Updates

* A fun project has been started with many wallet-sized photos now online...brings back memories of trading photos while in grade school. If you would like to donate a student photo of yourself or friends, we'd be honored to put your contribution online. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/schools/students/student_photos.html

* Max Latimer submitted a great photo of Rollie Schleich Farm taken in the 1940's.

* Janis Straesser submitted wonderful family lineages for William B. Dickison's family, Christian Straeser's family, Ann Wilkinson's family and Ella Wookey's family..in the "Family Lineages" section.

* Janis also submitted a great photo of the Union Congregational Church ("Church" section) and a photo of the Straesser farmhouse...in the Farms area of the "Photos" section.

* Marilyn Warner Williams contributed obituaries for Herman Ziegler, J. Herman Moody, Dr. Richard Daniels, and Fred Potter.

* Marilyn also submitted a pamphlet concerning the grand opening of the sewage treatment plant in 1931, interesting old photo of a farm right next to Bradley University, postcard of the Alcazar Buffet and English Chop House and a postcard of the C. R. I. & P. Depot Station...all these pamphlet/picture/postcards concern Peoria.

* Robert Dixon submitted tombstone photos for the Hillcrest section of Springdale cemetery.

* Cindy Hall submitted headstone photos for Kingston Mines cemetery.

* Sandie Weber submitted an obituary for Cecelia & Gertrude McGonagle.

* An updated burial listing for Calvary cemetery which replaced the previous one, is now online...this new research was contributed by Gaile Thomas.

* Please check the "Surnames" page...more surnames have been added!

thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

March 31, 2009

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much for your contributions! I'm truly grateful for your kindness!

* Ruth Kingdon shared many beautiful photos. Class photos (complete with many names!) for Green Bush, Hazel Dell, Franklin, Kellar, Loucks and White Schools are now online. This project will be ongoing for the next few months.

* Janis Straesser transcribed 1902 biographies for Mahlon Brassfield, Robert Dickison, William Dickison, Moses Harlan, William Wakefield, and William Straesser. Janis also transcribed 1890 biographies for Horton Chamberlain, Albert Sturm, John Sturm, William Wakefield, Justin Wilkinson, and Benjamin Wookey....a 1873 biography for Griffith Dickinson and a biography of James Harlan from the book History & Genealogy of the Harlan Family.

* Marilyn Warren Williams submitted a photo of the Sour Mash Distillery after a disastrous fire in the 1880's.

* Mary Grimes submitted an obituary for Elvin Wagner.

* Mel Slane submitted many more headstone photos for St. Patrick's cemetery.

* Gilbert W. Jones submitted headstone photos for the Maple Ridge cemetery.

* Tracy Kyle shared many great photos of Root cemetery.

* Arthur Riggens submitted headstone photos for Glendale cemetery in Peoria county and West Jersey cemetery in Stark county.

* All the headstones have been photographed for Calvary cemetery, courtesy of Janine. An updated burial listing for Calvary to replace the previous one will be online soon...this new research was contributed by Gaile Thomas...

Thank you so much!
Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

February 26, 2009

Hi Everyone,

Heartfelt thanks to all who have worked so hard in making this an informative website!

* We completed putting newspaper articles online on how prominent Peorians "earned their first dollar". Thank you, Gaile, for submitting these articles!

* Gaile also contributed an obituary for Samuel Burkhardt and marriage announcements for Butler-Derganz and Bishop-Warner. Also submitted was a very interesting newspaper article about the Alaskan Gold Rush and the conditions there.

* John Melton contributed updated cemetery lists for Mount Hawley, Prospect, and Princeville cemeteries.

* Mel Slane submitted headstone photos for St. Patrick's cemetery.

* Max Latimer submitted wonderful photos of the Old Chillicothe Santa Fe Depot.

* Carole Martin contributed a great photo of John "Jack" Hill with additional information about his military service...in the "Military" section.

* Laurie Huey transcribed an obituary for William Huey.

* Barb Miroslaw submitted obituaries for Betty Altorfer, Roberta Fitton, Willis Fitton, Ann Mahar, Arnel Medearis, Everett Schaefer, and Samuel Reed.

* Steven Abrahams contributed wonderful old photos of the Wrigley family...in the Photos section.

* Gilbert W. Jones submitted headstone photos for the Chillicothe City cemetery.

* Headstone photos for the Dubois family, John Spong and Elenora Crizer (in Lancaster cemetery), submitted by Janet Munts.

* 1909 Business Directory for Bartonville and Elmwood, courtesy of Janine...in the "Directories" section.

a BIG thank you...you all have been wonderful,
Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

January 29, 2009

Hi Everyone,

Special thanks to Amy Robbins-Tjaden for her diligent work on Peoria's tombstone gallery!

* John Melton contributed an enhanced cemetery listing for St. Mary of the Woods and more headstone photos for this cemetery.

* Vilma Kinney contributed many lovely photos, courtesy of Coleen Byrnes & Irene Kirwin, at http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/photoalbum_kinney.html

* We are in the process of putting newspaper articles online on how prominent Peorians "earned their first dollar". Thank you, Gaile, for submitting these articles!

* Steve Slaughter shared great old photos of Brimfield and Chillicothe and its residents...now in the "Photos" section. Steve also submitted a Spalding class photo that we need help identifying. Thank you so much for your help!

* Gaile Thomas submitted obituaries for Dr. E. J. Sherow, Vincent Linatto, John Loeffel, Lottie Vandergrift, Susan Coykendall, Abigail Catherman, William Parker, and Caroline Hosdowitch. Gaile also submitted marriage announcements for John Crowder and Addie Coleman, Paul Dillard and Julia Speed, and Michael Duffy and Lizzie McMahon. Birthday announcements for Teodosia Connors and Frances Walker were also sent in by Gaile.

* Peggy Nemmers submitted a lovely photo of the 1931 confirmation class of St. Mary's Cathedral in Peoria and a 1933 photo of the Sacred Heart School's graduating class.

