977.369 .... P218 PARIS AND EDGAR COUNTY^ 1^3 -'^^^ UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS LIBRARY AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGH tUNOlS HISTORICAL SURVEY 977.369 ^218 Paris and Ed^ar County „iii(iii..,„ ''■r, C'-- "OV.-" 1823 1973 Paris — Edgar County Sesquicentennial Program THURSDAY, SEPT. 6, 1973 4 p.m. Opening Ceremony, West Side Square 4:30 p.m. — St. Marys Parent-Teacher Asso- ciation Ice Cream Social 7 p.m. — Community Sing, Sponsored by Community Concert Association FRIDAY, SEPT. 7, 1973 12 noon — Lions Club Fish Fry 6 p.m. — Paris Jaycees Barbershop Quartet Competition 7 p.m. — Junior Women's Club Style Show SATURDAY, SEPT. 8, 1973 Kiwanis Club Pancake Day, all day 9:30 a.m. — Children's games, Paris Com- munity YMCA 9:30 a.m. — All-County Spelling Bee, West Side Square 2 p.m. — Sesquicentennial Parade, Central Avenue 4:30 p.m. — Groundbreaking for Edgar Coun- ty Airport, 6 miles North of Paris DISPLAYS Antique Quilt Show, Edgar County Savings & Loan Association Art Show, Edgar County Courthouse and Car- negie Public Library' Farmers Market, Tent on South Side Square (Thursday and Friday) Phyllis Wheatley Club Lemonade Stand, in Meeting House State of Illinois Historymobile, North Side Square Farrier's Exhibit (Horseshoeing) Satur- day, South Side Square Historical Displays in downtown business win- dows. The following booklet is offered neither as a definitive history of Paris and Edgar County, nor as a comprehensive study of the com- munity and county as it is in 1973. Rather it is a glance backward and a view of the pre- sent as the foundation for the next 150 years. Acknowledgement is gratefully made for the help of those who offered pictures and infor- mation for the contents of this book. Historic pictures were compiled by Philip S. Foley from the 1898 50th anniversary edition of the Beacon, and the 1914 edition of a Paris Cham- ber of Commerce oooklet, plus personal pic- tures. Current photographs are from the files of the Beacon-News photo staff and the Bea- con-News editorial department assisted with sections of the written material. The history of the earliest years was written by Philip Shutt with some additions by Del York, who edited the manuscript. The sections on the more recent years were written by Ned Jeni- son. The book was published by the coopera- tive efforts of the Witlick Printing Co., UMC- Colson Co., and the Beacon-News. o, ■SaUjmA, 'At .Htn. ,/Ai'u ^i), JfwtiMiiv t*)u<. iTmik.' ...Iturni /3 -^ JL 7 ' 5 '/T^ /.^ ^ i>V" -3.7 ^ I 1^ "^ i.J^ u ~^ 'sS\ SS\ 9> i/>»7f-lf 'aJ'/'Uef ^i "371 3"2' Zl~3s r^/ ■'T? y^ /.? -#5 ] y/ / r'^/ 'J7 :)/> i^J :»/! ^/ !1[ '7 ^-^ i I ;J4 1 ifflta/^^ '14 S/t ^^ /WkAu JjfteiH) Ofi//aj'ii'Hr .i^Sra-iy^ Ci/ft^0^nfiC*\ ^ QjtxsiU eviJSd fi^ i(J/.f mC Q/'uu M< Af/' //r./t. This is a copy of the page in the first volume of proceedings of the Edgar County Commis- sioners which shows the initial plat of the original town of Paris as designated in June, 1823. Market Street is now Main, and Madn Street became Central. 1823 PARIS - EDGAR COUNTY 1973 PROGRESS ON THE PRAIRIE By PHILIP L. SHUTT The territory in which Paris is located was part of the Kickapoo Indian Hunting Grounds. The old Indian boundary line, cutting down across the eastern portion of Edgar Coimty had been established by treaty between the Kickapoos and General WiUiam Henry Harris- on about 1809. Land was offered for sale as early as 1816, most of it in the southeastern and eastern portions of what subsequently became Edgar County. An Indian trail, laid out as a road between Chicago and Vincennes by pioneer explorer Guerdon S. Hubbard was helpful in bringing people south through the territorj', but more importantly providing a link with immigrants from Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee. From these three states came most of the early settlers around Paris. The first family thought to have settled about 1821 within the environs of Paris was that of Thomas Jones, who, with his wife, three sons, and five daughters arrived to make their home in the wilderness. They came from Christian County, Kentucky. Mr. Jones died soon afterward, and the family moved on to Texas, but not before one of the daugh- ters married Hall Sims, another pioneer. Oth- er eariy settlers in Paris were John Boyd, John Houston and Smith Shaw. Samuel Vance of Virginia, but latterly a Tennessee man entered by purchase from the U.S. Government on January 4, 1823, 164.96 acres near the center of what now is Edgar County. Samuel Vance donated 26 acres of land for the establishment of the town of Paris and County Seat of Edgar County. The original plat of the town was surveyed and laid out by Amos Williams for the Vances. The recorded plat in the County Clerk's office is dated May 3, 1823. After a survey of several parts of the pre- sent county, the Paris site seemed a good one because it was level, it had good drainage, it was easily cleared, and it was central to tra- vel. In the center of the 26 acres was an old Jack-oak tree. What would be more na- tural then as to emblazon upon its trunk the word "Paris". It is an educated guess that the name "Paris" was chosen after the name of Paris, Kentucky. That town would have been known to some of the Kentucky people who were attracted to the spot in Illinois. North Arm, in tie eastern part of the county platted 100 acres to be called Cam- bridge City, hoping this would become the County Seat of government. But Paris proved to be more accessible, and Cambridge City ne\^r came into being. The first building erected in Paris was the log house of Smith Shaw which was built near tiie southeast comer of what is now East Crawford and Shaw Avenue. Then Sam- uel Vance and the adult members of his family built log houses north of what is now the square. The first commercial building in Paris was a log storehouse built by Milton K. Alexander near the Square. Next to it he built his residence. Paris, as a town became incorporated in 1849. Before this year, the jurisdiction of the growing community was in the hands of the Edgar Commissioner's Court. Edgar County had been set up in 1823. There were 64 lots in the original piat of Paris with four named streets and a "Public Square". The two east-west streets were de- noted as "Wood" and "Court". The two north- south streets were called "Market" and "Main". Market later came to be called "Main" and "Main" became "Central". On June 22, 1849, the people of Paris ga- thered at designated polling places to decide whether the town should be incorporated so that it might have its own government. Only 28 persons voted, and of these, Wiley B. Ed- wards and William Graham were the only negative votes. Those, then, who desired a corporate town, were: J.W. Blackburn, Char- les BriseU, Robert Clark, J.B. Cole, D.J. Con- nally, Albert Daggett, Austin Earnest, Samuel Jordan, Jacob Harding, H.A. Hodge, Paul Huston, J.D. Jaquith, S.P. Link, Nethaniah Link, Thomas Martin, J.M. McConkey, W.G. McReynolds, Washington Nebaker, L.T. New- Ion, Jonathon A. Phips, J.J. Samuels, E.P. Reservoir Dam and Municipal Waterworks, Early 1900s. Second Court House, 1833-1885. ISuisances Were Clearly Defined Shaw, John Sheriff, James Steel, John Suther- land and Jonothan Tucker. A week later the officers of the "Corpora- tion of the Town of Paris" began their duties. L.T. Newlon was president, and J.D. Jaquith, clerk. These officials proved temporary - just to get the organization moving - for on June 29,1849, an election selected M.M. Dill as pre- sident, and Mr. Newlon as clOTk, each to serve one year. Trustees chosen were: M.M. Dill, James Gordon, Nethaniah Link, Washington Nebaker, and John Sheriff. In addition, John Gist became Town Constable, auctioneer, and tax collector; Henry Nevil, assessor and trea- surer; William Benjamin and Jonathan A. Metcalf, street supervisors. At their first formal session "laws and ordinances" were adopted. Tnese provided for the duties of the town officers, taxation, health regulation, sidewalk grades, prohibition of "gaming", isolation of "nuisances", care of horses, licensing of different businesses, and penalities for disobeying the several laws. Two kinds of taxes were established: 1) a tax of not to exceed one-half of one per cent a year on town lots, dwellings, public hous- es, and merchants shops; 2) a tax of one- eighth of one per cent on real and personal property. No estimate of the income from such taxation is available. "Nuisances" were dearly defined, for which one could be fined for their perpetration. Listed were: allowing manure to remain for more than three days; blocking of streets and "allies" with dirt piles, chips and trash; leaving vegetables, meats, slop, or "other filth" Or anything likely to produce an of- fensive smeU out in the open; discharging or firing a pistol within 80 rods of the Court House, (such shooting was later prohibited altogether;) playing cricket, bandy cat, town ball, comer ball, pitching quoits, dollars, or any game of chance on the "sabbath day"; blowing of horns, trumpets, or bugles, ringing beUs, beating drums, halooing and shouting, at any time, making or firing squibs, crack- ers or rockets; and permitting hogs to run loose in the streets. The hog ordinance was continually revised to cope with the problem- even a hog "pound" seemed of little value. In July, 1849, cholera threatened Paris, and it was, in those days, a common threat due to lack of sewage facilities. So the Trustees took prompt action by establishing a "clean- up day". The President and a special com- mittee saw to it that all back-houses, out- houses, pens, or other nusiances were cleaned, as well as to see that the streets and "allies" were cleared of rubbish. Property owners, or anyone concerned who proceeded with such cleaning were to be compensated for their time out of an "improvement tax". Early in the spring, 1850, the Trustees found it necessary to purchase some equip- ment for the small volunteer fire department. Three fire hooks and two ladders and poles for the hooks were purchased after a public letting. The first ordinance relating to keeping or selling liquor was adopted at the August, 1850, meeting. Since 1850, Paris has had very few "dry" years! A house or other building where excessive drinking or disorderly conduct was allowed, were grounds for a fine. The pro- prietors of such places, under this new or- dinance, were given two day's notice, and if such a "nuisance" was not abated within that time, fines from $5.00 to $15.00 could be assessed each day such a rendevouz was open after the closing notice was given. This ordinance was apparently aimed at three gentlemen: B. Beck, Bennet Redmon, and W. H. Stout. Mr. Redmon was fined quite often. To make walking better around the four sides of the Square, plank sidewalks of clear white or burr oak were ordered laid out. Such planks were to be 10 feet in length, 8 inches in width, and two inches thick. The cost of such lumber was not to be more than $1.25 per hundred feet-inch. James D. Ja- quith contracted to do the work. The first so-called "corporation tax" was set at one-eighth of one per cent on every $100.00 valuation of real and personal property in 1850. Of 10,692 people residing in Edgar County in 1850, more than half were certainly resi- dents of Paris. So the town had grown from 200 persons numbered in 1837. The increase of population meant a greater demand for better streets and better sidewalks. A new law spelled out in detail penalities for card playing, billiards, dice, or any other "game of chance". Such games were now prohibited in any house, store, grocery, wai*- house, shop, out-house, or in any other build- ing. This inclusive ordinance must have pro- \ided some exciting moments for the Town Constable, if so, he was compensated, when the fines were given to him in lieu of salary. An official seal for the town of Paris was purchased in 1855, and the first set of rules to govern the activities of the Council was adopted. A lithograph map of the town of Paris was purchased from Robert J. Boylan. The first duly elected Attorney for the town was James Steele. He was to receive $40.00 a year and such other compensation as the Council might determine. In 1856 the publication of expenditures and income of the town sened good reading in the Valley Blade and Prairie Beacon news- South Side of Square, Looking West, 1876. East Court Street From Main Street, 1876. Paris Becomes A City, M«y 28, 1868 papers. This was the first of similar publi- cations. Steps were taken in September, 1856, to provide a more adequate water supply by opening a new artesian well. Stones were now set at each proper comer of the Square to mark it off. Now that the railroad passed tlirough Paris, the Council found it necessary to adopt a speeding ordinance, limiting the passage of trains tlirough the town at 10 miles an hour. In May, 1858, new lamps and posts were erected at the comers of the Square for coal oil, instead of candles. The Beacon editorial- ized the hope that eventually gas illumination would be used. The coal oil proved unsatis- factory, so star candles were put back in. A.A. Hannah held the contract for the change- over. A rather high corporation tax of 25 cents per $100.00 valuation was adopted in July, 1858, without public outcry! In 1859, the property tax was reduced from 25 cents to 20 cents, thus giving a measure of relief to property owners. There wei-e major public improvements planned in 1863. The streets around the Square, for example, would be paved with stone. Property owners from the Booth store on Market St., to the railroad were required to build plank sidewalks eight feet in width. They were to be spiked down with 12 or 16 inch spikes. A new project was undertaken in March, 1866. Paris was divided into four wards for the purpose of sanitary inspection. Inspectors appointed were: C.W. Levings, J.R. Martin, John Gist, Martin U.B. Mann. Implementing this action, a Board of Health was created made up of Doctors John Tenbrook, Stephen J. Young and L. L. Todd. The big project of 1868 was certainly the building of a new Engine House and Market House which would include a Council cham- ber. May 28, 1869, was a very special day for Paris. It became a city, with a charter pro- viding for a Mayor and Council. Four wards were set up and the councilman would re- present his particular ward in which he Uved. About the same date, the Paris School Dis- trict was given its charter. An official seal was adopted showing a hand holding a pair of scales. The two main arteries through town now had their names changed. Market Street be- came Main street on the east side of the Square, and Main became Central on the west side. As the new year opened in 1870, juvenile delinquency was given a blow when an ordi- nance was passed prohibiting minors from playing billiards without written permission from their parents. Barber shops were now prohibited ft'om opening on Sundays. The first figures of real estate and per- sonal property assessments were noted in the minutes in 1870, amounting to $1,059,299.00. A 5 mills tax was levied. In 1872, an ordinance was passed formally designating seven streets by name: Central, Main, Jefferson, Wood, Court, Edgar and An- drew. Numbering of houses and lots was or- dered: all even numbers on the east and north, with odd numbers on the west and south sides of streets. Macadamizing of city streets occupied the attention of the Council in 1874, as such a pro- ject was approved. The first street to be so treated was Main street on the east side of the Square. In other action on streets. South street was re-named Elm, and Middle street became Washington. Alexander street was extended to Court street. The year 1882 proved statistically interest- ing. Paris had a population of 5,000; six railroads served it; there were over 150 bus- inesses; and 112 persons had telephones. Electricity officially made its appearance in Paris during the month of August, 1886. The people had voted by a majority of 348 to set up an electric light system, and dis- continue the use of gas for lighting. In May, 1887, the Beacon reported that 250 people had already subscribed for electricity. In January, 1896, the new reservoir was designated as "Reservoir Park and Lake", and on Arbor Day more than 200 shade trees were set out. There had been an attempt to name it "Alexander Park and Lake" to honor J.W.S. Alexander, a pioneer citizen who had lost his life in the Civil War. In 1897, 45 new electric lamps were erected on "neat iron towers" throughout the town. The lights were at the end of an arm project- ing 30 feet out over the streets. A curfew ordinance - the first in the hist- ory of Paris - was enacted in December, 1899. A 9:00 p.m,, time in summer and an 8:00 p,m,, hour in winter were agreed upon. Any child 14 years of age or under had to be off the sti-eets at those times unless accom- panying their parents. The fire bell was to be tapped as the warning bell. A project which engaged the attention of the public in 1902 was the establishing of a free public library. The site settled upon was the Myers- Gingerick property on south Main !ea Nurth Main Street From Wood to Railroad, Early 1900s. South Side of Square About 1900, Looking East. East Court Street From Main, About 190 Speed Limit Was 15 Miles Per Hour For Cars St. The Woman's Club proposed to donate 1,000 volumes to the library as a start. J.E. Parrish was the first chairman of the Library Board, with Dr. E.O. Laughlin serving as se- cretary. The Paris Carnegie Library was completed and opened in 1904. It is one of the out- standing libraries in Illinois. The library adds much to the culture and enlightenment of the people of Paris and Edgar County. For near- ly 70 years the library has rendered a ser- vice in the community, which has been deeply appreciated by thousands of patrons. The people of Paris and Edgar County are encouraged to acquaint themselves with lit- erature of an educational, inspirational and informational nature. As of September, 1973, the library has the following for loan or use: Loan of books from a collection of 24,000 volumes. Loan of magazines from over 125 subscrip- tions. Current tax information (t'ederal Tax Guide) Current stock market information (Moodys) Loan of recordings from large record col- lections. Latest mysteries and novels (best sellers). Late editions of ten sets of encyclopedias. Up to date reference materials for research projects. Five daily newspapers and two weekly. Access through Lincohi Trail Library Sys- tem to state, university and city libraries for materials rot in library collection. Art reproductions, records and films pro- vided by Lincoln Trail Library System. Arranging series of films for institutional and club programs. Separate library on lower level for children and young people with children's librarian in attendance. Story hour for three to five year old chil- dren. Films for children at regularly scheduled dates. Books for hospitals and nursing homes. Telephone reference service and aid tor fin- ding material at any ume by the Library Staff. Room available for civic meetings, showing of films, etc. Coin operated copying machine for use by the public. Large collection of historical data about Paris, Edgar County, family history, etc. The spring of 1903 presaged a building boom. Already |250,000 worth of construction was planned. The Beacon proudly listed all of the prospective improvements. The first Chautauqua Assembly - a popular movement in the United States about this time, was set for August 4-13, 1905, bringing prominent speakers and entertainers to Paris. Camp sites at the lake and park were rented for this brief session. Automobile speed limits were now set at 15 miles an hour on streets; this applied also to bicycles and other kinds of vehicles. The big news of 1908 was the opening of an interurban transportation system between Terre Haute and Paris. A dog tax was levied for the first time in 1908. To those who were thirsty during the sum- mer, water coolers, filled with mineral water, were placed at the comers of the Square. For a penny a glass, one could quaff ice wat- er. The cooler was simply a contrivance whereby one deposited a penny and the water appeared in a glass. W.W. Rector and W.W. Hinds were the lessees. Some population statistics interested Pari- sians in 1911. The official U.S. Census gave Paris 7,664 inhabitants, a gain of 1,559 over 1900. It was pointed out, however, that the regular census was taken during a depression period when many families had moved away- had they been counted the figure would have been closer to 9,000. For several issues of the Beacon a banner head appeared on the front page reading "Boost, Breath, Sing & Pray Every Minute for 20,000 Population for Paris in 1915." By the Federal census of 1910, the Edgar County population figure showed a de- cline, the total figure being 27,886. Paris and Paris Township had 16,065 residents. In 1914, police were ordered to force parked autos around the Square to park inward in- stead of parallel, to make more room, espe- cially on nights during the summer when band concerts were heard on the Court House LawTi. A major change in the government of Paris occurred in 1915, when the commission form was adopted. On Februarj' 26 by more than 2 to 1 majority the people of Paris voted to change their government. The women's vote was almost solid for the change. The Beacon asked that the new "toy" be given a fair chance to ope'-ate. In 192C, the possibility of an airport for Kidder Corn Miilins Plant. Forerunner of Illinois Cereal Mills. Propst Lumber Company ^ Merkle-Wiley Broom Company, World's Largest, About 1914. Street Cars Made Their Finall Run in 1928 Paris was discussed by the Council after hear- ing flying enthusiast Archie Hickman tell of the progress of commercial aviation. In June, 1920, Sunday dancing was prohib- ited at Reservoir Park. The year 1921 opened with the establish- ment of the first automobile parking lot. On April 12th, George Bibo was granted permis- sion to establish such a lot on the O'Hair property on E. Wood St. In the Fall of 1921, neai- the intersection of .lasper and S. Main Sts. a park was opened and it was a prideful improvement for that area. It had been used by the city for a water reservoir. The land for the Park was given to the city by Maurice Sholem. It was to be named Sylvain Park, named after his son. In October, 1921, the name "Sylvain" was received for the park, with a stipulation that it was to be retained by the city so long as the use of the land was for park purposes. Further, it was stipulated Sylvain Park be- longs to the city of Paris only under one condition. As long as there is water stored on it, the park belongs to the city. In the event the water tower reservoir is removed or the park is not used for water works purposes, the city will lose the deed. On October 31, 1922, the Council granted permission to O.L. and Laura Jarodsky to conduct a motion picture house on the west side of the Square. Early in December, 1922, J. Edwin Vance, Charles E. Shaw, and Walter S. Lamon were appointed as a special committee to work with other committees on the approaching celebration of the 100th birthday of the organ- ization of Paris and Edgar County. The State Game and Fish Commission of- ficially designated Reservoir Lake as a fish preserve on May 15, 1923. 1928 was the last year for street cars in Paris. A fire in January destroyed the street cars of the Illinois Traction Co., and in May its franchise was rescinded. However, the company was authorized to operate a bus ser- vice. Meanwhile, the street car tracks had to be removed. Sometime previously to 1937 Reservoir Park had become Twin Lakes Park. A 20 mile speed limit was placed on the road going through the park. As the year 1942 closed, Horace, Paxson and Dick Link gave a parcel of land facing West End avenue to the city for only park purposes. They also contributed $2,500 toward its improvements. It could not be used for carnivals, fairs, or shows. Three persons liv- ing in that vicinity were to be added to the Park Board. If used for other than park purposes the land reverted to the Links or their heirs. If not used within two years after the close of World War II, the money was to revert to the donors. Finally, it was given the romantic name of Sunset Park. During 1943, the Midwest Body Co., provided labor and materials for the constmction of the Edgar County War Memorial on the east side of the Courthouse grounds. The War Me- morial is dedicated To Those From Edgar County Who Served in World War I and World War II. Preliminary planning is now under- way to expand the War Memorial to include those who served in Korea and Vietnam. During 1944, Mr. Herschel B. O'Hair, pro- vided money for the devdopment of a park located at the corner of Edgar and High Sts. The park is comprised of approximately 6 acres and is named Sunrise Park. The park has a public playground and picnic area. A baseball diamond and swimming pool for youth under 12 years of age is available. There are many unusual and rare trees in Sunrise Park, such as: Japanese Cherry Bark Maple, Golden Sweet Gum, Desert Ash, Lilly of Valley, Mountain Maple and Flowering Scanlan Cherry which is a cross between a wild cherry and Japanese cnerry tree. Sunrise Park is one of the beauty spots in Paris. These beautiful trees provide a panorama of color during Spring, Summer and especially during the Fall. Parking meters came to Paris in 1947. Formal dedication of the Kiwanis Memorial Park north of town occurred No\'ember 8,1948. The Council was present to watch the unveiling of a monument to the war dead of Edgar County. In February, 1951, an ordinance was passed and approved, relating to the licensing, taxing, and regulation of taxicabs within the City of Paris. During June, 1951, the Council received a communication from Union 450 of the Brother- hood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Han- gers of America complaining of city employees (Police Dept) working on time when not on duty in competition to the recognized painting contractors. The position of the Council was that if city employees give the city of Paris i\s money's worth while he was on duty and con- duc-ted himself as a gentleman and good resi- dent of the City of Paris, that was aU that was necessary. During August, 1951, tlie Council resolved that the Paris Baseball Team be congratu- lated on the dedication of the "Laker Sta- dium" on August 25, 1951, and to extend a hearty welcome to William "BUI" Veeck, as the speaker for said occasion. "The Paris Paris Street Car at Reservoir Park (Iwin Lakes Park) early 1900s. Main Street Looking North, Early 1900s. Big i-our Depot, Between Main and Central, About 1914. Third Lake Is Built In 1960 Lakers are to be contratulated for their show- ing in the M.O.V. League and they are a worthy addition to the recreational facilities of the Community." During October, 1954, an ordinance author- izing and providing for the issue of J350,000 waterworks and Sewerage Revenue Bonds was enacted, for the purpose of defraying the cost of constructing improvements to the ex- isting combined waterworks and sewerage sy- stem. This action was done in the best in- terest of public health and safety. During April, 1955, it was resolved by the Council that salaries of employees of the City of Paris be increased 15 percent effective May 1, 1955. During February, 1955, an ordinance divid- ing the City into four voting precincts and fixing boundaries thereof for the Primary and General Municipal Elections was adopted. An ordinance was passed in Feb. 1955, au- thorizing the central Illinois Public Service Co., to construct, operate and maintain a gas utility and electric light, heat and power sy- stem in the City of Paris. During Feb. 1955, an ordinance grantmg the right and permission to Deluxe Transit Ser- vice Co., to maintain and operate a motor bus system for hire upon the streets of Paris. An ordinance was passed during Aug. 1955, regulating and licensing the operation of mo- tor boats on Twin Lakes. The Council passed an ordinance during August, 1955, for a Municipal Retailer's Oc- cupational Tax. The tax imposed upon all persons engaged in the business of selling tangible personal property at retail in Paris at the rate of ^ of one percent of the gross receipts. During Nov. 1956, a special election was held in Paris to elect a Police Magistrate. Grover Hoff received 775 votes and was elec- ted to the office of Police Magistrate. The Council met in special session June 28, 1957, for the purpose of taking necessary em- ergency action in regard to damage and loss caused by app. 10 inches of rain which start- ed the night of June 27th and continued through most of the following morning and resulting in washing out the lower spillway. An ordinance authorizing and providing for the issue of $510,000 Waterworks and Sewer- age Revenue Bonds was made in February, 1959, for the purpose of defraying the cost of constructing improvements and extensions to the waterworks and sewerage system. Action was taken by the Council in Feb. 1960, for the contract and constructing the Third Lake Dam to provide additional water supply to Paris. During the period 1960 to 1965, five new in- dustries were established in Pans, which add- ed app. $7,000,000 annually in pay for the em- ployees livmg in Paris and Edgar County. During early 1962, many new streets and new additions were dedicated and added to the city of Paris. An ordinance was adopted in May, 1965, au- thorizing and providing for the issue of $2,700,000 water works and sewerage revenue bonds in the interest of public health and safety in order that the combined water- works and sewerage system be improved and extended. During March, 1966, Council authorized the hiring of a City Engineer effective April 1, 1966. How much does it cost to operate the City of Paris? Appropriations for fiscal year May, 1966 thru April, 1967 were authorized to defray all expenses and liabilities of the City of Paris - a grand total of $1,088,398.40 was au- thorized. For fiscal year May, 1967 thru April 1968, $1,225,562.66 was authorized. During 1966 and 1967, Council made arrang- ements for purchase of property for addition- al off street parking areas. An ordinance in Jan. 1968, annexing Fair- way Acres subdivision to the City of Paris was enacted. During Sept. 1968, the Council authorized the Central Illinois Public Service Co., to pre- pare an engineering survey providing for the conversion of the street lights of the city to 7,000 Lumens by the installation of mercury vapor lights. The City of Paris was formally incorporated and reorganized under Special Act of the 26th General Assembly of the State of lUinois, on April 15, 1869, and subsequent voter approval and effective on June 1, 1869. The Council in Jan. 1969, resolved that the week of June 1st through 8th, 1969, be designated as "Paris Centennial of Incorporation Week." In Feb. 1969, the Council resolved that the datum point established by the United States coast and Geodetic Survey situated in the Courthouse yard be adopted as the official datum point for the City of Paris, said point being represented by a sunken post with a U.S.C. & G.S. Standard Disk stamped "Paris" (elevation 726.30 M.S.L.) located at the S.W. Comer of Edgar County Counhouse grounds. In Oct. 1969, the Council granted permission to install a historical marker in the City Park situated north of Twin Lakes and west of Illinois Highway No. 1. The marker contains information relative to the establishment Paris High School, About 1914 Paris Schools, Early 1900s. ]\ew Paris YMCA-Hangar Building Opens in 1972 of the community now known as Paris, Illi- nois. During Nov. 1969, a resolution, adopted for constnicting, purchase and equipping a new central fire and police station building for the City of Paris was approved. An ordinance was introduced in Jan. 1970, for remodeling of the City Office Building at 123 S. Central Ave. On November 9, 1970, the new Paris Com- munity Hospital was opened with a capacity of 100 beds. During Nov. 1970, Council resolved that it is the intent of the Paris City Council to enter into a cooperative agreement with the Edgar County Board of Supervisors to help finance a county wide ambulance service and to make application for assistance under the Highway Safety Act. The resolution was adopted and passed. In 1971, Samuel Vance Park was establish- ed at the N.W. comer of Washington and Central Ave. The park was established to honor Samuel Vance who founded Paris in 1823. This park was given to the people of Paris by Louise Cole Link, a descendant, and Paxson Link. In March, 1971, an ordinance annexing real estate of Hospital and Medical Foundation of Paris, Inc., to the City of Paris was intro- duced in Council. In May, 1971, a resolution was moved, pass- ed and adopted congratulating radio station WPRS on their 20th anniversary. During 1971, a major beautification and landscape project was initiated by interested, public spirited citizens. The project included the planting of 18 linden trees, dogwood trees, red bud trees, evergreen trees on the Edgar County Courthouse grounds. In July, 1971, an ordinance was introduced annexing i-eal estate of the Heritage House of Paris, Inc., The Edgar County Children's Home to the City of Paris. In March, 1972, a resolution was made to cooperate with the County in maintaining an Investigative Officer. A resolution was passed and adopted in March, 1972, to participate in the continuous Highway Needs Study. In April, 1972, a resolution was passed and adopted acct^pting the recommendation of the Paris Plan Commission to subdivide a parcel of land located north of the Pinnell Motel on Route 1. One of the highlights of 1972 was the open house on Sunday, June 25th of the Paris Com- munity YMCA-Hangar building on E. Madison St. The building was open for business on Monday, June 26th. A plan plus determina- tion and the enthusiastic support of the entire community, made possible the opening of the fantastic new $650,000 locally financed YMCA- Hangar building. Special features; swimming pool 40 x 75 ft. - six lane competition size. Multipurpose i-oom -recreational-meeting room. Meeting rooms. Hangar with lounge, food service and recre- ational area. This fine community building is truly an outstanding community achievement. A resolution approving a contract between Edgar County and City of Paris for a Detec- tive Bureau was passed and adopted in Jan. 1973. In Jan. 1973, Council passed and adopted a resolution commending the Paris High School band on their participation in the Washington D.C. Inaugural Parade. The present Mayor and City Commissioners were elected in April, 1971, for four years; Mayor William R. Quinn COMMISSIONERS Wayne L, Blume Dr. Nolan M. Sullivan L. Leon Foltz Harold H. Cartwright Frances N. Clearwater is City Clerk So Paris ended 150 years of progress which saw nothing startling or abnormal in its growth. New industries and business estab- lishments had livened the business of the community. Over the years the Paris Cham- ber of Commerce has been a vital link in the growth of Paris and making the city a good place to work and live. Paris has a great future. 1 tr '. 1 -J ^■."«P^'"*-'5«»;sp :=sr SSt. ^-t- fe^ - ■w**i»*ii^^^^ ■ m ■riiBiiiiiiiiii wmmmm^^'^^^^'^ wNKflMM flsL A ■ 1^ Steamer 'The City of Paris' Carried 125 Passengers on Reservoir Lake In 1898. Old Paris Hotel, East Court Street, About 1900. Original Paris Fire Station Built In 1868, and Edgar County Jail. Map of Edgar County - 1910 L X i 1 K| tiRAC'^ KiMscoi'AL Church. St. Mary s C.\tholk' Chi kch. Mbtuodist Protestant Church. Skcond BAiTiaT Church. Pkbsbvtbrias Church. \ LmSL U. B. Chi KCH. Churches of Paris, 1898. Brief History of County, Towns ^ Villages Edgar County was organized on Jan. 3, 1823. It perpetuates the name of General John Edgar, whose greatest service to his country was that he saved Vermont and, in all probability, New Hampshire and Maine from becoming a part of Canada. He was the greatest landholder and the wealthiest resident of Illinois in his day. Born in Ireland, John Edgar commanded a British vessel on Lakes Huron and Erie when the American revolution began. He espoused the cause of the colonies, was ar- rested Aug. 24, 1779 by the British in Detroit and served over two years in prison. Later he learned of a plot to betray Vermont to the enemy. He got the message to Congress which then was sitting in Philadelphia. The conspiracy was foiled as a result of Gen. Edgar's information and three states were saved to the young nation. Congress showed its gratitude by voting him a grant of 2,240 acres of land on April 7, 1798. The Edgars arrived in Kaskaskia, Illinois in 1784. He be- came a merchant, built flour mills and manu- factured and sold salt. In a few years his great business ability and thrift enabled him to accumulate about 50,000 acres of land in Illinois, as well as large tracts in Ohio, In- diana and Missouri. Although not formally education in the law, he served ably for near- ly a quarter of a century on the bench of the Court of Common Pleas. i»^ When Illinois was admitted into the Union as a state, in 1818, it was composed of fif- teen counties. One of these, Crawford, includ- ed what is now Edgar County. The farthest north of any of these counties was Bond, whose northern boundry was limited only by the State-line. Indeed, it would have been rather difficult for a geographer to have de- finitely pointed out the exact limits of any county on its northern boundary. Only about one-fourth of the State was really embraced in these counties. The settled portions of Illinois were all south of a line from Alton via Carlisle to Palestine, near the Wabash. The organization of the State drew the at- tention of emigrants toward it, and a conse- quent enlargement of the settlements. This necessitated the formation of more counties. The influx of immigrants to the northern portions of Crawford County, in 1819 and 1820, led to the formation of Clark County, which by a simlar manner, in the spring of 1823 suffered a division, and Edgar County was the result. When Edgar County was established, it included all territory to the north to the Wisconsin border, including Ft. Dearborn, or Chicago, at that time a pioneer outpost. One popular story concerns the efforts of the first sheriff of Edgar County to travel by horse- back to Chicago to collect taxes due. Since he had to meet expenses out of the tax Income, it cost him more than he collected. The next year he paid the taxes himself, and saved the trip. Samuel Vance and his family, including two married sons, two married daughters with their families, unmarried children, and his brother John with his family came from Bount County, Tennessee to what is now the center of Edgar County in October 1822. En- route he stopped at the Land Office at Pales- tine, Illinois and entered and paid for 80 acres of land where Paris now stands. Upon this land he and his relatives built their log homes. In January and again in April 1623, Samuel returned to Palestine and entered and paid for additional tracts, which, with the original entry, totaled 5fi5 aci«s. In 1830 he acquii-ed 160 acres more by entry. FYom the early purchases he gave the land for the ori- ginal town of Paris — 26 acres surveyed from an oak tree he designated in its center. TTie Court House is in exactly the center of this 26 acres. N BROCTON One of the early business establishments in the village of Brocton was a firm comh posed of Link and Ed Gillis. TTiey carried a full line of furniture, hardware, stoves, guns, and tinware. This firm also did under- taking and embalming. C. A. Merica was the proprietor of Merica's Bank in Brocton. Stewart & Payne Lumber Company flourish- ed for several years prior to J A. Green's purchasing it in 1890. Brinkerhoff & Wright were grain dealers and Henn & Cryder were operators of the Brocton Elevator. An early physician was Henry C. Kerrick who grad- uated from Rush Medical College and est- ablished at Brocton in the early 1890's. CHRISMAIS Chrisman had a population of over 1,500 in the 1890's and had a flourishing business in the northern part of the county. One of the town's business men was Joseph S. Cham- bers who settled in that area in 1863 and Tater moved in to Chrisman to engage in busi- ness and to become one of the town's early Mayors. W. J. McAnally established a lunv ber business in Chrisman in 1888. John Mit- chell & Co. was doing business in a 20 x 150 foot building with an upstairs where were solid carpets, oil cloths, window shades, etc.; down stairs general dry goods, clothing, etc. W. F. Wood ran the racket store for a "thousand Chrisman Main Street, About 1914. Big Four Railroad Station In Chrisman, About 1914. Kansas Main Street, About 1914. otJier thiflgs too numerous to mention." Isaac Scott's adjustable groave box cover was manufactured here in 1892. In 1887, A. S. Harmony was editor of the Chrisman Cour- ier. He was known as a bold and fearless writer and a strong fighter for the good of the community. A. E. Schnitker operated the com- er drug store back in 1891 and sold all drug lamps, jewelry, etc. Chrisman celebrated its centennial in July, 1972 with a week's program that drew thousands of visitors for parade, pageants, and special e^■ents. The community conUnes to grow, being only city beside Paris to show a population increase, with construc- tion of a new post office and a large new full nursing care center marking economic progress. The community also is developing a new city park. DUDLEY When the Indianapolis & St. Louis Railroad bypassed Grandivew in 1853 the slow demise of that community led to the rise of the nearest •ail stop, the town of Dudley. The land on which the village stands was owned by John Cline and was surveyed in 1855. The first house in the village already was standing, built by Alexan- der Young. By 1879 the town included some 300 residents, had a physician, a post office, a two-story frame schoolhouse and a "new" lodge hall for Grandview Masonic Lodge No. 198 — the majority of the members of the lodge by this time living in Dudley, not Grand- view. EDGAR The village of Edgar was laid out for N. 3. Stage in 1872. Gideon Minor built the Jirst home in the village. In its early days there were several stores run by Frank Hun- ter, Gideon Minor, A. L. Stanfield, and W. A. Hiers. L. T. Church was one of the early blacksmiths and wood-workers in the 80's. A few houses and an empty school are all that now remain at Edgar. ELBRIDGE The village of Elbridge was platted in 18S6 and a post office was secured in that same year. Elbridge experienced an "indus- trial boom" m the late 1960s when Midwest- em Gas Transmission Co. laid a natural gas transmission line past the community, and then developed huge underground natural gas storage "domes" in the Elbridge and Nevins areas. GRANDVIEff Aric Sutherland and Thos. Gary came into the county and settled in 1823 at what is now known as Grandview. At one time the vill- age of Grandvaew was looked upon as the permanent county seal, being even more popular than Paris in the early days. The first "tavern" in the county was erected in thethe village of Grandview and the first sessions of school in the township were held there. The Baptist Church was the first organized with the Methodists coming short- ly thereafter in 1835. The village was laid out in 1831. HORACE H. Guthrie laid out the village of Horace, June 6, 1876 for A. Tucker. D. F. Stroll was the leading merchant there back in 1881 and was also the freight and ticket agent for the Big Four Railroad. G. K. Tucker operat- ed the grain business for Oscar Jones and in addition was a practicing veterinarian. Rev. E. C. Lile was an early pastor of the Mis- sionarj' Baptist Church. HUME With the completion of the I. D. & S. R. R., Hume was laid out in 1873. Geo. W. Hughes was President of the Hughes' Bank. The cashier was H. E. Shepherd. Oliver Lyon established a lumber yard in Hume in 1884. 0. H. Rogers and A. J. Davis established a general store in 1884. T. J. Gallivan and T. C. Touhey built a tile and brick plant in 1889. Hughes and Connelly were proprietors of the Emporium where the "largest, best selected and best kept stocks of dry goods, groceries, clothing, hats, caps, boots, shoes, crockery, glassware, and goods of all de- scriptions suitable for everj' taste and adapt- ed to every purse could be showed." C. O. Rogers established a harness business m 1880, and Dave McCall was a blacksmith and hard- ware dealer in 1884. Hume celebrated its centennial this July with a three-day observation including a brief return visit by one of its most distin- guished natives. Dr. Edward Doisey of St. Louis. Edgar County's only Nobel Prize win- ner. ISABEL The location of the Paris and Decatur Rail- road was the signal for a system of town- building by the railroad developers. Isabel was one of these communities, near the early settle- ment of New .Athens. In 1871 the railroad was built and in 1872 the town was ordered to be laid out by Messrs. Corzine. Timmons and House). The town was named after John Cornne's wife, Isabel Corzine. .^n elevator was soon opened by Corzine and Walls. Dr. J. G. Mulvane was the first physician, settling in 1872. Isabel had a population of 100 in 1879. KANSAS settlement began in Kansas Township as early as 1823 with the arrival of Frederick and Abraham Boyer from Kentucky. The Big Four Station In Kansas, 1914. Interurban Station, Vermilion, 1914, The Building Still Remains. Big Four Railroad, Vermilion, 1914. village of Kansas was laid out in 1830 for Lovel Willioit, who caused the town to be sur- veyed and platted in June of 1853. The vil- age was called Midway because of its loca- tion between Paris and Charleston and In- dianapolis and St. Louis. The village of Kan- sas was incorporated in 1858 and was named to con-espond with the township which was organized a year earlier. John W. Hogue was the first merchant and displayed his wares in a 16 x 30 foot building just north of the railroad. The first hotel was run by Riley McDavitt, The first regular saloon was kept by a Mr. Burdette. J. K. and W. F. Boyer pioneers in the hay and grain business, which Kansas monopolized for the area. The Staff Bros. Cannery Company built in 1888 was the largest of its kind west of Baltimore. The first newspaper began publication in 1868, the first telegraph line came through in 1847, and telephones were first used in 1899. The private banking house of Pinnell, Boyer & Co. began operation in 1872. The historic name of "Midway" is now in use again with the development of a new apartment complex just south of the business district, known as "Midway Manor" apart- ments. METCALF At the intersection of the I. D. & S. R. R. and the Narrow Gauge Road (known now as the Nickle Plate R. R.) the village of Metcalf was established. In 1874 Mr. John A. Metcalfe laid out the town and later deed- ed this property to the town itself. Metcalf was a tliriving little community, at one time having a population of about 750, several business houses, a church, schools, and a bank. Some of these early proprietors were — S. C. Cash who ran the General Store featuring everything from "needles to thresh- ing machines"; William Jennings, ilie black- smith, and J. H. Jones, who in the 1880's own- ed and maintained the tile factory. R. J. Smith and Harry Epps who ran the local elevators which were two of the largest in the area. In 1894 the community erected the first Methodist Church building and establish- ed the Farmer's Bank which later was re- established as the First National Bank of Metcalf. NKVim Nevins was th** re.sult nf the rharterinc of the Paris and Terre Haute railroad in 1872. and was laid out bv Countv Survevor Ceoree Fore- man earlv in 1874 on land belonging to James and B. F. Parrish and Ashler Morton. Mr. l\Torton and his brother .Tohn erected a een- pral ^fnre apf^ p nnsi off'pp wpc .se^'urpd pnd named in conjunction ivith the town in honor nf RobPrt N. Neyins of Paris. A blacksmith shop soon opened, and the Baptists erected a "very neat" church. OLIVER Oliver was established in 1875 under the name of Big Siding. Oliver Davis, living in the immediate area, took an active part in starting the village and in his honor the name was changed. Since timber was abundant, the first businesses including the making of char- coal, and of barrel staves. The store and post office were opened by M. S. Brewer. REDMOIS Redmon was a flourishing community with these business houses by the early 1870's. J. S. Gordan was the first postmaster and merchant. He operated a general store with his son. C. N. Standley operated the drug store and was also the veterinary surgeon. On the side he maintained a coal agency and wrote insurance. R. D. Roberts also op- erated a general store. The Ferguson Bros, were proprietors of the Redmon RoUer Mills which they bought in 1890. Daniel McMullen and Sidney Myers operated a grocery and general store. W. M. White came from Isabel to become the boot and shoe maker of Red- mon in 1890. He also made and carried a full line of harness, bridles, halters, etc. Willis Brinkerhoff was a grain dealer in the early 90's. Jacquart Bros, were manufacturers of tile and brick having established their busi- ness in 1874. H. S. Helmer established a blacksmith shop just south of the Vandalia Depot in 1879. Just west of Redmon, the Embarrass Park remains a popular community center, with the former church and its wooded picnic grounds frequently in use throughout the sum- mer. SCOTTLAISD The plat for the building of Scottland was recorded September 17, 1872. It was laid out for Wm. Scott. The first cost office was established in 1873. Some of the merchants were A. N. Workman who was a general merchant. W. S. O.sbom who carried a line of drugs, patent medicines, school books and other goods. A. Wekenman, dry goods, cloth- ing, groceries, boots, hardware, etc. Scottland celebrated its centennial in 1972 with a brief celebration. The town still in- cludes a number of homes, several business- es, and the Scottland school, now the junior high and upper grade school for Community Unit Six. VERMILION Edward Wolcott surveyed and laid out the town of Vermilion in 1856 for James S. Ver- milion. The first store was established here 'Bird's Eye View' of Paris at Turn of the Century. Pavii.ios, 4l>x6) Fkbt- RusEKvoiit Pakk. Mbkry-»0'Round — Kbskkvoir Park. Scenes of 'Reservoir Park' in 1898, Site of Present Scout Park. in 1857 by Abram Showalter. In 1861 the first post office was established with C. Showalter as postmaster. In 1872 Vermilion was incor- porated as a village. The first Church built in Vermilion was by the United Brethren in 1856 at a cost of $500.00. Some of the eariy business men were D. S. Van Sickel, who had a 22 x 80 foot general store just north of the Big Four Depot. The Store was established in 1878. 0. N Koonu was a contractor and builder. J. A. Homberger was in business about 1861 as a carpenter and contractor and later operated a building sup- plies and general hardware store. Some early landmarks including the Strat- ton Masonic Lodge hall, and the Paris-Terre Haute interuruban station built during the World War One era, still stand, but the old Vermilion school has been razed. In connec- tion with the Illinois Sesquicentennial of 1968 Vermilion organized a three-day Frontier Festival for the old "Pike Precinct" terri- tory of Edgar county, which was quite popu- lar. At one time Vermilion was the strawberry- growing capital of east-central Illinois with a large cooperative shipping warehouse in op- eration. Scarsity of labor following World War II terminated this agricultural effort. This history of Paris and Edgar County gives the reader something of the background of the men and women who settled and developed this good land of ours. From the eartiest white men who invaded the Kickapoo Hunting Grounds in the first two decades of the 19th Century through the era of pur- chase of additional lands from the Indians in 1822 (which added greatly to the land that General Harrison surveyed in 1799 and sold to the white settlers in Vincennes as early as 1816) progress had been steadily made. The progress of thirteen decades has mold- ed a new civilization. Little did these first settlers realize that the land they first clear- ed would be populated by television-viewing, radio-listening, jet aircraft-fljing descendants. In the time it took the first settler to travel down to the land office on horseback to Pales- tine, Illinois or Vincennes, we can now fly tine, Illinois or Vincennes, we can now fly to Europe, it may well be that the next history to be written will find Edgar County people sUU producing the food and fiber for an ever greater industrial civilization and travel even farther and faster by atomic rocket and space shpp through the galaxy. There are many other "communities" in the county which are now just place names on a map or plat book, but which once were the beginnings of communities or hopes for communities. Among these are Isabel and Borton just north of Route 133 at the vk«st edge of the county, still containing some homes; Dudley just north of Route 16 and Oliver at the south edge of the county on Route One which contains homes, businesses and churches; and Hildreth, McCown Station, Mortimer Station, Woodyard Station, Cherry Point, Raven Station (llliana); Dayton, Kidley, Bloomfield, Hughes Station, Melwood Station, Payne Station, Garland, Wetzel Station, Lo- gan, Baldwinsville, Ne\v Athens, Warrenton, Flemington, Conlogue, Mays Station, Grover, Swango, Midway (near Nevins), Marley, Fer- rell, west Sandford, and Kentucky or "Ken- tuck Station." Wood Street, North Side Square, 1914. Original Mayo School, Built as The First High School SECTION OF COURT STREET North Main Street Looking North From Court Street, 1914. West Court Street, Looking East, 1914. The "Big Four" Freight Yards From Buena Vista Bridge Looking West North Main Street Looking South From Union Street, 1914. Original Fire Department, City Hall Building, 1914. Logan Lumber Yard, 1914, Now Present Paris City Kail. T.A.FO'u- . V BAUD SmvCO HAROynXHM Foley Sawmill, 1914, Oldest Famiiy-Operated Business In Edgar County. feA<;<- ■'•('««>>< ■■•'■i>." : ■ Bits of History Still Remain. Three original log cabins still stand but only one is in use. Upper left, last sur- viving portion of a stagecoach tavern and bam, on the Lower Terre Haute Road near the Indiana State Line; upper right, the two-room log cabin built at the turn of the century by C. P. Hitch, Beacon publisher, on the "new" Reservoir Lake, still being used as a lakeside cottage; lower left, abandoned one-room (plus lean-to) log cabin across from the Kidley School east of Logan; lower right, one of a number of abandoned one-room rur- al schools weathering away— this one the South Union School District No. 128. Palmer Academy, One of the Earliest Educational Institutions, Just Before It Was Razed In 1971. ^■'-^^:^-n- -■* ■-■•:^.vt^' Last Remaining Section of Original Clinton Road Brick Pavement, First Hard Road To Be Laid In County 50 ifears Earlier, Remains Near Golf Course With Rebuih Highway In The Background. Mosi General Stores, This One at Elbndge, Had Closed By 1970. The Paris & Terre Haute RR Was Built in 1872, Abandoned 100 Years Later. News today, history tomorrow Paris has enjoyed generally good fortune — and even misfortune which turned into good fortune — Ir recent years. The city has experienced steady if not spectacular residen- tial de\elopment, business gi-owth and en- richment of recreational and educational ser- vices. One historic misfortune came in a record Ifl-ijich rainfaD on June 27-28, 1957, washing away the top portion of the East Lake spillway, and flooding the entire community. Earlier, in 1954-55, the lakes had dried up to a mud- hole, and the city was feverishly drilling tem- porary wells to meet the worst drought in Paris' history. These events, plus a less severe drought in 1958 combined to spark a campaign for a new "third lake" financed by a half million dollar bond issue approved by the city council. The lake was completed in 1961. The appearance of the community continued to change, generally for the better. Part of tlie facelifting came with municipal improvements as the old "city hall" dating back to the Civil War era, was torn down, A stylish new fire and police station was erected on Wash- mgton street and city hall quarters on South Central were remodeled in 1970. This left the corner site of the original city haU for the new ornamental Samue] Vance Park, featuring gas lights, a Lion's Head fountain and sunken garden, all provided by a private benefactor as a gift to the city. The park honors the memory of the city's founder, Samuel Vance, v/ho donated the oringinal 26 acres for Paris 150 years ago. It sits across the street from one of the most historic buildings in Paris, the imposing home of Gen. Milton K. Alexander, a pioneer Paris businessman and contemporary of Abra- ham Lincoln. Downtown business interests, in cooper- ation with the county government, also under- took major facelifting in the 1970s with a com- plete relandscaping of the courthouse yard. This included perimeter planting of Linden trees and new ornamental foundation shrub- bery, and new sidewalks around the court- house. The Chamber of Commerce also launched a system of uniform sidewalk can- opies on the business sides of the square, tying the district into one connecting "shopping center" with protection from sum- mer sun and inclement weather. Business modernizations and landscaping, as well as new construction by aU four finan- cial institutions in the past decade further en- hansed the downtown community. Greatest change occurred along North Main and East Wood streets during these years. Several dozen of the century-old buildings were razed for the Union Street extension between Main and Central, development of city and bank off-street parking lots, and remodeling of property fcllowing a disasterous fire in Jan- uary, 1972 which gutted a half block of Main street north of the square. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY A post-war Industrial boom started late in the 1950s when the Chamber of Conmierce pro- vided land for a new district office complex for the Illinois Division of Highways. The site, at the west edge of Paris on Route 133, was expanded into a true industrial park with the LusterUte division of Eagle Picher Industries locating in 1959, Central Electronics division of zenith in 1960, Bastian Blessing in 1964, later housing the Federal division of Unarco Industries. Latest addition is Beaman steel fabricators, and a short distance away the Northrup, King & Co. hybrid seed com pro- cessing plant. Meanwhile established industry also contin- ued to expand with Meco and Midwest Body both const meting additions and the Illinois Cer- eal Mills expanding in 1960, 1964 and 1967. Butler Specialties, furniture manufacturers, oc- cupied the former Merkle Broom Co. and a new home-developed industry, Litteralite, open- ed across the street. Windbreaker-DanvUle, manufactures of Windbreaker jackets, moved into downtown property. As a matter of historic note, the oldest con- tinually operating business in Edgar County is a small industry, the Paris Beacon Publishing Co. which publishes the Beacon-News. Tlie "Beacon" has been continually published since 1848 and will mark its 125th anniversary this November. RECREATION In addition to quadrupling the municipal /vater supply, construction of the additional lake in 1959 provided ex-panded water recreation facilities including a new 33-acre park. In 1970-71 the park was improved through a state grant with boat ramps and docks, rest rooms, and lighted and paved parking area. Fishing, boating, and water spOrts are enjoyed on both lakes. Many other improvements in recreation, leisure-Urne and cultural activities have come to the city. Although the Class D professional jaseball team, the Paris Lakers, played its final game in 1959, the stadium and field was do- noated to the city park system and has con- tinued in use, together with one of the finest Softball and Little League baseball complexes in the area provided by the American Legion. A new bowUng alley and a family member- ship outdoor swimming pool opened in 1962, and a new dov/ntown movie theatre opened in 1970. The Edgar County Community Concert Asso- ciation moved into its tiiird decade bringing finest in live performing ails to the local stage, and the Paris International Thanksgiving Fel- lowship for more tliar a dozfin years has turned thf community into a vs-orid cosmopoli- tan center each Nov-ember, with smaller visi- tations throughout the >-ear. TTie Carnegie Public Library underwent ex- tensive renovation and remodeling in 1972 to expand its usefulness and attractive quarters. The biggest recent recreational development was the opening of the new Paris Community YMCA and Youth Center in 1972. The youth center, known as the "Hangar," was establish- ed toward the end of World War II for junior- senior high students and now is credited with being the oldest continually operating down- stale youth center. The Y, established in Paris in the 1890s, was reestablished in 1967. The new 2,400 square foot facility, financed en- tirely by local donations, provided the first year-around swimming pool plus other com- munity meeting and family recreational facili- ties. TRANSPORTATION First stagecoach routes, and later railroads were the key to location and growth of com- munities in Edgar Cotinty, and the county it- self. By the late 1950s rail passenger service was near'ly extinct, and m 1960 the last scheduled passenger train — a single coach on the New York Central run from Indianapolis to St. Louis, passed through Paris. (By then the old Big Four station, freight house, and all other traces of once flourishing rail traffic, had been torn down). Highway and air transportation filled the gap. By 1971 Interstate 70 (parallelling the (Ad Route 40 or "The National Road") had been completed to the south of the county, and the north-south Interstate 57 opened from Mem- phis to Chicago just west of the county, near Mattoon. Although Paris was still not on an interstate, plans for a north-south supplemen- tal freeway, designated "F4ir' were advancing as fa.st as state and federal financing would permit and the freeway, passing Paris on its western edge, was expected to be a reality by the end of the 1970s. A project of at least 30 years planning was even closer tu reality, as work was expected to start early in 1974 on rebuilding the "Clinton Road," One of the earlte.st and heaviest traveled of the county highways, between Paris and many communities