Wilmington, Illinois & the Gemini Giant
Nestled along the historic Route 66 in Illinois, the charming town of Wilmington, Illinois, boasts a population of just over 5,000 residents. However, its most iconic and frequently photographed "citizen" isn’t a person at all, but rather the towering Gemini Giant. This colossal fiberglass figure, a relic from the 1960s, stands as a testament to a bygone era of roadside Americana. These larger-than-life "muffler men," as they were commonly known, once dotted the American landscape, each holding a unique object ranging from mufflers and hot dogs to axes and more. The Gemini Giant, in a nod to the space-age fascination of the time, proudly holds a rocket ship, capturing the spirit of exploration and innovation. While many of these towering figures have disappeared over time, the Gemini Giant endures in Wilmington, Illinois, alongside other historical treasures, offering a glimpse into the past.
The story of Wilmington, Illinois, begins in 1834 when Thomas Cox acquired 400 acres of land from the government. Recognizing the area’s potential, he established a sawmill, quickly followed by a corn cracker, a gristmill, and a carding machine. This multifaceted enterprise became known as Cox’s Mills, drawing settlers from as far as 50 miles away who came to have their corn and wheat ground. Cox’s Mills became a vital hub for the surrounding communities, laying the foundation for the future town of Wilmington, Illinois.
In the spring of 1836, the enterprising Mr. Cox formally laid out the town of Winchester and began selling lots. Among the early structures built was a stone home constructed by Daniel McIntosh near Forked Creek, which still stands today just south of Route 66, a lasting reminder of the town’s early days. Another building dating back to that first year is the Eagle Hotel, which served as a stage stop and later played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad before the Civil War. These historic buildings provide tangible links to Wilmington, Illinois’s, rich and layered past.
The town’s original hitching yard was located on Main Street between Baltimore and Jackson, a bustling center where wild horses were brought to be sold. Adjacent to the hitching yard was the Westbound Stage Depot, serving as a vital link in the transportation network of the time. The early stage route, running between Chicago and Pontiac, followed Kankakee Street between River Road and Baltimore, further solidifying Wilmington, Illinois, as a key stop on the developing transportation routes.
In 1837, a post office was established in the growing community, signifying its increasing importance. Early church services were held in Peter Stewart’s barn, showcasing the strong community spirit and the importance of faith in the lives of the early settlers. A year later, the town’s name was officially changed to Wilmington, Illinois. Soon after, other entrepreneurs began developing new additions to the town. Elias Brown opened another hotel, catering to the growing number of travelers, and Henry Brown established a new store, providing essential goods and services to the community.
By 1839, a public school was established, marking a commitment to education and the future of the town’s children. A small school building was soon erected, providing a dedicated space for learning. The following year, the town’s first church was built, solidifying the community’s spiritual foundation. These developments reflected the growing stability and prosperity of Wilmington, Illinois.
The arrival of the Chicago and Alton Railroad on July 4, 1854, brought a new wave of prosperity to Wilmington, Illinois. Land prices tripled almost overnight, reflecting the increased accessibility and economic opportunities that the railroad provided. The town was officially incorporated as a village, signifying its growing importance and self-governance.
During the tumultuous years leading up to and during the Civil War, many family homes in Wilmington, Illinois, served as depots for the Underground Railroad. Fugitives seeking freedom were hidden in attics, barns, woodpiles, haystacks, and other concealed locations, demonstrating the community’s commitment to justice and equality.
The 1870s saw the establishment of several manufacturing facilities in Wilmington, Illinois, including a flour mill, a butter and cheese factory, and a paper mill. These industries contributed to the town’s economic growth and diversification, creating jobs and opportunities for residents.
When Route 66, the "Mother Road," passed through Wilmington, Illinois, the town embraced the opportunity to serve the needs of the many travelers on the iconic highway. The Eagle Hotel, which had previously served stagecoach travelers, now welcomed those journeying west by automobile. In 1937, the Mar Theatre, a grand movie palace with 500 seats, opened its doors at 121 S. Main Street, providing entertainment and a sense of community for both residents and visitors.
The Dairy Delight, a popular roadside eatery, opened in the late 1950s by John and Bernice Korelc at 810 E. Baltimore St. In 1965, they expanded the business and renamed it the Launching Pad. That same year, John Korelc encountered one of the famous Muffler Men at a restaurant convention and decided to create his own version, giving it a unique twist by designing it to resemble an astronaut. He named it the "Gemini Giant," in honor of the Gemini space program. This iconic figure quickly became one of the most photographed landmarks along Route 66. Both the Gemini Giant and the Launching Pad were inducted into the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2000, solidifying their place in the history of the Mother Road. The Launching Pad experienced several changes in ownership and faced periods of closure before being revitalized in the spring of 2018 by Tully Garrett and Holly Barker, ensuring that the Gemini Giant and its roadside attraction continue to delight travelers.
The Eagle Hotel, a venerable landmark in Wilmington, Illinois, fell into disrepair by the late 20th century, even facing the threat of demolition. This historic hotel, the oldest on Route 66, originally catered to riverboat and stagecoach travelers when it was built in 1836. After years of operation, it was converted into a boarding house and later into apartments in the 1940s. In 1982, it became the home of the Wilmington Area Historical Society museum. However, a devastating fire in 1990 forced the museum to relocate, casting doubt on the building’s future. Thanks to the efforts of the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program and other preservationists, the Eagle Hotel was saved from demolition and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. While it remains vacant, its preservation ensures that this important piece of Wilmington, Illinois’s, history will endure.
As you travel through this charming town, with its historic buildings and dedication to preserving its heritage, it becomes clear that Wilmington, Illinois, is deeply committed to its past. Be sure to explore the many antique stores located in the historic downtown area, offering a chance to discover unique treasures and connect with the town’s rich history.
Beyond the town’s historical attractions, the nearby Kankakee River State Park offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, with excellent fishing for bass, catfish, northern pike, and walleye. The park also features numerous hiking trails, horseback riding, and camping facilities, providing a natural escape for visitors.
Another notable natural area near Wilmington, Illinois, is the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. Encompassing over 19,000 acres and once used by the U.S. Army as the Joliet Arsenal, the land has been returned to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service for conservation and wildlife preservation. Today, the prairie offers numerous hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and limited hunting, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the restored tallgrass ecosystem.
After exploring the history and natural beauty of Wilmington, Illinois, continue your journey along Route 66, passing through the old coal mining communities of Braidwood, Braceville, and Gardner, each with its own unique history and charm.