Honoring the rich history of rural western Illinois, and examining the problems we currently face
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 …
Continue reading "History of all 16 Counties: #14 Schuyler County"
"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 …
"Vulnerable populations were already feeling the pressure” in an economy that saw a shrinking of middle-wage jobs... the middle class has begun to disappear, and fewer workers are able to meet their needs & the needs of their families with wages earned from 40 hours of work each week." -Illinois Future of Work Task Force, …
Continue reading "Forgottonia at Work: Future Trends and Community Impact"
"Since 2005, the U.S. has lost more than ¼ of its newspapers and is on track to lose ⅓ by 2025." ON THIS EPISODE On this episode we are pleased to share some interview sound bites from students in our current events class at Cuba H.S. Their work is featured on our inaugural monthly newsletter …
Continue reading "Forgottonia Gazette: Rural Youth Reporting, Issue #1 (Podcast Edition)"
"More & more people are “ravenous for admiration” and have “little or no commitment to others... people have “illusions about their importance & fail to recognize their own shortcomings?” Christopher Lasch, The Culture of Narcissism, 1978 ON THIS EPISODE We dive deep into research about self-absorption and its impact on community, inspired by Dr. John …
"I thought about leaving and then life happened and I stayed and I'm glad I did. I raised my kids here. I still teach here and I wouldn't want it any other way." Nicole Thum Mrs. Nicole Thum shows Cooper and Sam a picture of her elementary class at the Smithfield Red Brick School ON …
"We need to become informed activists. This Forgottonia movement lasted only a short time. That won't work. It will take years to implement change and we must be willing to expend that." Bill Edley ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School students Cadie & Courtney Churchill continue …
The Forgottonia Project 