* Al & Carole Martin contributed great photos of CILCO employees... http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/photos_cilco.html

* Steven Abrahams submitted wonderful photos of Joseph and Everett Wrigley to go along with their headstone photos...located in the Texas Station cemetery gallery. http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/v/peoria/texasstation/

* Marilyn Warner Williams shared a wonderful postcard of the Clinton Hotel in Peoria.

* Jackie Hensley submitted obituaries, via Janet Bledsoe, for John Schelkopf, Elizabeth Eisenmenger, and Henry W. Schneider.

* Robert Eubanks submitted an obituary for Walter Eubanks.

* Additional data about the Moffatt cemetery has been transcribed by Claire Crandell.

* Headstone photos have been added for LaSalle, St. John's Lutheran, St. Joseph's, Trivoli and Peoria's State Mental Hospital cemeteries, courtesy of Janine.

a BIG thank you from my heart to yours,
Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

December 24, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much for your great generosity and gentle guidance throughout this past year! <sm>

Special thanks to Gaile Thomas and Amy Robbins-Tjaden for their diligent work on Peoria's tombstone gallery!

* Gaile Thomas has completed the project of putting headstone photos online for the entire Jubilee College cemetery.

* Mel Slane has generously offered to share his research concerning many surnames in central Illinois. His primary family lines include SLANE, HARTMAN, PHILLIPS, BALE, HUNT, HENRY, WALKER, GRAVES, RYAN, GODSIL AND PEACOCK. For a more extensive description of his offer, please visit http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/surnames/mels_surnames.html

* John Melton has offered to send photographed pages from a scrapbook he discovered at the Princeville Heritage museum. The scrapbook is filled with many newspaper articles concerning births, deaths, marriages...many surnames mentioned. John's offer is located in the "Look-up" section.

* Janet Turnbull contributed interesting newspaper articles about various disasters...now in a new section called "Disasters".

* Headstone photos have been added for Elmwood, Kingston Mines, Otto, Streitmatter and Springdale cemeteries, courtesy of Janine.

hope you have a very MERRY Christmas,
Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

November 26, 2008

Hi Everyone,

You all have been wonderful...thank you so much for your contributions!! <sm>

Special Note: Dorene Fox-Sprague has transcribed more interesting and amusing stories about Abraham Lincoln... http://www.illinoisancestors.org/lincoln/lincoln.html

Special thanks to Gaile Thomas, Gladys Hyde, and Amy Robbins-Tjaden for working on Peoria's tombstone gallery!

* Steve Slaughter contributed old photos of various mansions, hotels and Bradley Park's structures...all in the "Photos" section.

* Steve also submitted great research on the Harker family...take a peek at the Harker's Corners cemetery webpage.

* Newspaper articles and old photo about Little Lord Roberts, courtesy of Steve Slaughter, Gaile Thomas and Janine. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/entertain.html

* Barbara Miroslaw submitted 1890 biographies for Kenneth Grant and Andrew Weatherwax and obituaries for Thelma Weinkauff, Rosamond Caldwell and Arlin Shofner.

* Gaile Thomas compiled a current burial listing for Jubilee College cemetery. Gaile is also in the process of adding headstone photos for the whole cemetery.

* John Melton contributed an enhanced cemetery list for Prospect cemetery and St. Mary of the Woods cemetery. John also submitted more photos for Princeville cemetery. A-Z is now complete!

* Angie Sneeringer has added headstone photos for Lancaster and Springdale cemeteries.

* Headstone photos have been added for Blue Ridge, Elmwood and Springdale cemeteries, courtesy of Janine.

thank you most kindly,
Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

October 27, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Whew...it's cold here today but a warm-up is just around the corner...thank goodness!

Thank you so much for all your wonderful contributions!

Here are the October updates for Peoria county:

* John Melton submitted an updated burial list for Princeville cemetery and his headstone photos for surnames A-L are now online!

* Betty Geick donated a wonderful 1935 class photo of Hollis school...submitted by Carole Martin.

* Brad Spencer submitted 2 lovely band photos from the Peoria area...in the "Photos" section under "Entertainment". Brad also sent it a "Cradle Roll" certificate from Central Christian Bible School.

* Ruth Shaw contributed two lovely photos that she needs help identifying. Take a peek and see if you might be able to help...thanks a bunch! Ruth also submitted a great photo of the Janszen family who lived in Limestone township. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/photoalbum_unknown.html

* Gaile Thomas contributed a PDF copy of the 1955 book titled This is Peoria County, Illinois...which is an aerial view of the farms and other points of interest in Peoria county...located in the Publications section. Gaile also transcribed an 1880 biography of David McCullouch.

* Barb Miroslaw sent in obituaries for Yerda Davis, Ethel Snook, Etta Randlet, and Willadean Cady-Sikes.

*Janet Turnbull contributed 16 obituaries for various people who lived in Peoria...Samuel Woolner, William Bistler, Bernhard Junghaus, Mrs. Rachel Lightner, Jacob Frye...to name a few...

* Jackie Hensley submitted 8 obituaries for the Schelkopf, Schneider, and McDonough families.

* Mel Slane and I added headstone photos for Calvary and Oak Hill cemeteries.

* Gaile Thomas submitted a burial listing and great research for St. Mary's cemetery in Elmwood township. A complete set of headstone photos for this cemetery are also online, courtesy of Janine.

* Complete set of headstone photos for Lehigh cemetery have been added, courtesy of Janine. An updated burial listing has been added as well.

** Special thanks to Gaile Thomas, Gladys Hyde, and Mel Slane for their diligent work in adding photos to the tombstone gallery.

take care and God bless,
Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

September 28, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart...for all your generous contributions! You're most kind!

Here are the recent updates:

* Dennis Shaver contributed a lovely photo album of Patton school: 1909-1910.

* John Melton submitted more headstone photos for Prospect and Princeville cemeteries.

* Mel Slane submitted headstone photos for Brunswick, Blue Ridge, Penn Ridge, Princeville, Springdale, Swan Lake, Jubilee College, and Slane cemeteries.

