LaSalle County History - Things You Didn't Know!
Imagine a world where Chicago, the bustling metropolis known for its towering skyscrapers, deep-dish pizza, and vibrant cultural scene, wasn’t part of Illinois but instead belonged to Wisconsin.
It sounds like an alternate history scenario, but it's closer to reality than you might think!
In the early 19th century, the borders of the United States were still being drawn, and the boundaries of new states were hotly debated. When Illinois was admitted to the Union in 1818, its northern boundary was a key point of contention. The original proposal placed the state's northern border at the southern tip of Lake Michigan, which would have left Chicago and its surrounding area as part of what is now Wisconsin.
However, Nathaniel Pope, the territorial delegate for Illinois, had other plans. Pope understood the potential significance of Chicago's location for future economic growth and its access to the Great Lakes. He lobbied Congress to move the boundary 51 miles north, ensuring that Illinois would have access to Lake Michigan. His efforts succeeded, and the northern boundary was adjusted, securing Chicago’s place within Illinois.
This strategic move not only gave Illinois a crucial economic advantage but also set the stage for Chicago to become the transportation and commercial hub it is today. Amanda Carter from the LaSalle County Historical Society adds "LaSalle County served as the connecting point between the the Illinois River and Lake Michigan through the development of the I & M Canal making transportation of goods possible and opening the doors for economic development for State of Illinois.” Had Chicago become part of Wisconsin, the city's history—and the development of the entire region—might have looked very different.
So, next time you find yourself in Chicago, take a moment to ponder how close it came to being part of Wisconsin, and how a single decision helped shape the future of one of America's greatest cities!
Learn about this and more at our up-coming LaSalle County History Series beginning September 4, 2024 at Illinois Valley Community College. Attend in-person or by zoom. Sessions will be recorded for later viewing. Sign-up for the entire 9-session series or register for the single sessions that interest you most. Contact the IVCC Continuing Education Center for additional information (815) 224-0427.
Who are our classes for?
The answer is simple. You! If you are interested in exploring or developing new hobbies, learning more about topics that interest you, getting to know others who share similar interests, and learning from content experts... then you have come to the right place. The IVCC Continuing Education Center is here to help you meet your lifelong learning needs.
Did you know IVCC offers day trips to historic sites, museums and cultural events?
Illinois Valley Community College coordinates a variety of day trips, arm chair tours and educational travel programs each year. From Broadway theatre in Chicago, historic sites, garden tours, msueum outings to culinary adventures there are many options. We strive to provide unique and personal experiences and the best part, you get to leave all the planning to us! Join our e-newsletter for bus trip updates.
Here are some of our upcoming travel programs:
- Wednesday, October 2: Exploring Horicon Marsh
- Tuesday, October 15: Fall Blessings (featuring Holy Hill, Wisconsin)
- Tuesday, October 29: Journey of Reflection & Culture (featuring Illinois Holocaust Museum)
- Wednesday, December 11: Holidays, History & Heritage (featuring tours with the Peoria Historical Society of the Pettengill-Morron House featuring Second Empire architecture & the John C. Flanagan House)