Bond County Bicentennial
1817 - 2017
News & Announcements
This is the place to find recent news, publicity, and announcements of completed and upcoming Bicentennial Planning Committee activities and functions.
Who We Are
The Bicentennial Planning Committee is made up of civic minded Bond County citizens with a keen interest in both the history and future of our state and local communities.
The core group was assembled in Summer 2016 to begin the early stages of planning for 2017; however, there are many opportunities to volunteer and participate on subcommittees that will focus on various 2017 activities.
Bond County residents young and old, and from all walks of life, are encouraged to take part in the organization and preparation for the historic events of 2017.
News & Press
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Op-Ed NEWSBYTE & PHOTOS: Bond County Celebrates Its Bicentennial With Style - Greenville Advocate
July 6, 2017
Essay by Dave Bell, Advocate Staff Writer
Rockin’ Bond’s Bicentennial, front page photo by Dave Bell
Bond County Bicentennial Photo Collage, back page
Find many more photos at Greenville Advocate’s SmugMug Gallery
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NEWSBYTES & PHOTOS: Bond County Bicentennial / Fourth Fest Celebration Very Successful - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
July 5, 2017
Bicentennial Day One Wrap (Photos, News, Sound bytes) at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
Bicentennial Opening Ceremony (Sound Bytes) at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
Bicentennial Review at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
Bicentennial Parade PHOTOS at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
MORE IMAGES from Bond County Bicentennial at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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Owl Creek Radio features Bond County Bicentennial / 4th of July Independence Day Episode
July 2, 2017
Tune in to our special Bond Co. Bicentennial, 4th of July, Independence Day Episode of “Creekside with Don and Jan”. Great Weekend + Great People + Great Event = Great Fodder for a Podcast.
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NEWSBYTE: Special Section Covers Pages 9-16 - Greenville Advocate
June 29, 2017
Read this special commemorative section full of vintage photos, themed articles, and little known Bond County history in the June 29, 2017 issue of the Greenville Advocate
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NEWSBYTE: Courthouse Tours - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
June 29, 2017
From 1:30 to 3 p.m. Sunday, tours of the Bond County Courthouse will be given during Sunday’s bicentennial celebration. They are free.
Guided tours will begins at the Veterans’ Memorial on the west side of the courthouse. The next stop is the Civil War monument on the southeast part of the courthouse lawn.
Tourists will then enter the historic courthouse, visiting the first floor, and then will go to the second floor courtroom. In the courtroom, Taylor Pensoneau, an author and historian, will talk briefly about the Shelton gang trial held in Bond County. -
NEWSBYTE: Head East & Kenny Hampton Connection - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
June 28, 2017
The rock band Head East will perform Saturday night in downtown Greenville for the Bond County Bicentennial. Roger Boyd, a native of Carlyle, is the leader of the group. He said the band is excited to be playing in Greenville and he remembered a couple of connections to the city.
Greenville resident Kenny Hampton wrote a song that Head East recorded on their “US 1” album. Boyd said the group hasn’t played that song in a long time but will attempt to learn it before the show in Greenville. Boyd also said the group, prior to becoming Head East, played a show at the Winchester Cathedral teen center in Greenville.
At one time, Hampton was part of a music duo in St. Louis with Mark Boatman. They knew Roger Boyd. Hampton said he had been performing the song as a solo act when the man who was producing a demo for Head East heard the song and wanted it for the album.Hear sound bytes from Boyd and Hampton at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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SOUNDBYTE: WGEL’s Jeff Leidel Interviews Jim Peterik - MixCloud
June 23, 2017
Jeff Leidel from WGEL Radio spoke with legendary songwriter Jim Peterik today June 23, 2017 from the Ides of March about their upcoming show in Greenville for the Bond County Bicentennial. Peterik was the founder of the band Survivor, wrote many of their monster hits, and wrote many hits for .38 Special as well. His hit catalog will be performed live on stage on July 2 at the Bicentennial celebration.
Listen to the 15 minute interview by RockZone Legends at MixCloud
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SOUNDBYTE: WGEL’s Jeff Leidel Interviews Roger Boyd - MixCloud
June 23, 2017
Jeff Leidel from WGEL Radio (wgel.com) interviews Roger Boyd from Head East. Roger talks about the band’s early days and their upcoming show in Greenville, Illinois for the Bond County Bicentennial.
