Dwight, Illinois – Not Just A Bump In The Road
Nestled within the expansive prairies of Illinois, lies a charming town that defies the simple descriptor of a mere roadside stop. Dwight, Illinois, a community of approximately 4,500 residents, proudly proclaims itself "Not Just A Bump in the Road," an assertion that holds true for those who venture beyond the highway and delve into its rich history and captivating attractions. This article explores the story of Dwight, Illinois, revealing its evolution from a railroad outpost to a town brimming with architectural gems and a unique place in medical history.
The origins of Dwight, Illinois, trace back to the early 1850s, a period marked by the rapid expansion of the railroad across the American landscape. Two railroad surveyors, James Spencer and T.C. Myer, established a campsite near the present-day location of the town. Their presence foreshadowed the transformative impact the railroad would have on the region. Within a few years, the iron rails were laid, and in 1854, the first train of the Alton and Sangamon Railroad (later known as the Chicago and Alton) chugged through, connecting Chicago to St. Louis. At that time, the fledgling settlement consisted of just two modest wooden buildings and a water tank, a rudimentary "station" known as West New York.
The destiny of the town took a significant turn when Richard P. Morgan, a survey engineer, was tasked with officially naming the burgeoning community. He proposed "Dwight," in honor of Henry Dwight, a New York investor who had contributed significantly to the railroad’s construction. This act of recognition cemented the town’s identity and set the stage for its future growth.
Like many settlements during this era, Dwight’s fate was inextricably linked to the railroad. The presence of a railway stop spurred development, attracting businesses and residents alike. In 1859, Morgan further contributed to the town’s infrastructure by constructing the first mill. He also generously donated land for the establishment of the Presbyterian Church, fostering a sense of community and spiritual life. David McWilliams, another pivotal figure in Dwight’s early history, established a general store that flourished in its first year. He would later play a key role in building the town’s first school and founding its first bank, now known as the Bank of Dwight, solidifying his legacy as a pillar of the community.
While Dwight, Illinois initially resembled other railroad towns of the era, its trajectory shifted dramatically in 1879. It was then that a young and ambitious physician, Dr. Leslie Keeley, opened the doors of the Keeley Institute. This institution marked a revolutionary approach to treating alcoholism, recognizing it as a disease rather than a moral failing. Dr. Keeley’s innovative methods and the promise of a cure drew patients from far and wide, catapulting Dwight into the national spotlight. By the 1890s, the Keeley Institute’s success had spawned a network of affiliated institutions across the United States and even overseas. The "Keeley Cure" became synonymous with hope for those struggling with addiction, and Dwight, Illinois became a beacon of recovery.
The legacy of Dr. Keeley continued even after his death in 1900. His partner and friend, John R. Oughton, assumed leadership of the corporation and further enhanced the town’s architectural landscape. Oughton renovated the Keeley Club House, a gathering place for patients and staff, transforming it into his private residence known as "The Manse." Today, this historic building has been repurposed as "The Country Mansion," a restaurant and banquet facility that preserves the charm and grandeur of its past. The Country Mansion stands as a tangible reminder of Dwight, Illinois‘s significant role in the history of addiction treatment.
The Keeley Institute continued its operations until 1966, a period when hospitals began to incorporate the treatment of alcoholism into their services. The original Keeley Institute building now houses the Fox Developmental Center, serving a new purpose while still standing as a testament to the town’s commitment to care and well-being.
The advent of Route 66, the "Mother Road" of America, brought another layer of history to Dwight, Illinois. While the iconic highway bypassed the town’s downtown district, Dwight adapted and evolved, with new businesses springing up along the Route 66 corridor to cater to the influx of travelers.
As visitors approach Dwight, Illinois on Route 66, one of the first sights that greets them is Big Al’s Hot Dogs, a classic roadside eatery serving up American favorites. A little further down the road stands the Ambler-Becker Texaco Station, a landmark built in 1933. This station, later known as the Marathon Oil Station, served countless travelers until its closure in 1998. Recognizing its historical significance, the community has undertaken a restoration project to transform the station into a visitor’s center, providing a welcoming gateway to Dwight, Illinois and its attractions.
Continuing along Route 66, travelers encounter another meticulously preserved gas station, adorned with a collection of vintage gas station memorabilia. This site is also home to Feddersen’s Pizza Garage, a unique establishment housed in a converted car dealership, offering a delicious blend of automotive history and culinary delights.
Beyond the Route 66 corridor, downtown Dwight, Illinois boasts a collection of historical buildings that showcase the town’s architectural heritage. The Dwight Historical Society and the Chamber of Commerce are housed in the stunning stone railroad depot, constructed in 1891 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The First National Bank building, designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1905, stands as a prime example of Prairie School architecture. The former Keeley Institute building, with its priceless stained-glass windows depicting the five senses, is another architectural treasure.
In addition to these prominent landmarks, the Prairie Creek Public Library, housed in a charming old carriage house, The Country Mansion, the Pioneer Gothic Church, and the historic Windmill in the City Center are also on the National Register of Historic Places, further highlighting Dwight, Illinois‘s commitment to preserving its past.
For those continuing their journey along Route 66, the nearby towns of Odell and Pontiac offer further opportunities to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of the Mother Road era. However, a stop in Dwight offers a unique glimpse into a town that is far more than just a fleeting roadside attraction. Its history, architecture, and spirit make it a destination worthy of exploration.