Category Archives: Amusements

WICS television

WICS signed on for the first time on Sept. 30, 1953, broadcasting the World Series between the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Yankees, according to Doug Quick, who has compiled a massive online history of central Illinois broadcasting. The station’s … Continue reading

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Young gentlemen at cards, 1840s (photo)

The four card players in this photo, thought to have been taken between 1840 and 1845, are believed to be, from left: Zimri Enos, an engineer, attorney and surveyor who left personal reminiscences that are important to understanding Sangamon County’s pioneer … Continue reading

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Riverton

Like many early towns, the village of Riverton’s proximity to the Sangamon River contributed to its beginnings. A ferry across the Sangamon, operated by Ezikiel Judd, was the first enterprise in the area. He later transferred the ferry to his … Continue reading

Posted in Amusements, Coal mines and mining, Communities, Early residents, Lincoln, Abraham, Local government, Mills, Railroads, Sangamon River, Schools and school districts, Sports and recreation, Transportation | Tagged , , , , , | 13 Comments

Bowling alleys

Organized bowling certainly was offered in Springfield by 1874 and perhaps even as early as the 1860s. The Greater Springfield Bowling Association web site formerly included an extensive list of Springfield-area bowling establishments over the years, with about 45 of them … Continue reading

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