Listen to the 19 minute interview by RockZone Legends at MixCloud
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NEWSBYTE: Bond County Bicentennial Parade - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
June 19, 2017
As part of the Bond County Bicentennial celebration, a parade will be held, beginning at 3 pm on Sunday, July 2nd.
The parade will feature the legendary Oscar Meyer Weinermobile and the Planters Peanut Peanutmobile. Louie and the Blues Crew make a return appearance, as does Ronald McDonald and Shriner marching units. Many local floats will also be included in the parade.
The parade will line up on College Avenue, east of Elm Street starting at 2 pm. Parade participants should line up on College Avenue, coming from Idler Lane. The parade will wind through downtown Greenville and proceed in front of the main stage at the intersection of Second and Main. Bicentennial parade chairman Allan Davis said there is no fee to participate in the parade, but everyone is encouraged to pre-register. Registration forms can be found on the Bond County Bicentennial web site.
Following the parade, the Civil War Regiment Band will perform on the Courthouse lawn, followed by the Greenville Municipal Band at 5pm. The Ides of March, featuring legendary songwriter Jim Peterik, will perform on the Bradford National Bank Main Stage at 6:30pm, followed by the United States Air Force Band of Mid-America who will perform leading into a spectacular fireworks display over downtown Greenville, sponsored by the Bond County Fourth Fest. The Brother Jefferson Blues Band will take the main stage after the fireworks to close out the Bicentennial celebration.
For more information, contact Davis at 618-267-9110 or by email bond911@sbcglobal.net. -
SOUNDBYTE: Bond County Bicentennial Less Than One Month Away - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
June 17, 2017
The big celebration for the Bond County Bicentennial is less than a month away. Events will take place Saturday and Sunday, July 1 and 2 in downtown Greenville.
Bicentennial Committee Chairman John Coleman said over 80 sponsors are making the upcoming celebration possible. He said the committee has been very busy planning events, from live music to the parade. He said there are a lot of logistics to take care of.Read More and Hear sound bytes from Event Chairman John Coleman at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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NEWSBYTE: Bicentennial Music Jam - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
June 14, 2017
If you are from Bond County and want to perform music at the Bicentennial celebration, you’ll have the chance.
Randy Alderman, music coordinator for the bicentennial, said after Head East finishes their set on Saturday night, July 1, a “Bond County Jam” will be held on the main stage. Any local musicians can come up and play or sing, with Swamp Weiss and the Swamp Daddies backing them up.
You can visit the Bicentennial website or Facebook page to find a form to fill out to reserve a spot.
The bicentennial museum will be open on the first floor of the former Masonic Building in downtown Greenville from 4 to 9 p.m. July 1 and noon to 9 p.m. July 2. There will also be a pre-celebration open house from 4 to 9 p.m. on June 30. The museum is open to everyone and admission is free. -
NEWSBYTE: Bicentennial Museum Looking For Artifacts to Display - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
June 12, 2017
The Bond County Bicentennial Committee is looking for artifacts to display in a special temporary museum exhibit during bicentennial weekend July 1 and 2. The display will highlight county schools, mines, industries, pictures of communities and events from the past.
Cindy Tischhauser, member of the committee, said unique items or pictures of historical interest are being requested for loan. The goal is to show the diversity of Bond County to visitors at the celebration. Tischhauser said pictures of Myatt, Hubbard, Blue Mound and Oak Grove schools are especially needed.
Anyone willing to loan an artifact or picture can contact Tischhauser at 618-304-5519 or e-mail her at findingfamily66@yahoo.com.
The bicentennial museum will be open on the first floor of the former Masonic Building in downtown Greenville from 4 to 9 p.m. July 1 and noon to 9 p.m. July 2. There will also be a pre-celebration open house from 4 to 9 p.m. on June 30. The museum is open to everyone and admission is free. -
NEWSBYTE: Lineup of Bicentennial Entertainment Completed - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
May 12, 2017
The lineup of entertainment for the Bond County Bicentennial celebration and Fourth Fest has been completed. The event will take place Saturday and Sunday, July 1 and 2, in downtown Greenville.