on the western Indiana bor- der. Another idea of long standing, dating back at least to the 1930s, was about to become reabty as construction began in the fall of 1973 on the new Edgar County Airport. The field, located midway between Paris and Chrisman on Route One, was financed primarily by state and feaeral aviation funds. Promoters of tlie airport predicted its future economic import- ance would be equal to the coming of the rail- roads more than a century earlier. GOVERNMENT Local government, closest to the people, also is slowest to change and what change comes often is by the dictate of state or federal directive. Most dramatic change in recent years came from the historic "one man, one vote" decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in the 1960s. This led to election, on April 4, 1971, of the first seven-member "Edgar County Board," wil'i apportioned "districts" of the county. It re- placed the old 18-member Edgar County Board of Supervisors, made up of super- visors and assistant supervisors from the county's 15 townships. The county also in 1973 was about to lose an elected official, the "county school superin- tendent." With his title already changed, the office faced consolidation into a multi-county "superintendent of an educational service re- gion" by 1977. Also coming up within the next few years is a change in one of the oldest forms of local government — the township. Legislation will require consolidation of smaller townships into larger "more efficient" govenunental units. EDUCATION School improvements continued countywide in the past 20 years. New school facilities were built for the consolidated area around Paris in 1955 with the opening of Crestwood School,, and eventual closing of all smaller schools in the district, wth the old Vermilion grade and high school last to go. Unit Two consolidated its four schools at Hume, Metcalf, Redmon and Brocton into a new modem Shiloh grade and high school just outside Hume; Kansas expanded its grade and high school facilities; and Chrisman built a new grade school to replace the original high .school building. Later Chrisman and Scottland voters approved school district merger with a new Unit Six formed in 1972. In Paris, St. Marys built a new parocliial grade school and Paris completed Carolyn Wenz and Memorial grade schools in the 1950s, but then faced voter resistance, voting dowii re- peated bond issue attempts in 1960s and early 1970s to remodel and expand Paris High School and-or build new elementary schools to replace the aging Redmon, Vance, Tarmer buildings. Tanner school was declared unsafe and torn down in 1972. Paris school board built an addition to the high school vocational building with "available, accumulated" funds after winning a lengthy court battle. HEALTH CARE Most dramatic improvement in health care services for the area in recent years came through the development of the new Paris Community Hospital located on a spacious site at the east edge of the city. The 120- bed facility opened Nov. 9, 1970, but the project actually started when the form- into a community not-for-profit hospital in er Paris Hospital was turned from a private 1965 leading to a successful $1 million local fundraising campaign that helped finance the new $3 million hospital. Improved health facilitJes also came in 1958 with the opening of the new Medical Center Clinic south of the old hospital which in part helped to attract several new physicians and surgeons to the community in the 1960s. The former hospital building, now designat- ed the Human Resources Building, is the loca- tion for a greatly expanded Edgar County Mental Health and Rehabilitation Center hous- ing an outpatient clinic for counseling and treat- ment of mental and emotional problems; the Alcohol and Drug Council; and the Sheltered Workshop and Work Acitivty Day Center for retarded and handicapped citizens of Edgar and Clark county. Nursing and sheltered care facilities expand- ed in the 1970s, in part in response to string- ent state regulations that closed many of the former "rest home" operations. Heritage House sheltered care facility opened near the new hospital, and local in- terests purchased and completely rebuilt the former Coding Shoe Co. plant into an at- tractive Shady Rest Manor nursing home. This fall (1973) construction started on the new Pleasant Meadows Christian Village nursing home at the west edge of Chrisman following a successful fundraising campaign with a $100,000 local goal. CHURCH AND CHARITY Concern and care for others continued to be evident in the Paris and Edgar county area. Several new church buildings have been con- structed and older churches have expanded or retiovated their buildings extensively. Working together, several churches sponsor a "Fish" program of volunteer assistance to the aged and homebound, providing food, transportation, and personal concern. The First United Methodist Church of Paris, oldest church in the county, celebrated its ses- quicentennial year in 1973 after dedicating a new educational wing in 1971. In 1965 the former Community Chest was revived in a United Fund annual campaign. This provides one fund campaign to tmder- wriie charitable activities of man local organi- zations. It has successfully met its goal and financed up to 14 member agencies each year since. The Red Cross Blood Program was established to provide a constant supply of blood yhen needed by any Edgar County resident, and successfully meets quota requirements as the Bloodmobile visits Paris, Chrisman and Kan- sas periodically. 1823 1973 Panis and Edgatt County 150 ycatt$ Later Following is a section of photographs of Paris and Edgar County as of 1973. Although during this Sesquicentennial Celebration most attention is turned to the past, and the origins of the city and the county, there should be some attention paid to the present as it will become history to succeeding generations. Therefore, for readers at the time of the Bi-Centennial of Paris and Edgar County (2023) or before or after, here are scenes of contempory life as of 1973 - - and a few pictures of historic features still re- maining on view in Paris and Edgar County. F Edgar County Courthouse, 1973, Showing New Landscaping On Courthouse Yard, Looking Northeast. Aerial View of City's West Industrial Park Area, 1971. Downtown Paris Business District, East Side of Square With Decorative Canopy, 1973. fr-'f New City Public Safety Building For Fire, Police Departments in 1971. Paris Fire Department Equipmgnt and On-Duty Shift of Firemen, 1971. r. 11 *jp JL :j Remodeled Paris Citv Hall On South Central Avenue, 1972, With Samuel Vance Park at left. Samuel Vance Park, Honoring City's Founder, On Site Of Original Paris City Hall. jU^i^y^^^/^ifr^^^S^ Edgar County Jail, North Central Avenue, Built In 1890 and Little Changed in 1973. (Right) Detail of Ornate Stonework On Edgar County Courthouse Still Sound In 1973, ■^ f5*W ^^ Paris Community YMCA and Youth Center Opened In 1972 On Madison East of Main Street Paris Community Hospital, 120-Bed Facility Opened in 1970 Financed In Part by $1 Million Local Contributions. :>uimming and Boating During Warm Summer Weekends In "New" East Lake After 1960. Edgar County Officials 1973 Edgar County Board Harry Woodyard, Chrisman, District One Mrs. Betty Helton, Brocton, District Two Max Carrington, Grandview, District Three Russell Elledge, Paris, District Four Lawrence Bishop, Paris, District Five Paul Sears, Paris, District Six and Board Chairman Harry Farris, Paris, District Seven Shirley Eldredge, County Clerk CJayton H. Sprouls, Circuit Clerk Randall Wallace, Treasurer Ben Jenness, supervisor of Assessments Karl Famham, Sheriff Dr. W. A. Bittner, Coroner Radph S. Pearman, Circuit Judge Carl A. Lund, Circuit Judge Richard Scott, Associate Judge Arthur A. Jones, State's Attorney Carl Jones, Regional School Superintendent Theron Beesor, Probation Officer Jack Leathers, County Superintendent of Highways Jack Asher, Chairman, Airport Advisory Board CUy of Paris Officials 1973 William Quinn, Mayor Wayne L. Blume, Commissioner of Accounts & Finances Dr. N. M. Sullivan, Commissioner of Public Health & Safety Harold Cartwright, Commissioner of Streets & Public Improvements L. Leon Foltz, Commissioner of Public Prop- erty Mrs. Frances Clearwater, City Clerk Edward Gillum, City Treasurer Alfred Bonaldi, City Attorney 0. M. Starbuck, aty Engineer Frederick Johnson, City Building Inspector T. J. Trogdon Jr., Chairman, City Plan Com- mission Mrs. Wayne Blume, President, Paris Library Board Mrs. Eva ainton. President, Paris Park Board Sesquicentennial Committee T. J. Trogdon, Jr., Paris, General Chairman Walter Kimble, Paris, Secretary Philip S. Foley, Paris, Treasurer Mrs. Betty Helton, Brocton, City-County Co- ordinator Harry Parrish Jr., Paris, Corresponding Secre- tary John Harris, Chrisman, Parade Marshal UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA p"ri?AND EDGAR C0UNt"Vb23-1S73 PARIS 3 0112 025396661