* Barb Miroslaw submitted 18 obituaries.

* Janet Bledsoe submitted an updated list of veterans buried in the Brimfield cemetery.

* More headstone photos have been added to Trivoli cemetery, courtesy of Janine.

* Complete set of headstone photos and updated burial listing for St. Paul's Lutheran cemetery in Jubilee township, courtesy of Janine.

take care and God bless...Janine

August 28, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart...for all your generous contributions!

Huge thanks to all who have been working on the tombstone galley...we have over 22,000 photos now! Thank you Gaile, Gladys, Carole, Linda and Amy...and many other kind folks!

A new feature has been added to the tombstone gallery. You can now send an E-Card of any headstone photo that you wish to share with a "cousin". Click on the drop-down menu at the bottom of the photo's webpage....where it shows "photo options".

Here are the recent updates...

Peoria County:

* John Melton contributed research on Mount Hawley and Prospect cemeteries...by compiling extensive burial listings for both cemeteries.

* John also graciously submitted many headstone photos for St. Mary of the Woods cemetery, Mt. Hawley cemetery, and the Prospect and Princeville cemeteries. We are still in the process of putting all of them online. Thank you for your patience!

Stark County:

* Becky Selgelid submitted obituaries for Mr. and Mrs. Giltner.

* Barb Miroslaw contributed obituaries for the Ham and Whittaker families.

Tazewell County:

* Many tombstone photos have been added for Tazewell county...now featuring over 6,000 photos! Thank you Carole, Linda and Amy! http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/v/tazewell/

hope you have a great Labor Day week-end...Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

July 29, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much for your contributions and diligent work! You all have been fantastic!

When you have a free moment, please take a peek at the additions to our new tombstone gallery... http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/main.php

Gaile, Gladys, Carole, Linda, and many other kind folks have been working hard on the gallery.

Peoria County:

* New tombstone photos have been added to the Chillicothe City, Brimfield and Pleasant Grove cemeteries. http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/v/peoria/

~~~~~~~~~

Tazewell and Woodford Counties:

* Many tombstone photos have been added to the gallery:

http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/v/tazewell/

http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/v/woodford/

~~~~~~~~~

hope you have a great rest of the summer...Janine
http://illinoisancestors.org

June 30, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Hope you are having a great summer! June went by too fast...

Many thanks to all who contributed...you've been most kind!

* Barb Miroslaw submitted 26 obituaries...surnames of Cady, Caldwell, Kingdon, Reed, Shane, and many others.

* Marilyn France transcribed a 1902 biography for William Rush.

* Kathy Hughes submitted two obituaries: Annis Welsh and Peter Welch.

* Gladys Hyde submitted three obituaries: Mary Hyde, Richard Hyde and Samuel Hyde.

* New tombstone photos have been added to the Lutheran cemetery on Pleasant St. in Peoria, courtesy of Gladys Hyde and Janine. http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/v/peoria/

* Gladys also submitted new photos for Princeville cemetery.

thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Janine

May 30, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Your kindness has really kept me going...thank you so much!

We pleased to announce a BRAND NEW project for Illinois Ancestors, involving tombstone photos. This project will allow fellow enthusiasts to add their tombstone photos online themselves, using a very simple and easy process. We are now converting over all the original tombstone photos we already have on the site to the new tombstone gallery. We are more than half-way through the conversion. In the process of doing the "move", we've added many new photos! http://illinoisancestors.org/cemphotos/main.php

I can't thank these hard-working ladies enough...their help and support in this conversion process has been inspiring...thank you Gaile Thomas, Carole Martin, Linda T. and Amy Robbins-Tjaden!!

If you are interested in adding your own photos or adding new data to existing photos, we would be honored to work with you! Many sincere thanks!

Here are the updates completed for the beautiful month of May...more contributions to come...

* For Lincoln enthusiasts, Dorene Fox-Sprague is currently transcribing a little known book filled with humorous and insightful stories about Abraham Lincoln...courtesy of Steve Slaughter. http://www.illinoisancestors.org/lincoln/lincoln.html

* Obituaries for Enola Stansbury, William Stansbury, Jeanie Stansbury, Emma Caldwell, Matilda Richards, Elizabeth Needham, and Patrick Needham are now online, submitted by Donna Carkenord.

* Obituaries for Mrs. John Yerby, George Yerby, Mary McKune, William Boyle, Joseph Yerby, Lewis Yerby, Edith Blundy, Mrs. Talbert Belford, Truman Merrill, Luella Hargreaves, Mary Moss, Charles Yerby, Nettie Stout, and Rosa Barrett are now online, courtesy of Janine Crandell.

* Linda Rice Langseth contributed an obituary for Mary Rice.

* Ed Allewelt submitted lovely photos that he needs help identifying...thank you for putting your thinking caps on... http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/photoalbum_unknown.html

* Vilma Kinney wrote a lovely article about the Ziegler family...in the Remembrances section... http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/articles/articles.html

* Harry Lundell submitted an obituary for William Gauss and translated biographies (written in German) for Heinrich Blume, John Faber, Brunk Peters, and John Heschong. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/bios/1905book.htm

* Many new tombstone photos for cemeteries throughout the county have been added, courtesy of Janine.

If I have overlooked thanking someone, please forgive me...it was only me being inept...

many humble thanks,
Janine
www.illinoisancestors.org

April 10, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much for your contributions and suggestions! You all are very kind!

Here are the updates completed so far for the month of April...much more to come... <g>

* Donna Shane Carkenord submitted obituaries for Sarah Bruce, Susan Walliker, Etta Stansbury, Elizabeth Stansbury from her personal files. Donna also sent in obituaries for Elizabeth Hasselbacher, Elizabeth Hight, and Daniel Stansbury, courtesy of Janet Bledsoe...more to come...

* Harry Lundell transcribed obituaries for Nellie Bohannon, Elizabeth Traeger, and Lillian Gauss.

* Sandie Weber submitted an obituary for Rev. Fr. Ambrose German.

* Janet Bledsoe contributed lovely photos of the Brimfield Grade School Band and the Girls' Athletic Association, and the Brimfield High School basketball team, courtesy of Harriett Blundy...in the "School" section...

* Claire Crandell transcribed a burial list for Harkers Corners Cemetery.

* Yours truly has transcribed the Princeville cemetery.... approximately 2,800 names. If there are any corrections that need to be made, please let me know and I'll gladly correct it.

thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Janine
www.peoriacountyillinois.info

March 7, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Isn't it amazing how time flies? It's March already...

I can't thank you enough for all you've done...all the hard work and wonderful contributions!

Here are the updates for the month of March...more contributions to come...thank you for your patience!

* Janet Bledsoe and Shirley Cinnamon contributed a complete list of burials in the Calvary cemetery near Brimfield.

* Claire Crandell transcribed a burial list for St. Clements cemetery and Harker's Corners cemetery.

* Al and Carole Martin submitted tombstone photos for Harker's Corners cemetery.

* Steve Slaughter contributed additional photos for the "Trains" section.

* Barb Miroslaw contributed 86 obituaries...mostly from Peoria and Brimfield...

* Sandie Weber submitted obituaries for Anna Aylward, Michael Aylward and James McGonagle and Rev. Ambrose German.

* Karen Hamer-Pasquale submitted obituaries for Edward Manges and Anna Atkinson.

* An obituary of Elizabeth Plack was submitted by Donna Shane Carkenord, courtesy of Janet Bledsoe.

* Harry Lundell translated German biographies...for Frank Bourscheidt and Friedrich Schmidt.

* Diane Minor transcribed biographies for Frank Arnold, William Arnold, Edward Auten, Lemuel Auten, Peter Auten and John Ashbaugh.

* John Melton transcribed 14 biographies...surnames of Bush, Kneer, Smith, Stevens, Stone, Thompson...to name a few...

* Lloyd Lawrence submitted data concerning the Trial and Noel families...in the "Biographies" section.

* An interesting newspaper article about Odillon Slane's lecture on Masonry. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/news/news.html#articles

humble thanks to all,
Janine
www.peoriacountyillinois.info
www.illinoisancestors.org

February 16, 2008

Hi Everyone,

It's been an honor working with you...thank you for your gracious contributions!

Here are a few updates...hopes this helps a little...

* Steve Slaughter contributed additional great train/interurban photos for a new section called "Trains" http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/transportation.html

* Pat Goitein also contributed lovely streetcar photos for the same webpage listed above...

* Tracy Kyle submitted two obituaries for Goldie McNeese and Rudolph Smith.

* David Gracek submitted a wonderful old class photo from Reservoir School. If you can help identify anyone in this photo, we would love to hear from you!

* We have a new section called "Yesterday's News" on the homepage...where many newspaper pages (Peoria Weekly Journal) are now available for your viewing pleasure...ranging from April 26, 1888 to April 25, 1889. These pages contain many tidbits of information...county-wide births, deaths, marriages, mortgage transfers, advertisements, fairs, elections, etc...and various articles about prominent men and events in Peoria county and in other parts of the nation. More newspaper articles from the Peoria Daily Transcript will be coming soon...

New publications have been added to the Publications section (for downloads):

* A better version (with clearer photos) of Peoria Today with Peoria Blue Book Directory pub. in 1915 has replaced the earlier copy.

* The complete 1906 book: Eine populare geschichte der stadt Peoria (A Popular History of City Peoria). This book has great photos in it! Harry Lundell is in the process of translating the biographies in this book. Thank you so much Harry!

* A photo souvenir booklet of Peoria published in 1908.

many heartfelt thanks,
Janine
www.peoriacountyillinois.info
www.illinoisancestors.org

"To love what you do and feel that it matters---how could anything be more fun?" --Katherine Graham

January 24, 2008

Hi Everyone,

Hope you're keeping warm out there...it's really cold here in central Illinois! Brrrr.....

Many humble thanks for your wonderful contributions and transcriptions!

Here are the recent updates to the site:

* Roy contributed the county history books pub. in 1870, 1880, 1890, and 1912....in the "Publications" section.

* Gladys contributed tombstone photos for Maple Ridge cemetery and Princeville cemetery.

* Diane, John and Danni transcribed many biographies!

* Peter sent in a lovely Trivoli Grade School class photo of 1924...complete with names.

* There's a new section called "SETTLERS" on the homepage that lists old settlers, their nativity, year they came to Peoria county, etc.... Many names mentioned...

best wishes always,
Janine
www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Today is a smooth white seashell. Hold it close and listen to the beauty of the hours. --Anonymous

Monday, December 24-31, 2007

Hi Everyone,

Another year is drawing to a close...hard to believe that 2007 will soon be only memories.

It's been a great year...and it's all because of you!

I would like to thank you all for your hard work and dedication! It's been an honor and a pleasure working with you and I hope we can continue in our quest for many years to come!

We've made updates for the month of December though I have to admit that my "elf duties" have kept me busy the last few weeks. I promise to get on track again once the holidays are over. There are more contributions that I promise to put online...thank you so much for understanding!

* Danni Hopkins transcribed 1880 biographies for Richwoods, Rosefield, Timber and Trivoli Townships. Because of Danni's gracious efforts, all the townships outside of the city of Peoria are completely done...for the 1880 book titled History of Peoria County, Illinois!

* Karen Miroslaw submitted an obituary for Matilda Fisher.

* Karen Hamer-Pasquale submitted 4 obituaries: surnames of Conrad, Homan, and Marshall.

* Pat Schneider contributed 5 obituaries: surnames of Cashen, Robitski, and Staples.

* Diane Minor transcribed eight 1902 biographies.

* Linda T. transcribed an 1890 biography of Rev. John Muller.

* John transcribed twenty-seven 1890 biographies.

* Becca Seely transcribed 1873 biographies for John Reed, Joseph Eaton, Rev. Fraser, Thomas Hurff, Daniel Hurff, and Isaiah Nurs.

* Harry Lundell submitted 3 obituaries of the Traeger/Arends families.

* Jacqueline Gerber submitted 4 obituaries of the Walker/Harkness families.

* Mel Slane submitted interesting research about the Hunt family tombstone in the Brunswick cemetery.

wishing you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!
Janine

Of all the blossoms in life's garden,
friendship is the most fragrant.
--Anonymous

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Hi Everyone,

Heartfelt thanks for all your contributions, suggestions and kind words!

Here are the updates for November...please don't touch that dial...much more to come!

* Danni Hopkins transcribed 1880 biographies for Millbrook, Princeville and Radnor townships.

* Diane Minor transcribed 1912 biographies for Francis Minor and Charles Rindfleisch and seven 1902 biographies.

* Larry Hagemann researched and found names to go along with a St. Patrick's grade school photo he had submitted earlier.

* Barb Miroslaw submitted 43 obituaries.

* Karen Hamer-Pasquale sent in 9 obituaries.

* Pat Schneider contributed 6 obituaries.

* Norm Nesheim submitted an obituary of Mimke Willms.

* Harry Lundell is graciously translating biographies from the 1906 "Eine populare geschichte der stadt Peoria" book. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/bios/1905book.htm

take care,
Janine
http://peoriacountyillinois.info
a member of Illinois Ancestors

Friday, October 19, 2007

Hi,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your wonderful contributions!

If you have suggestions on how to make the site better, please email me anytime. I'm always open to new ideas!

Here is what has been put online the last few weeks...much more to come...

* Ginger Engler submitted obituaries regarding Trivoli residents and many beautiful photos of Trivoli....as well as an interesting biography about John Greenhalgh. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/photoalbum_engler.html

* Harry Lundell shared many lovely old family photos with us. http://peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/photoalbum_lundell.html

* Steve Slaughter contributed interesting photos of World War I posters seen around Peoria during 1917-1919...in the "Military" section. Steve also submitted great photos of steamboats and interurban/trolley cars...in the "Photos" section.

* Carole Martin contributed an obituary of Susanna Hill and also beautiful photos of past residents of Bartonville....in the "Photographs: Bartonville" section.

* 1880 biographies for Kickapoo, Limestone and Medina Townships have been transcribed by Danni Hopkins and 1880 biographies for Logan Township have been transcribed by Janine.

* Peggy Carey sent in great photos and info about the old Taylor Drug Store in Peoria.

* Dawn Stewart submitted an obituary for John Betts.

* Pat Schneider submitted 19 obituaries.

* Tombstone pictures for Walker cemetery have been added, courtesy of Janine.

* There's a new section called "Backward Glance"...where we can reminisce about the "good ole days". Cheryl Rimington Criss has written two excellent articles which sure bring back memories....hope they will for you too! There's a link off the main homepage.

humble thanks,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
a member of Illinois Ancestors

Sunday, September 30, 2007

Hi Everyone,

Truly hope autumn is beautiful where you are!

Thank you so much for all of your generous contributions!

Here are the latest updates...more to come...

Ginger Engler submitted obituaries regarding Trivoli residents and many lovely photos of Trivoli....as well as an interesting biography about John Greenhalgh. http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/photos/photoalbum_engler.html
Peggy Carey sent in great photos and info about the old Taylor Drug Store in Peoria.
Carole Martin submitted an obituary for Susanna Hill. Carole also contributed beautiful photos of past residents of Bartonville....in the "Photographs: Bartonville" section.
Steve Slaughter contributed lovely photos of World War I posters seen around Peoria during 1917-1919...in the "Military" section. Steve also submitted interesting steamboat photos...in the "Photos" section.
1880 biographies for Kickapoo Township have been transcribed by Danni Hopkins and 1880 biographies for Logan Township have been transcribed by Janine.

Friday, August 24, 2007

Hi Everyone,

We've added 1880 biographies for Hollis and Jubilee Township, courtesy of Danni Hopkins.

Also, over 250 photographs have been added to the Peoria County website, courtesy of Steve Slaughter, E. McKenna, and Janine. Most of the photos are in the "Photographs" section but there are additions to the "Churches" and "Schools" sections as well. There are beautiful World War 1 posters, contributed by Steve Slaughter that are in the "Military" section under W. W. I.

Many thanks to all contributors...can't thank you enough!
Janine
http://peoriacountyillinois.info

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Hi Everyone,

I've added 1880 biographies for Elmwood Township...more to come...

take care and God bless,
Janine
http://peoriacountyillinois.info

Thursday, May 31, 2007

Hi Everyone,

Humble thanks to Sandy, Sue, John, and Kathleen for your wonderful contributions...new additions now in the Obituary section!

Carole has submitted tombstone photos for the Trial and Roelf cemeteries.

68 tombstone pictures have been added for Lancaster Cemetery.

Surnames being researched have been added to the "Surnames" section.

you all have been so kind,
Janine
http://peoriacountyillinois.info

Monday, March 19, 2007

Hi Everyone,

The 1954 Peoria County Plat Book is now online...compliments of Theresa Day. Thank you so much, Theresa!

More contributions to come!

take care,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Saturday, February 3, 2007

Hi Everyone,

The complete 1917 Prairie Farmers' Directory is now online...there's a link off the main page. This database is full of interesting data!

Monday, February 26, 2007

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much for your gracious contributions! Every nugget of information will help us solve our genealogical puzzles!

Here are the recent updates...more contributions to come!

Melvin Slane and Mary Knight contributed fascinating newspaper articles about the Hunt family cemetery in Peoria.
Janet Bledsoe submitted additional data about the veterans buried in Cavalry cemetery.
A postcard of Peoria's Hotel Metzger was contributed by Larry Cekander.
Sandy MacDonald submitted a great postcard of the Peoria Life Insurance Building.
Larry Hagemann contributed beautiful photos of his family.
Harry Lundell transcribed an obituary for John Traeger.
13 obituaries were sent in by Barb Miroslaw...more to come!
Carole Martin submitted pictures of World War II veterans.
Ian Heath submitted an obituary of John Getty. A wonderful picture of him was also sent!

Please check the "Surnames" section...many new names have been added!

humble thanks,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Sunday, January 21, 2007

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much for your generous contributions! Here are the updates completed so far this month...

Mike Hunter submitted over 300 tombstone photos for Dickison cemetery.
Sandy MacDonald submitted great postcards of Bradley University and Bradley Park. Sandy also submitted beautiful photos of her ancestors who lived in Brimfield and Jubilee township.
Carole Martin contributed 12 obituaries.
More data and a map of the County Farm (Poor Farm) cemetery have been added.

Please check the "Surnames" section for new names being researched!

heartfelt thanks,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
http://www.illinoisancestors.org

Saturday, December 23, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Many heartfelt thanks for your kindness and support this past year! Your contributions have been truly appreciated!

Here are the updates completed this past month:

Sandy submitted 10 lovely old postcards of Peoria's parks and buildings. Sandy also submitted wonderful old photos/postcards of churches in Brimfield and Peoria...and various street scenes of Brimfield...more to come...
Laurie submitted obituaries of I. W. Silloway, Lloyd Silloway, Sarah Jones, Arthur Huey and Thaddeus Chamberlain.
Barb submitted 28 obituaries!
Kathy submitted 9 tombstone pictures for the Elmwood cemetery, 4 for the Smithville cemetery, 4 for St. Mary's cemetery and 5 for Springdale cemetery.
Carole contributed great photos for the World War I webpage!
34 biographies have been added for Akron Township, 57 biographies for Chillicothe Township, and 41 biographies for Hallock Township.
Tombstone photos for the LaSalle and Mount Hawley cemeteries are now online.

If you have ancestors in Knox County, the biographies from the 1912 History of Knox County (1147 pages) publication are over 90% completed and online at http://www.illinoisancestors.org/knox/Biographies/Biographical_Index1.html#Index1

Please check the "Surnames" section for new names being researched!

have a blessed and Merry Christmas,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
http://www.illinoisancestors.org

Thursday, November 16, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Many heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed data...it's been truly wonderful!

Here are the updates completed this past month:

Al and Carole submitted 19 tombstone pictures for the Lutheran cemetery in Peoria and 12 tombstone photos for the Hollis cemetery. They also submitted 73 tombstone photos (concentrating on veterans' stones) for Maple Ridge cemetery. Carole also contributed a lovely Bartonville school photo, circa 1920/1922 and a photo of the 1936 Caterpillar baseball team...in the Photographs/Sports section.
Additional pictures for the Cove section of Springdale cemetery are now online.
Steve generously contributed many interesting newspaper articles, including an obituary of Samuel Snyder.
An obituary of Hiram Hickey was sent in by Susan. Susan also submitted great research about Luke Wood's foundry.
Lloyd submitted a lovely collage for the Hayslip "family history" webpage.
Laurie sent in 7 obituaries.
Donna submitted 9 obituaries.
Barb contributed 19 obituaries.

Note: Cemetery listings for the LaSalle, Mooney and Mount Hawley cemeteries are now online.

Please check the "Surnames" section for new names being researched!

thank you kindly,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
http://www.illinoisancestors.org

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Many heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed data, suggestions and support! You have been most kind!

Here are some recent updates:

Barb contributed an obituary of William Catton, courtesy of Janet.
Sandy graciously sent in four obituaries, courtesy of Janet.
Wick submitted great tombstone photos of the Brambles in the Bramble cemetery.
The transcription of the Brimfield Obituary Index (1876-1959) is now complete...oodles of hand-written data generously contributed by Janet.
A "friend of free genealogy" is working on obituary abstracts from the Glasford Gazette...1899-1904 are now online...more to come... Quite a few Fulton County and Tazewell County folks are mentioned.
Cemetery listings have been added for the Elmwood, Lancaster, Trivoli and Kingston Mines cemeteries.
I visited the Parker cemetery recently and found more stones that have been "unearthed" over the years...complete listing with tombstone pictures are now online.

have fun climbing your family tree,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
http://www.illinoisancestors.org

Friday, September 8, 2006

Hi,

Heartfelt thanks for everyone's contributions, corrections and additions!

There are more cemetery updates:

Many names have been added to the Oak Hill, Edwards, Brunswick and Penn Ridge cemeteries.

I also "walked" the Texas Station cemetery this week...so an updated, complete list is now online.

http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/cems/cemeteries.html

take care and God bless,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Many heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed! Your generosity will definitely help fellow researchers!

Karen Madvig submitted a family history of the Seibold family in Peoria.
Wick Tobias submitted interesting data and pictures concerning the Brambles buried in the Bramble cemetery.
Ron Butler contributed a great article about the 1900 Jubilee of the Prospect Presbyterian Church (in the Church section). Ron also submitted a list of burials in the Prospect cemetery.
Michael Hunter sent in wonderful 1873 maps for Akron, Princeville, Millbrook, Brimfield, Jubilee and Radnor Townships. I added the rest of the townships so now all the township maps for 1873 are online...at http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info Please take a peek at the new category called "1873 Maps".
The French Grove cemetery was "walked" last week...an up-to-date listing is online with new tombstone pictures too!

Thank you for listening!

take care and may God Bless,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Thursday, August 31, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed this month!

Here are the updates that were completed recently:

    * Shirley and Janet submitted a complete list of veterans buried in the Cavalry Cemetery.
    * Diane contributed great photos for the Brimfield and Cavalry Cemeteries.
    * Linda sent in lovely pictures for the Union-Todd cemetery.
    * Kup transcribed biographies for William Hale, George Hart, Thomas Shaw, C. H. A. Shaw, Thomas Boyle, John Reed, 
       Albert Ernst and Joseph Collier.
    * Susan transcribed biographies for John Wilson and the Yerion Brothers.
    * Birth certificates and baptismal records of Edward, Edna and Herbert Rowan were submitted by Kitty.

The "Cemetery" section has been completely revamped! Changes and additions have been added to over 40 cemeteries. 
Many names have been added as well as tombstone pictures. Please stop by sometime and take a peek...
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info/cems/cemeteries.html

Have a great Labor Day tomorrow,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Monday, July 31, 2006

Hi Everyone,

My humble thanks to all who contributed this past month!

Here are the updates completed during the past few weeks...more to come...

* Susan Hare, Kup Fercell and Jeff McCoy transcribed biographies from the various county history books!
* Susan Hare submitted a collection of McKinney photos that she needs help identifying! Thank you so much!
* Leslie Utech sent in 2 obituaries for Clara Meyer and Herman Meyer. I added obituaries for Fred Luthi and Benjamin Kneer.
* Linda T. contributed tombstone photos for Springdale and Harkers Corners cemeteries. More to come...
* I added many tombstone photos for Cavalry, Pottstown and Harkness Grove cemeteries.
* Steve Slaughter submitted tombstone photos for numerous cemeteries.
* Steve also compiled a list of gravestone symbols and their meanings...in the "Cemetery" section.
* As an interesting note, Steve assembled many interesting trivia facts about Peoria...a link to it is on the main homepage.

Please check the "Brickwall" and "Surnames" sections for recent updates...

Thank you again for everything!!

keep cool out there,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Sunday, June 4, 2006

Hi Everyone,

My heartfelt thanks to all contributors! It's been great working with you!

Grove Schoolcraft contributed lovely photos of his relatives.

Susan Hare transcribed biographies of James Wickwire and Jacob Wachenheimer.

Daniel Gracek's wife transcribed biographies of Henry Nurse, Matthew O'Byrne, Peter Phillips, Alonzo Root, Maurice Sims, Albert Speers and John Spicer.

Steve Slaughter submitted photos of the Jones Family Cemetery and the complete 1883-1884 Peoria City Directory.

Also I will do look-ups in the 1890 (and 1932) Peoria City Directory.

All these directories (including the 1861 directory) can be found in the new section "Directories".

thanks again everyone,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
a member of Illinois Ancestors Org.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Friday, June 30, 2006

Hi Everyone,

My humble thanks to all who contributed this past month! It's been an honor and a pleasure to work with you!

Here are the updates completed during the past few weeks...more to come...

   * Steve Slaughter submitted tombstone pictures for the Trial and Swords cemeteries. Also Steve sent in many wonderful school
     pictures and a transcription of a book about the early schools and teachers of Peoria, published in 1900. Interesting reading...in
     the "Schools" section!
   * Steve also transcribed the street names changes that went into effect in Peoria in 1956. There's a link on the main page of the
     site...
   * Peggy Nemmers transcribed a biography of Lawrence Feuchter.
   * Pam Villafuerte submitted 2 obituaries concerning the Dubuis family.
   * Stedmond Whitney's biography was transcribed by Susan Hare.
   * Sandie Weber contributed a lovely family photo of William Foster and pictures of the McGonagle family. Sandie also sent in funeral
     cards for Gertrude German and Henry Foltz.
   * Cliff Oliver submitted 3 obituaries and 8 tombstone pictures for the French Grove cemetery.
   * Jeff McCoy submitted biographies for A. D. Edwards and John Allen.
   * Dan Grachek and his wife submitted biographies for Mark Aiken, Isaac Kellar, George Harlan, John Bohanon, A. O. Tuttle, Minney
     Rynearson and Benjamin Miller.
   * I transcribed the Brimfield Obituary Index for Sep. 12, 1912 - Aug. 26, 1915.

Thank you again for your kindness!!

Hope you have a happy Fourth of July,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Monday, May 29, 2006

Hi Everyone,

My heartfelt thanks to everyone who submitted wonderful data and pictures! You all are so kind! More contributions to come...

Here are the updates completed within the last few weeks:

Jeff McCoy submitted 2 biographies: John Woelfle and Squire Stookey.
Peggy McNary submitted a Civil War diary written by David McKinney and letters written by David and his wife, Bethsheba.
Susan Hare contributed biographies of John McKinney, William, James and John Turbett, William Arnold, Sanford Perkins, John Haller, Benjamin Warren, Micajah Macy, Peter Bergner, Charles Off, Godfrey Fritz and William Edwards.
Alan Rabe sent in a tombstone picture of James Lane, buried in the Concord Cemetery.
Barb Twist sent in a biography of Henry Wilbur.
Bobbalee submitted a great Civil War photo of Jabez Shaw.
Robin O'Neill contributed the biographies of Henry, Dexter, Edson, and Isaac Harkness, George Hovenden, John Clinch, Sarah Graham, David Gray, Nathaniel Hoffman, Fred D. Jay and Mary A. Kershaw.
Sam Moore submitted a biography of Robert Avery.
Steve Slaughter contributed directions to all the cemeteries in Peoria County...more to come...

I also added tombstone pictures and directions to the Tucker Cemetery.

Since this Peoria website has the 1956 Veterans' Honor Roll (listing all veterans buried in Peoria County as of 1956), we also decided to add the same database for surrounding counties. If interested, please visit http://www.illinoisancestors.org and click on the "Veterans" link. :-)

thank you for your kindness and support,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
a member of Illinois Ancestors Org.