It was previously announced that Head East will perform on Saturday night and the Ides of March with Jim Peterik will play on Sunday night. On July 1st, the music begins at 5 p.m. with Swamp Weiss and the Swamp Daddies performing and Head East will be on stage from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Randy Alderman, coordinator of music for the Bicentennial Committee, said after the Head East concert, there will be an open mic Bond County jam. Bond County talent will have to sign up to participate and Alderman reported more information about that will be forthcoming.
On July 2, the Ides of March will play from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The United States Air Force Band of Mid-America will follow, performing before and during the fireworks. The fireworks are being presented by the Bond County Fourth Fest Committee.
After the fireworks, the Brother Jefferson Band, featuring Jeff Chapman from Greenville, will play.
All concerts are free. The main stage will be set up at the intersection of Second and Main Streets, facing the courthouse. -
NEWSBYTE: Parade a Part of Bond County Bicentennial/Fourth Fest Celebration this Summer - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
May 11, 2017
A parade will be part of the Bond County Bicentennial/Fourth Fest celebration in Greenville this summer.
Alan Davis, parade coordinator, said the parade will be at 3 PM on Sunday, July 2. The parade will line up along College Avenue and go by the Greenville Square, just like the Greenville Bicentennial parade. Parade participants are asked to sign up in advance. For more, call 618-267-9110.
Davis said this is a county parade and organizers would like to have representatives from all towns and villages in the county.
The weekend celebration begins on Saturday, July 1 and extends through July 2. Free entertainment will be presented throughout the celebration, which will also feature a fireworks display on Sunday night.Hear sound bytes from Allan Davis, parade coordinator, at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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PRESS RELEASE: EconoLodge of Greenville Founder Level Sponsor
April 28, 2017
The Bond County Bicentennial is pleased to announce that EconoLodge of Greenville is our new Founder Level Sponsor!
EconoLodge of Greenville has consistently been a prestigious Gold Award winner, ranking them as one of the top 10% EconoLodge hotels in the United States!Check out their website to see their great amenities, such as free breakfast, indoor pool, and exercise room. In Photo: Bicentennial Committee members Cindy Tischhauser, Allan Davis, and John Coleman present EconoLodge owner Amrish Patel with his sponsor certificate.
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NEWSBYTE: WGEL A Bicentennial Sponsor - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
April 9, 2017
WGEL has partnered with the Bond County Bicentennial as a Founder Level Sponsor. [The radio station] will be providing promotional assistance for the upcoming Bicentennial weekend celebration on Saturday and Sunday, July 1 and 2 in Greenville.
Bicentennial Committee Chairman John Coleman said, “We’re thrilled to have WGEL partner with the Bond County Bicentennial to help bring entertainment to the celebration.”
WGEL’s Ryan Mifflin will be the primary on stage announcer for the activities around the courthouse square.Read More about WGEL’s sponsorship and see a photo at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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PRESS RELEASE: Donnewald Distributing Presents Check to Bond County Bicentennial
March 23, 2017
Donnewald Distributing of Greenville has become the newest Premier Sponsor for the Bond County Bicentennial. At a gathering in Donnewald’s offices at the Howard M. Wolf Business Park Wednesday morning, company President Mike Donnewald presented a check for $5,000.00 to committee Chairman John Coleman.
“We’re glad to do what we can to help out a great local event,” said Donnewald. “Having Donnewald Distributing as a Premier Sponsor means a lot to us. We’re proud to have the support of their company and employees behind us,” stated Coleman.
Donnewald Distributing started in 1965 to distribute Budweiser and other Anheuser-Busch products in Southern Illinois. In 2010 they opened their current facility in Greenville, where they distribute beers, wine, sodas, water, and other non-alcoholic drink to 23 counties in Central and Southern Illinois.
The Bond County Bicentennial Committee was formed by the Bond County Historical Society to plan events for this year. The main Bicentennial celebration will take place July 1 and 2 around the Bond County Courthouse Square in downtown Greenville. Music concerts, a parade, courthouse tours, and a family fun area are planned for that weekend. A Sunday fireworks finale and food and vendor area is also being planned that weekend by the Bond Fourth Fest Committee.
In Photo: Mike Donnewald of Donnewald Distributing (far left) presents a $5,000 check to Bond County Bicentennial Committee Chairman John Coleman (second from left). Also present are committee member Allan Davis (second from right) and Donnewald Distributing’s Vice-President, Bob Donnewald (far right).
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Resolution Commemorating the 200th Anniverary of the Establishment of Bond County, Illinois
March 17, 2017
We are pleased to finally bring you the full text of the proclamation read at the January 5, 2017 Bicentennial Courthouse Program by Bond County State’s Attorney Chris Bauer.
The elegantly composed proclamation finishes, “NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the members of the Bond County Board of Commissioners that commencing on this date, January 5th, 2017, the 200th anniversary of the creation of this County, there shall be a year-long bicentennial celebration honoring the people, institutions and the rich history of Bond County, Illinois.” The resolution of the proclamation was approved unanimously that same evening.
Many thanks to Mr Bauer for sharing this document with us for this archives page. -
NEWSBYTE: Ides Of March At Bicentennial - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
March 6, 2017
Last week, the Bond County Bicentennial Committee announced that Head East would be performing a free, outdoor concert the night of Saturday, July 1.
Now the committee has announced the headlining act for the night of Sunday, July 2.
It is Ides of March featuring Jim Peterik. Ides of March is from the Chicago area, having been in Berwyn in the fall of 1964. The original four members are still with the band. They include Peterik, Bob Bergland, Larry Millas and Mike Borch.
Peterik said the band is looking forward to being in Bond County. He said the band will bring it’s “A-game”, playing the band’s familiar hits and new songs, as well as other hit songs that Peterick wrote for other bands.
The band’s free, two-hour concert in Greenville is July 2.Hear a sound byte from Jim Peterik of the Ides Of March at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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PRESS RELEASE: The Ides of March Featuring Jim Peterik to Headline Day Two of the Bond County Bicentennial
March 5, 2017
The Ides of March, featuring Jim Peterik, one of the most successful song writers of the 1980s, will headline day two of the Bond County Bicentennial Sunday, July 2, 2017 in downtown Greenville, on the Bradford National Bank Main Stage.
Bicentennial entertainment chairman Randy Alderman said, “While the names may be foreign to some, the songs certainly are not. Jim Peterik, who formed the Ides of March way back when, took a little break in the 1980s to form Survivor, co-writing and performing many of their smash hits, including the 1982 Grammy winning Eye of the Tiger, as well as penning many hits for .38 Special and for other bands such as Sammy Hagar and The Beach Boys. The two hour Ides of March set will be familiar music, performed in part by the guy who wrote the songs.” He added, “This band, which features the original four members, and the music they perform, will certainly be a highlight of the year for those attending this free concert.”
John Coleman, Bicentennial Chairman, said, “It’s an honor to have this legendary band perform for our Bicentennial celebration. Their high-energy show filled with songs we all know and love will delight and entertain everyone.”
This isn’t a sedate “oldies” act-much the opposite actually. In concert, the Ides of March remain a vital, powerhouse rock and roll band whose typical 90-minute concert usually lasts two hours, and the encores are always the strongest songs of the night. The secret of the band’s longevity might rest in the fact that they all have remained best friends throughout the years, with not a hint of ego-trip to be found. This is especially unique because singer Jim Peterik rose to the top of the heap with his band Survivor (Eye Of The Tiger, The Search is Over, High on You) during the 1980s. Jim also co-wrote the multi-platinum hits for Southern favorites .38 Special (Hold On Loosely, Fantasy Girl, Rockin’ Into the Night). When Survivor ran its course, Jim returned “home” to the Ides of March, and the band never looked back. While many “vintage” groups supplement their sets playing “cover versions” of the hits of others, the Ides celebrate Jim’s “extracurricular” hits like they were “homegrown”, which they, in some respects, are.
The two-day Bond County Bicentennial celebration in downtown Greenville will be held July 1 and 2, 2017. It was previously announced that classic rockers Head East will headline day one of the celebration. Coleman added, “In addition to the headlining acts, The Bond County Bicentennial will feature a wide variety of musical entertainment throughout the weekend. Plus, the Family Fun Area returns, compliments of First National Bank, and a large parade is in the works.”
For more information on the Bond County Bicentennial sponsorship opportunities, and for a history of the County, visit, http://www.bondcountyhistorical.org, and follow the day-to-day announcements on the Bond County Bicentennial Facebook page.
