residents alike, making it a place with a proud heritage and promising future.
Vermilion County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Vermilion County, Illinois.
- 1819 - Vermilion County is established by the Illinois General Assembly.
- 1826 - The first permanent settlement, known as Franklin, is established.
- 1830 - Danville is founded and becomes the county seat.
- 1851 - Completion of the Wabash and Erie Canal boosts economic development in the county.
- 1861-1865 - Vermilion County contributes to the Union war effort during the American Civil War.
- 1870s - The coal mining industry experiences rapid growth in Vermilion County.
- 1942-1945 - World War II leads to increased industrial production and employment in the county.
- 1972 - The Vermilion County Museum is established to preserve local history.
- 1990s - The decline of coal mining impacts the economy of Vermilion County.
- 2000 - The Kickapoo State Park is opened, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
- Present - Vermilion County continues to focus on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism.