MARSHALL, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The Clark County Development Organization along with the Clark County Board has officially kicked off the Clark County’s 200th birthday, with events planned all year long.
Clark County was formed in 1819 out of Crawford County.
At the time of its formation, Clark County included about a third of Illinois, and extended as far north as the present state of Wisconsin.
In 1821 the northern part of Clark County became part of the newly created Pike County on January 31, and the newly created Fayette County took the western part of Clark County on February 14.
Edgar County was created from the northern part of Clark County on January 3, 1823.
The creation of Coles County occupied additional land from western Clark County, effective December 25, 1830.
The boundaries of Clark County have been unchanged since.
Clark County was named for George Rogers Clark (older brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition), an officer of the army of Virginia that captured the Northwest Territory from the British during the Revolutionary War.
A large group of citizens have been meeting to plan many events to commemorate this milestone.
Some events in April and May include:
- The Smithsonian Institution presents a Museum on Main Street exhibit featuring “Crossroads: Change in Rural America” at Marshall Public Library March 24th through May 3rd at 612 Archer Avenue in Marshall, IL. Group guided tours will be available. For a guided tour, reservations will be necessary. Please call 217-826-2535 to make an appointment or visit www.marshallillibrary.com
- April– Gaslight Art Colony featuring student’s art work “Past, Present and Future- Clark County” for all students through the county
- April 18, 2019– Casey Chamber Annual Dinner- Richards Farm- “Cheers to 200 Years”
- Memorial Day – 4th of July– cemeteries will be marked with information about specific headstones. The public is encouraged to visit the 40+ cemeteries in the county
To get involved, contact any Chambers of Commerce in Clark County.
Make some time in 2019 to help celebrate Clark County’s 200th birthday!
Our county is special, the place we call home is worth celebrating!