Ides of March History...
On October 16th, 1964; a basement in Berwyn, Illinois played host to four schoolboys, guitars, drums, and their dreams. From that meeting sprang platinum hits, Grammy awards, and a common bond that has lasted ever since. The IDES OF MARCH mark a rare milestone in any partnership, let alone rock and roll; they have remained together, with all the original members intact for fifty years.
Best remembered for their 1970 smash “Vehicle”, the IDES (or their lead singer and songwriter Jim Peterik) have had hit records in each of the decades since that humble beginning. From the Brit-meets-Chicago Soul of their 1966 debut “You Wouldn’t Listen” to the rousing sports anthem “Finally Next Year” that cheered the Cubs throughout their red-hot 2003 season, the IDES have combined shimmering vocal harmonies with their trademark driving brass section to forge a sound that is timeless and unforgettable.
At their 50th year together, the accomplishments and accolades continue to accumulate. The band was honored by their hometown of Berwyn, Illinois by declaring the street running in front of their High School “Ides Of March Way”. The Ides have sung their thrilling rendition of our National Anthem for The Chicago Cubs, Bears, Bulls, Fire and White Sox with over 35 visits to Comiskey Park/US Cellular field. (The Ides sang the last home game at the “old” Comiskey Park, and the first night game at the “new” one!).
The Ides tunes have never left the airwaves on classic rock and oldies radio, but with the rise of music and dance competition TV shows, “Vehicle” has found a brand new audience-most notably on “American Idol” where Bo Bice rode the song to the final show, which led to his version earning the song another Platinum Award to accompany the original. You can also hear “Vehicle” regularly on commercial soundtracks, and it is in regular rotation on the playlists all of the nightly talk shows’ house bands.
The Ides “Vehicle” remains in overdrive, with no signs of slowing down. The band is hotter than ever, thrilling audiences in every city they visit. They are true gentlemen, taking the time to greet every fan who wants a picture or autograph after the show, leaving good vibes in their wake. At most every show, tales are heard of folks driving hundreds of miles just to attend their concerts. They say they don’t make ‘em like they used to, and that is certainly true for the Ides, who were “made” in a different time, but choose not to mellow with age, but forge ahead on a path of progress. You’ll see as many Gen-X and Gen-Y denizens rocking and dancing at an Ides show as Baby Boomers. Great music and great performance have no expiration or “sell-by” date. The Vehicle rolls on! -
PRESS RELEASE: Big Announcement!
February 24, 2017
The legendary classic rock band Head East will headline day one of the Bond County Bicentennial on Saturday, July 1, 2017 on the Bradford National Bank Main Stage.
Head East has long set the standard for authentic, full-vocal, goodtime rock harmonies that few bands can equal. Their high-energy shows are filled with superb vocals, flashy guitar work and memorable keyboard melodies that continue to rock audiences of all ages. Their signature song, “THERE’S NEVER BEEN ANY REASON (Save My Life)” has long-been considered by many radio stations across the country as “The Rock & Roll National Anthem.” For more than four decades the band has brought classic rock to countless audiences all across North America.
Bicentennial entertainment chair Randy Alderman said, “We are excited that Head East will provide the headlining music on day one of the Bond County Bicentennial. The band still tours extensively and their sound and show will delight young and old alike.”
John Coleman, Chairman of the two-day Bicentennial event, said, “This is the first of several announcements we will be making. Our committee has worked really hard to put together memorable entertainment for our county celebration.”
According to founding member and keyboardist Roger Boyd, Head East will continue to bring their brand of dance and shout, good-time rock and roll to audiences of all ages for many years to come. “As long as I can lift my synthesizer over my head and the audience goes wild, we’ll keep rockin’ on!”
Their music has been featured in the cult movie classic Dazed and Confused, as well as Sahara and The Education of Charlie Banks, and Emmy award winning TV shows Friday Night Lights and That 70s Show. Their newest release (April, 2013), Raise A Little Hell, contains several Head East classic party rockers, including their monumental classic “There’s Never Been Any Reason (Save My Life),” along with new, soon-to-be HE classics, that capture all of the excitement, energy and magic of their live shows.
