New Book Honors the History of East Peoria

MT. PLEASANT, S.C. - Sept. 4, 2013 - PRLog -- The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series is East Peoria by local author Jeanette Kendall. The book displays more than 200 vintage and modern images.

East Peoria is unique with its hills and valleys, scenic bluffs and views of the Illinois River. Native Americans and early settlers were drawn here, but taming the land did not come without its hardships; the area was prone to floods. Joseph Schertz first platted what was known as Bluetown in 1864. The area’s resources attracted industry, and the town thrived. The city of East Peoria was established in 1919.

This collection of photographs provides a glimpse into the past lives of those who lived, worked and played in the community. Much like today, the East Peoria residents of yesteryear included business owners, firefighters, musicians, teachers, churchgoers, laborers and more. Other photographs illustrate the hardships people endured to pave the way for generations to come. Many locals will recognize names such as Davis, Sommerfield and Spinder, as well as the city’s former landmarks.

Highlights of East Peoria include:
•   The book features a collection of rare images, the majority of which have been donated from private collections of local residents.
•   The East Peoria Fire Department donated a large amount of photographs for the book, including some of the green Gables fire, where two firefighters lost their lives.
•   The book includes interesting characters and their stories, such as Jack Sheppard, an outdoorsman who lived in a cabin along the banks of the Illinois River.
•   Shares the history and special stories of area landmarks, such as where the giant chicken at Carl’s Bakery came from and the history of the Twistee Treat ice cream cone building.

Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at (888)-313-2665 or online.  

Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States.  Our mission is to make history accessible and meaningful through the publication of books on the heritage of America’s people and places.  Have we done a book on your town?  Visit www.arcadiapublishing.com/.