Tales and Trails of Illinois

Based on a collection of fifty-two vignettes of Illinois history originally published as weekly columns in newspapers and revised for publication in book form, Tales and Trails of Illinois presents little-known episodes and adds perspective to tales of the states varied past. Pairing readable commentary with striking description and detail, the book is a useful compendium of Illinois heritage in an accessible and entertaining format. Stu Fliege highlights historical events, such as the Herrin Massacre and Chicagos Iroquois Theatre fire, and covers the diverse terrain of Illinoiss natural and constructed wonders, from Lusk Creek Canyon to Robert Allerton Park. Readers will meet a colorful cast of characters including pioneers, squatters, miners, gangsters, and utopian leaders. Theyll travel back in time to when salt production was the states main industry and learn of the Illinois ingenuity that spawned inventions including barbed wire, the steel plow, and the Ferris wheel. From Oquawkas elephant memorial to Murphysboros mysterious mud monster, the book also offers quirky facts and spooky stories that arent found in the average history book. Liberally illustrated and clearly written, Tales and Trails of Illinois is a helpful learning tool for Illinoisans of all ages, perfect for families, history buffs, libraries, and the classroom.