Head East is a 5-piece band consisting of Roger Boyd (keyboards & vocals), Greg Manahan (bass, lead guitar & vocals), Glen Bridger (lead guitar & vocals), Eddy Jones (drums & vocals), and Darren Walker (lead vocals & bass). They have always been one of the friendliest, most approachable, professional bands in rock and roll who are willing to make themselves available at all times for interviews and “meet and greets”.
Head East maintains a close bond with their loyal fans through their official website, YouTube channel, Facebook and Twitter pages, and their official newsletter. The band is popular throughout the world and regularly receives fan correspondence from many nations and from across the United States. -
NEWSBYTE: FNB Patriot Level Sponsor Of Bicentennial - Greenville Advocate & WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
January 26, 2017
The First National Bank has signed on as a Patriot level sponsor of Bond County’s bicentennial celebration. Formed in 1817, the county is a year older than the State of Illinois. Founded in 1865, The First National Bank is one of the oldest financial institutions in Illinois.
Pat Kious, First National Bank Vice President recently presented a check for $1,000 to John S. Coleman, Bond County Bicentennial Chairman, and Howard Elmore, Bond County Board of Supervisors Chairman. Kious said, “As a community bank FNB was happy to support Greenville during its bicentennial and we’re now thrilled to partner with Bond County for its 200th birthday.”
Kious noted that this year’s celebration will offer a chance to honor all of the county’s communities and the unique histories of each. “With locations in Greenville and Mulberry Grove, The First National Bank is proud to serve Bond County,” Kious said.
Along with their sponsorship, FNB will be helping coordinate the family fun area at the Bicentennial celebration on July 2.
FNB’s other locations are in Vandalia, Ramsey and Patoka. -
NEWSBYTE: BNB Sponsors County Bicentennial at Premier Level - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
January 10, 2017
As Bradford National Bank celebrates its 150th anniversary, they are once again stepping forward as the Premier Level sponsor for the Bond County Bicentennial. In 2015, the bank was the platinum level sponsor for the Greenville Bicentennial. The signature sponsorship was announced by Bradford National Bank president & CEO Doug Stroud.
Stroud said, “Bradford National Bank is pleased to step forward and provide funding and support for the Bond County Bicentennial. As a community bank who has been serving the county for 150 years, we felt it was appropriate for us to support this upcoming historic event in Bond County.”...
The bank presented their sponsorship check to Bicentennial chairman John Coleman, Bond County Board chairman Howard Elmore, and Bicentennial committee member Allan Davis. Coleman said, “Bradford National Bank is celebrating their 150th anniversary this year, making them the oldest bank in Bond County. We’re proud to have a long-time member of the community as a partner in the Bicentennial.”
Elmore said, “Bradford National Bank has a long history of supporting all of the communities that make up Bond County and we are excited to partner with them for our Bicentennial celebration.”... -
NEWSBYTE: Celebrating 200 Years: Bond County Begins Its Bicentennial - Greenville Advocate
January 10, 2017
Story by Advocate staff writer Emily Lucia, illustrated by 7 captioned photographs.
On January 4, 1817, Bond County was born. On January 5, 2017, the Bond County Board of Trustees with help from Bond County Historical Society, Hill’s Fort Society and the Bond County Bicentennial Committee officially started the celebrations for Bond County’s 200th birthday.
John Coleman, Bicentennial chairman, opened up the celebration which took place at the Bond County Courthouse in the courtroom. Coleman welcomed guests as well as virtual guests, using Facebook’s livestream feature to stream the festivities to viewers at home.
Howard Elmore, Bond County board chairman, took the reins following the prayer and Pledge of Allegiance. A resolution was posed to Elmore and the board by Bond County State’s Attorney Chris Bauer. “Mr Chairman, for your consideration, a resolution commemorating the 200th anniversary of the establishment of Bond County, Illinois,” Bauer read. “Whereas the county of Bond in the Territory of Illinois was established as part of a legislation action by representatives of the Illinois Territory...” The county board passed the resolution unaminously.
Coleman then recognized all county officials, both past and present, reading off their names and asking them to stand to be thanked for their service to the county.
Next, a history of the county was presented by Coleman, Judge John Knight, and Bond County Historical Society President Kevin Kaegy.
“Bond County was named for Shadrach Bond, who served as a representative for the Illinois Territory in the U.S. Congress and was also the newly formed state’s first governor in 1818,” Coleman explained. Bond County was one of the original 11 counties in the territory, which would become a state in 1818. The county was much larger than it is today, stretching 24 miles wide from east to west and well over 600 miles long from north to south. It included parts of Vandalia as well as Lake Superior to the north. Coleman explained that Shadrach Bond had been a farmer, as well as a politician and a veteran of the War of 1812. He lived near Kaskaskia.
Judge Knight went on to explain the early courts of the county. “The first court session was held in the courthouse, which stood where the current one stands today, on May 30, 1817,” said Judge Knight. [Transcriber’s note: The first circuit court session was actually held at Hill’s Station/Fort, the first location of Bond County government. Judge Knight’s presentation had this fact correct while the Advocate article misinterpreted the timeline. Court moved to Perrysville in 1818, and in 1821 moved to Greenville.] The hand written records from that court session are still in good condition and hang framed on the wall just outside of the courtroom. These were displayed with several other artifacts at the celebration. Judge Knight also explained that the current courthouse is the third version of the courthouse, having been last fully renovated in the 1970s. The courtroom once occupied the full second floor. The moldings around the windows remain the only original part of the courtroom. It was also noted that some of the original furniture is still in existence as well.
Kaegy spoke after Judge Knight to tell the history of Hill’s Fort. “Hill’s Fort was one of three forts in what is the current county,” Kaegy said. “There was Jones’s Fort and Lindley Fort, as well,” Kaegy further explained that the Battle of Hill’s Fort took place on September 9, 1814, when a group of Native Americans ambushed the Fort, killing [Territorial] Rangers William Grotts, John Journey, William Pruitt, and Robert Lynn.
Coleman closed out the evening highlighting some of the artifacts that were present. “One of the artifacts we have here is a ledger from 1818,” Coleman said. “The first election took place in 1818 to determine the delegates that were going to go to the State Constitutional Convention in Kaskaskia. This is the first voter role, which shows each voter and how they voted in that election.”
The history of Bond County is a long and rich story. It is in no way brief and holds true to the many people who have brought the county to where it is today. From hardships to joyous occasions, the county has been about its people who constantly work hard to advance the county forward, yet hold true to the values that founded the county.
There will be many opportunities throughout 2017 to help celebrate Bond County’s founding, including a celebration on the courthouse lawn on July 2, complete with fireworks. Any additional information pertaining to Bond County Bicentennial events can be found on the Bicentennial Committee’s Facebook page or on their website.View photos from the event at The Greenville Advocate’s SmugMug gallery archive
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PHOTOS: Bond County Bicentennial Kick-Off - Greenville Chamber of Commerce Sun Newsletter
January 6, 2017
Follow the Greenville, Illinois Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Office on Facebook
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NEWSBYTE: County Bicentennial Program - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
January 6, 2017
About 65 citizens nearly packed the courtroom at the Bond County Courthouse Thursday night for the kick-off program of the county’s bicentennial. The county board actually held a meeting during the program, approving a proclamation. Bond County State’s Attorney Chris Bauer read the proclamation.
During the program, county officials, from the present and past, were introduced. John Coleman, chairman of the Bicentennial Committee, talked about the Illinois territory and Shadrach Bond, namesake of the county. Circuit Court Judge John Knight spoke about the early courts of Bond County and the current courtroom facilities, and Kevin Kaegy told the story about the battle at Hill’s Fort.
Leading the Pledge of Allegiance were Territorial Rangers Bill Johnson, Eric Reelitz and Jim DeGroff. The Benjamin Mills Chapter of the DAR served refreshments. -
Owl Creek Gazette and Radio feature Bond County Bicentennial Series
January 5, 2017
The Owl Creek Gazette kicks off their 12 issue series of the history of Bond Co. with an installment from Bill Johnson, and plans for future articles to be written in the OCG by Randy Alderman, John Goldsmith, and others! The January 1st OCG podcast, “Creekside with Don & Jan” provides a bit of a preview of the article.
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NEWSBYTE: Special Historical Program to Kick Off County Bicentennial - WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
January 3, 2017
A special program to kick off the bicentennial year of Bond County will take place Thursday at the Bond County Courthouse.
John Coleman, Kevin Kaegy and Circuit Judge John Knight will speak at the event which begins at 7 p.m. in the courtroom.
