Streator's history is a composite of coal, railroads, farming, glass manufacturing and the genius of the prairie spirit.
"America's Smartest Car", the Roamer was built in Streator. A 1917 model is pictured, right, and is showcase during Streator's Annual Roamer Car Show and Cruise Night held annually on Labor Day weekend.
Clyde Tombaugh spent his youth searching the heavens near Streator and discovered the planet Pluto, the only American to ever discover a planet.
Clarence Mulford grew up in Streator playing cowboys and Indians along the Vermilion River, and later wrote the famous Hopalong Cassidy series of books based on his youthful experiences. The Hopalong Cassidy River Trail winds along the banks of the Vermilion River, passing Cassidy creator Clarence Mulford's boyhood home.
Andrew Carnegie was a particular friend of Streator founder Colonel Ralph Plumb and donated money to build a magnificent library. Built in 1903, the Carnegie Library is unusual because of its domed ceiling and large murals by Albert Fuchs. The library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Burton Baskin got together with his brother-in-law to open an ice cream shop, Baskin-Robbins.
Edward Plumb became musical director for Walt Disney for much of its glory years.
George "Honey Boy" Evans blazed a musical trail with hits like "In The Good Old Summertime" at the turn of the century.
Built in 1893 by Silas Williams, the Baker House is an historical restoration in progress. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, the home may be seen at 702 E. Broadway.
The Ruffin D. Fletcher House, locally known as the Dicus House, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. This home is located at 609 E. Broadway.
The Weber House and Garden features both a unique 18th
century
style home and a spacious English garden. Phone 815-672-8327 to schedule your
personally conducted tour.
The Streatorland Historical Museum features a thorough look at Streator's history, including the Streator Canteen that helped serve our nation's military personnel during WWII. Open M-F 10-3 and Sunday 1-4, group tours are available by appointment by phoning 815-672-2443.
Interested in genealogy? Streator's historical cemeteries offer many interesting markers and allow for research of historical personages.