Normal and Bloomington – Heart of Illinois
As travelers journey along the historic Route 66 in Illinois, a unique experience awaits them. The lines between the towns of Normal and Bloomington blur, creating a virtually seamless urban landscape. The close proximity and intertwined histories of these two communities make them a fascinating destination, a true heart of Illinois, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich past and vibrant present. To truly appreciate the area, it’s crucial to understand the distinct identities of Normal and Bloomington and how they have evolved together.
Normal, Illinois: A Town Forged by Education and Innovation
The story of Normal begins in 1854, with the initial platting of North Bloomington at "The Junction," the intersection of the Illinois Central and Chicago & Alton railroads. This strategic location, on land owned by Joseph Parkinson, quickly proved to be a significant advantage. However, the town’s true development began three years later with the efforts of Jesse Fell, often regarded as the "founding father" of Normal. Fell’s vision transformed the area northeast of the original plat into a thriving community. Early industries included nurseries, horse breeding, and canneries, showcasing the town’s early agricultural roots.
The pivotal moment in Normal’s history arrived in 1857 when Governor William Bissell approved the creation of a "normal" school, a term then used for teacher-training colleges. Jesse Fell championed the cause in Bloomington, securing the necessary financial support for the institution. Adding a touch of historical significance, Abraham Lincoln, then a practicing attorney, drafted the bond guaranteeing the financial commitments of Bloomington’s citizens. The university initially held classes in Bloomington while its campus was under construction north of the town.
In 1861, Old Main, the university’s central building, was completed, marking the official establishment of the state’s first teachers’ college. Four years later, in 1865, the town officially incorporated, adopting the name Normal, a direct reflection of its educational focus. That same year, legislation was passed to establish the Civil War Orphans Home in Normal, later known as the Illinois Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Children’s School, which opened its doors in 1867. This institution played a significant role in the town’s identity, providing care and education for children affected by the war.
The 1870s saw the rise of the first successful canning business, transforming Normal into a shipping center for berries, small fruits, and vegetables in the following decade. This agricultural boom further solidified the town’s economic base and its connection to the surrounding farmlands.
Disaster struck on August 4, 1890, when a fire engulfed a grocery store, resulting in the destruction of several downtown businesses. This devastating event led to a significant rebuilding effort, resulting in the two-story brick buildings that still characterize much of the downtown area today. A subsequent fire in 1896 further emphasized the need for fire protection, leading to the purchase of firefighting equipment and the establishment of a volunteer fire department.
The arrival of the 1920s brought transportation changes, with buses gradually replacing the streetcar lines connecting Normal and Bloomington. The designation of Route 66 further transformed the area, attracting new businesses catering to the increasing number of travelers. Gus and Edith Belt, recognizing the opportunity, added a dining room to their Shell Gas Station, calling it Shell’s Chicken. However, Gus soon realized the prevalence of chicken restaurants in central Illinois and sought a unique offering. With the help of friends, he introduced a novel product to the Mother Road’s travelers: the steak burger. In February 1934, the first Steak ‘n Shake opened in Normal, Illinois, a testament to the town’s innovative spirit and entrepreneurial drive. The opening of Steak ‘n Shake further cemented the place of Normal and Bloomington in Illinois history.
Bloomington, Illinois: A Legacy Rooted in Agriculture and Law
Bloomington, in contrast to Normal, boasts a history extending back decades earlier. The settlement’s origins trace back to a large grove of trees frequented by the Kickapoo Indians before the arrival of white settlers in the early 1820s. Before any permanent settlement, trappers reportedly hid a keg of liquor in the grove. When the Indians discovered and consumed it, the area became known as Keg Grove. As settlers began to populate the land, the name evolved to Blooming Grove, reflecting the abundance of wildflowers in the area.
On December 25, 1830, McLean County was incorporated, and James Allen donated 60 acres for a new town to serve as the county seat. The area, once called Keg Grove and Blooming Grove, was officially named Bloomington. The town was laid out, and on July 4, 1831, lots were sold at a festive event. The county’s fertile soil quickly attracted farmers, leading to the rapid development of Bloomington’s downtown district.
During these formative years, Abraham Lincoln frequently traveled to Bloomington as part of his legal circuit. He conducted business in the Miller-Davis building at 101 N Main Street, a building that has been restored to its former glory. In Bloomington, Lincoln interacted with numerous lawyers and prominent businessmen, including Jesse Fell, who encouraged Lincoln to pursue the presidency.
This meeting proved pivotal, resulting in Lincoln penning his autobiography, which Fell disseminated to the Eastern press, introducing Lincoln to the national political scene. Judge David Davis of Bloomington, another key figure, played an instrumental role in Lincoln’s successful 1860 presidential nomination. In 1872, Davis and his wife, Sarah, constructed an elegant Victorian Mansion at 1000 E. Monroe Drive, a landmark that stands today, furnished with opulent European fixtures and serving as a museum.
At the turn of the century, a devastating fire ravaged much of Bloomington’s downtown area. Despite this setback, agriculture, highways, railroads, and insurance continued to fuel the city’s growth. When Route 66 was established in 1926, following the Chicago & Alton Railroad corridor, a surge of businesses emerged along the route and in the heart of Bloomington’s downtown district.
However, the construction of Interstate 55, which bypassed downtown Bloomington, led to a decline in the area’s historic businesses.
Today, Bloomington, with a population of approximately 65,000, has made significant efforts to restore its historic downtown area. The area retains much of its nineteenth-century charm, reflected in its restaurants, shops, and galleries.
Visitors to Bloomington should not miss the McLean County Museum of History, located in the historic 1903 courthouse at 200 N. Main Street. The museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, showcases artifacts from early settlers, Abraham Lincoln, and provides insights into the lives of Bloomington’s early residents. To experience the Route 66 era, Cotton’s Village Inn, located at 410 N. Main in Bloomington, remains a tangible reminder of the city’s past. The story of Normal and Bloomington is a story of the heartland.
A Combined Legacy: The Heart of Illinois
While each town has its distinct narrative, Normal and Bloomington have become inextricably linked over time. The proximity and shared history have fostered a sense of community, making them a vibrant destination in the heart of Illinois. The tale of Normal and Bloomington showcases Illinois’ evolution. Travelers continuing down old Route 66 can explore the ghost town of Funks Grove and more vintage-era sites at McLean and Atlanta, Illinois, each contributing to the state’s rich heritage.