Coleman, chairman of the Bicentennial Committee, said the event will be a historical evening, honoring elected officials, sharing local history, and showing off some unique local artifacts...Read More and Hear Sound Bites about the Bicentennial Kick-Off at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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PRESS RELEASE: Bond County Bicentennial Kick-Off Event January 5 at Courthouse
December 28, 2016
The Bond County Historical Society’s Bicentennial Committee will hold its first event of the County’s Bicentennial year at 7:00pm January 5, at the Bond County Courthouse. Committee Chairman John Coleman announced that the special historical program will take place in the courtroom and will feature presentations by Kevin Kaegy and Judge John Knight. The Bond County Board will also meet to read a special resolution commemorating the historic milestone that night. The event is free and open to the public. The Benjamin Mills Chapter of the DAR will provide refreshments for guests.
“It’s going to be a very memorable night with lots of stories about important people and events from the County’s history,” said Chairman Coleman. “We celebrated Greenville’s Bicentennial in 2015, now it’s Bond County’s turn.” Coleman also explained that the event will be streamed live on the @bondcountybicentennial Facebook page so it can be seen by those not able to attend.
Bond County was formed out of Madison County by the Illinois Territorial Legislature on January 4, 1817. Its original borders were six miles further south and east of its present borders, and once included parts of Vandalia. Its northern border stretched up to the shores of Lake Superior. Hill’s Fort was the first County Seat, and it was one of only 15 counties that sent representatives to Kaskaskia to make Illinois a state in 1818. It’s named for Shadrach Bond, who had been the Territorial Representative to the US Congress, and later became the first State Governor of Illinois.
The committee is planning several events during 2017, including a festival and parade around the courthouse square in Greenville on July 2, in conjunction with the Bond County Fourth Fest. More information is available online at www.bondcountyhistorical.org, or on the Bond County Bicentennial Facebook page. -
NEWSBYTE: County Bicentennial Planning Process Update and Courthouse Grounds Use Request - Greenville Advocate
December 8, 2016
“... At [the Bond County Board’s] regular bimonthly meeting December 6... John Coleman from the Bond County Historical Society and chair on the Bond County Bicentennial Committee provided the board with an update on the planning process and to request the use of the courthouse and courthouse lawn for the celebration.
Coleman stated, ‘We just met with the Bond County Fireworks Committee and have decided that we will be having a fireworks display on July 2.’ The Bicentennial Committee has also decided that there will be a parade through town and music entertainment from local bands. Coleman requested that the board allow the committee to set up tours of the courthouse and grounds for the celebration. The board unanimously approved.
The Bond County Bicentennial Year will kick off on January 5 at the Bond County Courthouse.
The historical society is also hosting a fundraiser for the July 2 event on December 12 at St. Lawrence Church gymnasium. ‘It will be a soup, chili, and movie night,’ Coleman said. ‘We have these old movies of life in Bond County that we will be showing. It should be a lot of fun.’ ” -
FUNDRAISER: Soup & Chili Supper featuring Greenville Home Movies!
November 30, 2016
Join us Monday December 12th @ St Lawrence Church Hall - 512 S. Prairie St., Greenville, Illinois for a hearty Soup/Chili supper and stay for an Exclusive Screening of Greenville’s Home Movies from the 1940s & 1950s!
Serving soup and chili (includes fixings of crackers and cheese) and homemade desserts from 5:00p-7:00p with a 7:00pm Showtime for the first movie. RSVP or invite your friends to the event on Facebook. A benefit event for the Bond County Bicentennial Celebration, Tickets are available from Watson’s Drug Store, Will-o’-th’-Wind, TNT RV & Generator, and at the door: $6 - Adults, $3 - Kids ages 4-10, FREE - under 4.Read More and Hear Sound Bites about Bicentennial Movie Night at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
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Nov17
NEWSBYTE: County Board, Old Business - Greenville Advocate
November 17, 2016
“The board briefly discussed the county bicentennial celebration stating that they would kick off the celebration on the fifth of January. Elmore explained that they would have their Tuesday morning meeting on January 3 and recess to Thursday, January 5 at 5:30 p.m. in the courtroom at the courthouse. Judge John Knight would officially start the celebration of the bicentennial year.”