Monthly Archives: July 2026

Roselawn Memorial Park

Posted on July 18, 2026 by editor

Roselawn Memorial Park, “The Cemetery of Eternal Beauty,” was founded in 1927 by a seemingly mismatched consortium of Springfield entrepreneurs, politicians and religious leaders. The first burial at Roselawn, that of 34-year-old Martha Ellen Stevens Johnson, took place in September … Continue reading →

Posted in Business | Leave a comment

World War II draft lottery, 1940

Posted on July 9, 2026 by editor

Dale Britt of Springfield turned 24 on Oct. 29, 1940. His birthday present? His number (158) was picked first in the national military draft lottery, held the same day. Sangamon County was divided into five Selective Service districts, three in … Continue reading →

Posted in Military | Leave a comment