Honoring the rich history of rural western Illinois, and examining the problems we currently face
"Rural schools may lack big-city resources, but they have something just as powerful—strong community ties, flexibility to innovate, and educators who wear many hats to make learning meaningful." On This Episode We sit down with John Glasgow, Program Director of the Rural CTE Project (in partnership with The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools …
"Our job is to find out what the needs and barriers are around early childhood care and education… and help align goals so we’re all working on the same thing." Shannon McKee, Family & Community Engagement Specialist, Birth to Five Illinois: Region 26 On This Episode We had the privilege of speaking with Paul Larson, …
"How we define rural is very personal and why we care about it is often for very personal reasons too." On This Episode We sit down with Dr. Pamela Riney-Kehrberg, a historian whose work brings the complex and often misunderstood story of rural America to life. Dr. Riney-Kehrberg helps us unpack two chapters from the …
Continue reading "Exploring Rural Identity and History with Dr. Pamela Riney-Kehrberg"
“Once upon a time, Chicago and downstate belonged to the same economy…Factories downstate made things Chicago needed. That’s gone away. What’s replaced it in Chicago is the global economy. What economic vitality there is in Illinois is in Chicago. The economic fortunes of Chicago and downstate are diverging.” Richard C. Longworth, "Caught in the Middle: …
Continue reading "Illinois: A State Apart – Episode #4 – The State of Chicago (1925)"
WARREN COUNTY Population: 16,444 (2023 estimate)Warren County, like many rural areas in Illinois, has experienced population decline over recent decades. Since 2000, the county's population has decreased by approximately 14.2%, reflecting the broader challenges faced by rural communities across the state. Key Facts Named For: General Joseph Warren, a hero of the Revolutionary War who …
Continue reading "History of all 16 Counties: #16 Warren County"
SCOTT COUNTY Population: 4,989 (2023 estimate)Scott County, one of Illinois' smallest counties by population. Like other small communities, it has experienced population decline, with a decrease of approximately 14% since 2000. Despite these challenges, Scott County holds a rich history and a close-knit community that proudly celebrates its rural heritage. Key Facts Named For: Scott …
Continue reading "History of all 16 Counties: #15 Scott County"
SCHUYLER COUNTY Population: 6,902 (2020 census) Key Facts Named For: Philip Schuyler, a Revolutionary War general and U.S. senator. Historical Significance: Known for its early settlement patterns, the county is steeped in pioneer history and the expansion of Illinois during the 19th century. Natural Beauty: The Illinois River forms the eastern boundary, offering scenic and …
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PIKE COUNTY Population: 15,661 (2023 estimate)Pike County's population reflects the broader trends of rural Illinois, with a decline of about 15% since 2000. Key Facts Agricultural Roots: Known as the "Whitetail Deer Capital of the World," Pike County is also home to extensive farmland and hunting preserves. Named For: Zebulon Pike, explorer of the Louisiana …
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"In Forgottonia, political concerns run deep and personal. They’re about survival, identity, and fairness. Whether it’s fixing roads, supporting farmers, or amplifying rural voices, these issues remind us why local perspectives matter in national debates." Objectives In this episode, we explore the unprecedented political shift in western Illinois, a region known as Forgottonia, where all …
Continue reading "Election Results in Forgottonia: Trump’s Unprecedented Appeal"
"Title IX wasn't just about athletics, it was about education. At that time, we had only a few female leaders. We needed a level playing field, everyone needed a fair shake." Robbi Ball Rhonda Garrett and Robbi Ball talk to CHS student athletes Kayleigh Harr (class of '24) and Kacie White (class of '27) On …
The Forgottonia Project 