1913, Marion, Illinois “Opportunity City”

The Marion Development Co. was formed in 1913 by progressive Marion Business and professional men, and was the community’s Chamber of Commerce of that day. It continued until July, 1916 when World War I which had enveloped Europe was threatening to involve the United States, and preparedness in this country was taking first place in demands upon the public’s thinking and investment capital. Continue reading

1954, Improvements for Marion and Vicinity Planned

Over Two Million Dollars in Improvements For Marion and Vicinity Planned For 1954

Over two million dollars will be spent in Marion and vicinity during this year on new construction and the purchase of right–of-way for relocating of State Highway 13, according to figures compiled this week by the Marion Daily Republican. Continue reading

Marion in 1861

By the start of the War Between the States, Marion was an extremely small town compared to what it is today.

The Illinois General Assembly provided Marion a town charter in 1851. Earlier, the legislature provided for a committee to plat out a county seat at the same time Williamson County was separated from Franklin County. Continue reading