Cycling Into History June 26, 2021
Mattoon Public Library
Mattoon Public Library's Local History Center first bicycle ride to discover Mattoon’s old history occurred on June 26, 2021 in Mattoon, Illinois. The Local History Center created the 5 mile route visiting buildings which traced a number buildings which marked Mattoon's growth from the 1800s through present day. Chris Suerdieck, the Historian and founder of the Local History Center, provided the history and details along the tour. 33 cyclists joined in this inaugural ride dedicated to the History of Mattoon.
More information can be seen at Mattoon Public Library Local History Center located at 1600 Charleston, IL 61938.
On the web at https://mattoonlibrary.org/contact/ and email info@mattoonlibrary.org
Gathering of cyclists at Mattoon Public Library
Below: Bike turn on to Western Avenue
Below Two views: Custer Hotel and DeBuhr Feed & Seed
Below: DeBuhr Feed & Seed in background. This is one of Mattoon's oldest businesses, established in 1914 and remains family owned.
Above: Custer Hotel, early hotel-built to accommodate railroad workers.
Below: Heading West
Below: S. R. Miller broom corn warehouse, typical buildings along railroad tracks for easy shipping.
Below: O'Connor Bills, Baker of Sally Ann Breads
Above: Russell's Grocery, Iconic Neighborhood Grocery Store
Below: Location of the Illinois Central Railroad Round House and shops.
Lytle Park Pavilion, Park opened in 1912
Little My Store: Grocery since 1919.
Shaded Streets of Mattoon, sharing stories and cycling-history buffs with their families!
Below: Mattoon Mausoleum, 1913, in Dodge Grove Cemetery.
Immaculate Conception Church. First organized congregation in Mattoon; church built in 1885.
Cruising along with support of Mattoon Police.
Below: Winner of the Cycling Into History Gift Certificate sponsored by Bike and Hike of Charleston, IL
Last Stop under the Mattoon Water tower and near the Illinois Central Train Station. Chris Suerdieck discussing the 'subway' containing the train station connecting Chicago and New Orleans.
One of the remaining brick streets of Mattoon, Illinois
Below Map of the ride. Use +/- as Map is scalable; click on "i" for Point of Interest description.
On the web at https://mattoonlibrary.org/contact/ and email info@mattoonlibrary.org