Sunday, April 30, 2006

Hi,

Many sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed! It has been a pleasure working with you! :-)

Here are the updates for April:

Roy Meyer sent in great photos of Adolph and Anna Schmid and the Schmid Food Products Co. as well as 15 obituaries.
Linda Kestner submitted lovely photos of Roger & Jennie Vickery.
Megan Heffelman has shared her ancestor's Civil War diary with us...in the "Military" section...
Steve Frank contributed data about his ancestors M. L. Frank and his brother, Luther Frank, who were Civil War veterans.
The Brimfield Obituary index has been added to include the years September 1909 - September 1912....thanks to Janet Bledsoe.
Elise Haugen transcribed an 1890 biography of Henry Mansfield.
Jeff McCoy transcribed the 1902 biography of Louis/Lewis Heid.
Gaile Thomas transcribed 11 biographies from the 1890 book.
Iris Miller added more data concerning relatives buried at the Princeville Cemetery.
Debbie Schmidt-Martin submitted information about the Schmidts buried in the North Bluff section of the Springdale Cemetery. I also added 32 tombstone pictures for this section.
Your host (that's me :-)) updated Hollis Cemetery with 42 tombstone pictures.
More "Brickwalls" and "Surnames" have been added.

Thanks again!

take care,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Monday, March 27, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Many heartfelt thanks to all contributors...it's been great!! What a busy month!

Biographies:

   * Jeff McCoy transcribed bios of Jacob Hecht and Ernst Havens from the 1902 History of Peoria County book.
   * Gaile Thomas transcribed 15 bios from the 1890 Biographical Album.

Cemeteries:

   * Information about the Trial Cemetery with a near complete listing was submitted by Lloyd Lawrence and Lori Sue Mosteller.
   * Cliff Oliver sent in tombstone pictures pertaining to the French Grove Cemetery and the Elmore-Glendale Cemetery.
   * Mike Hunter contributed many tombstone pictures pertaining to the Dickison, Princeville and Prospect Cemeteries.

Obituaries:

   * Patricia Jordan submitted 2 obituaries for Loren Burnett and Alfred Burnett Sr.
   * Mallory Smith sent in an obituary of Stanley Mallery and information about the Mallorys...now in the "Family Websites" section.
   * Your host transcribed 2 obituaries for Beatrice Herath and Clyde Herath.

Photographs:

   * Ron Meyer submitted lovely photos of Conrad and Magdalen Schmid and William/Rosa Meyer.

Township Histories:

   * Shirley Slover contributed an interesting article about the early history of Timber Township.

Please be sure to check the "Brickwalls" and "Surnames" sections...new entries are added every month!

take care,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Friday, February 24, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Just a portion of the updates for the month of February...more to come...

I'd like to thank Debbie Schmidt-Martin for submitting an obituary of Patrick Powell.

Many thanks to Jeff McCoy for transcribing two biographies from the 1902 History of Peoria County book: Julius Hammer and Charles Harms.

A new section has been added to the website: Vet's Roll Call. The Veteran's Commission compiled a list of all veterans buried in Peoria County, recording their date of death (if it was before 1956) and which cemetery they were buried. They even recorded the exact plot locations. This project is comprised of 88 pages of data. Heartfelt thanks go to Gaile Thomas for her invaluable help!!

Warmest regards,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
member of RAOGK.org

Wednesday, January 26, 2006

Hi,

Sincere thanks to everyone who contributed this month!

Debbie Schmidt-Martin submitted an obit of Harold John Schmidt, James Barden, Elizabeth Barden and John Evans as well as a marriage announcement. Debbie also volunteered to do look-ups in the Limestone High School yearbooks of 1981-1984.
Bill Gorman submitted data on 2 Civil War veterans: Englebert Wierschem and Mark Bishop. Bill also submitted surnames he is researching.
Korean War casualties have been added to the "Military" section. Debbie Schmidt-Martin submitted a picture of her dad, Donald Schmidt who was in the Korean War.
Anna Petrick submitted an obituary for Robert Schmitt, Harvey Hauck, Jule Schmitt and Margaret Cooke.
Sandy MacDonald transcribed 8 marriage announcements, 17 birth announcements and 6 death notices.
Jeff McCoy transcribed a biography of John McCoy.
Nancy Lane submitted tombstone pictures of the Lanes buried in the Concord Cemetery. I also submitted additional pictures for this cemetery.
Ron Manroe is continuing with his project of transcribing the 85th Illinois Infantry book.
The project of transcribing the Brimfield Area Obituary Index is progressing...the years 1900-1903 is now online.
Information, data and maps concerning Camp Ellis (which had a huge impact on central Illinois) is in the "Military" section.
Pictures have been added for Greeley and Graham Chapel schools. In addition, class pictures of students who went to Lincoln School and Washington School are online for your perusal. Many names are mentioned for Washington School. If you can help identify these children, we'd love to hear from you!
Also acquired and put online was a wonderful 1924 yearbook for Timber Township High School. Any help in identifying students in these pictures would be truly appreciated!!

Special thanks to Gaile Thomas for her continued help and support!

There are more contributions that I promise to put online as soon as possible...thank you for your patience!

Best wishes always,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info
member of RAOGK.org

Tuesday, December 27, 2005

Happy New Year!

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed this month!!

Sandy MacDonald transcribed 6 obituaries and 2 marriage announcements.
Debbie Schmidt-Martin submitted a brickwall entry and a biography/photo of Andreas and Dina Schmidt. Debbie also sent in War World II data on Ervin Schmidt with wonderful pictures. Six obituaries and 1 birth announcement were also contributed. Debbie also offered to do look-ups in the 1929 Peoria City Directory!
Sandy Weber sent in an obituary for Charles McGonagle.
Janet Bledsoe submitted great tombstone pictures and research on the Bramble cemetery as well as an obit of Mary Keefer. Janet also created an index of Brimfield area obituaries...see the "Obituary" section!
Ron Manroe is continuing with his transcription of the 85th Illinois Infantry book. He has made excellent progress...all the bios are now online and he is now transcribing the regimental history.

I've added 8 new biographies from the various county history books as well as 1 obituary, 3 births and 4 marriage announcements.

NEW: In the "Military" section under War World II, Army enlistment records for Peoria county (covering the years 1938-1946) have been added. Many names mentioned!

Thank you for making this past year memorable,
Janine
http://www.peoriacountyillinois.info

Submitted by your Host

Any contributions, corrections, or suggestions would be deeply appreciated!