USA > Illinois > Randolph County > Prairie du Rocher > Glimpses of Prairie du Rocher, its history from 1722 to 1942 intimately linked with that of Randolph County and of the state of Illinois > Part 2
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TWO HISTORIC EVENTS :- Two hundred and twenty years ago the village of Prairie du Rocher was founded. That was an historic event, worthy of some record. Two hundred and twenty years ago a book was written, and published, which has been a first-seller ever since, and has been re published countless times, and read by tens of milions. Its title is known throughout all the world, it is "Robinson Crusoe." It was written by Daniel Defoe, an Englishman, who founded his story upon the experiences of Alexander Selkirk, a castaway on the lonely island of Juan Fernandez. We link these two historic events, in this publication, because of the striking fact that both were born in the same year.
DESCRIPTIVE MATTER
The present Civic Government of Prairie du Rocher is lodged in a mayor and several alderman. It consists of the following gentlemen who are serving the community with distinction and with considerable progressiveness: Dr. John T. Finley, mayor: Elmer A. Laurent, trustee and acting mayor; Leo. Laurent, trustee; Welda Laurent, trustee; Emile J. Dufrenne, trustee; Ralph Melliere, trustee.
Its Singing Society operates under the name "Fort Chartres La Guillonnee Society," although various spell- ings have been applied to it in publications of the past. An authority on French pronunciation tells us that this name should be pronounced La Giu Annee, and he was considerably put out when we gave it a different pronun- ciation. However the fact remains that this singing so- ciety contributed considerably to a great festive orcasion, when on Sunday, July 14, 1940, the Annual Fete com- memorating the Fall of the Bastille was celebrated. The music to the song was provided by Mrs. Anne Andre- Clark, now residing at Santa Monica, California; she was born in the Brickey house, which we picture, long time ago. Before her second marriage to Mr. Clark she was Mrs. Charles P. Johnson, who was at one time Governor of Missouri, and was noted as a great criminal lawyer. Captain N. C. Duclos is president of the society, and Leo F. Duclos is its vice-president. This society also took a very active part in enlivening the dedicatory services of the now restored Cahokia Court house, on May 30, 1940.
MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS: - A number of manufacturing concerns may said to still exist in Prairie du Rocher. Among these is the large elevator,
HISTORY AND GLIMPSES OF PRAIRIE du ROCHER
operated under the ownership of the Cole Milling Co., of Chester, with immense storage capacity. The Colum- bia Farmers' Co-Operative Grain Company also operates a mill and elevator in this city. One of the principal in- dustries is that of the Columbia Quarry Company, which operates extensive quarries in the bluffs at Prairie du Rocher, where building stone, and road material are pro- duced in large quantities. Still another establishment which may be classed also as a manufacturing establish. ment is the lumber yard prominently situated at the en- trance to the village, and several saw-mills which manu- facture railroad ties, and staves.
MERCANTILE ESTABLISHMENTS :- In the ad- vertising pages of this book the names of several mer- cantile establishments will be found displayed. Among these prominently to be mentioned because of the long years of continuous service to the community is the Con- nors' Department store, situated on the main street cf the village; the Brickey & Co., store, which carries an
beautiful still when rich harvests are being gathered. In brief the farming district of Prairie du Rocher is one of the best to be found in all of Southern Illinois, known for fertility of soil, and for the diligence and progressive- ness of its farmers.
OUR FRIENDS AND ADVERTISERS :- Whilst the issuing of this booklet on Prairie du Rocher has not been primarily a money-making scheme, but intensively a historic development, the publisher and editor take great pleasure in acknowledging the valuable aid thus extended in making possible the publication in its present form.
THE WINNING OF CROSBY'S OPERA HOUSE: - In the year 1865, shortly after the close of the Civil War, there was built in Chicago a theatre building which in size and magnificence became famed throughout the Midwest. It was the Crosby Opera House, and its ini- tial cost was above $600,000.00. Six hundred thousand dollars. But this enterprise was not financially successful, and two year later it was raffled on lottery tickets. Among the purchasers of these lottery tickets was a native of
Armin Palmier Typical French Home at Prairie du Rocher
extensive line of goods; the Allard's store which in point of time and service is to be reckoned among the leading mercantile establishments. Other establishments of similar character are the Bielefeld Garage, which conducts a comprehensive service in its line, and the Berry's Market, which lately has absorbed the Siegfried Bros. store. We must not forget to mention in this book the splendid eating establishments conducted by and known as the Berry's Cafe, as also Lou's Tavern, where an appetizing meal also is served.
FARMING DISTRICT :- We have already referred to the early farming conducted by the early settlers in this vicinity. It spreads all around Prairie du Rocher, in the valleys, on the hillsides, on the table-lands 'round about. Rich in soil fertility the country presents a most beautiful appearance. Wheat, oats, barley, corn, soy-beans, clover and alfalfa are grown in abundance. Dairy farming and poultry raising are extensively indulged in, and many orchards of apples, peaches and pears are to be seen, the trees of which are beautiful in blossoming time, and more
Prairie du Rocher. William Lec, who was the lucky winner. He sold the building and ground for the sum said to have been in excess of a quarter million dollars. This huge sum was invested in enterprises of diversified nature, among them the development of the Plate-glass industry of Crystal City, and Festus, Missouri; and the speculative ventures in the Silver and Gold Mines of Colorado, as also in Lead and Silver Mines of Missouri.
THE BRICKEY HOMESTEAD: One of the preten- tious homes of Prairie du Rocher is the old Brickey homestead. It lies on the main street leading through the village, and its well-kept lawns and wide porches bespeak the true hospitality which once was there, so lavishly be- stowed. The mansion is a wood structure, and its chief charm lies in the fact that, although no longer the resi- dence of the Brickey family, it has ever been kept under their proprietorship, and has been supervised by compe- tent caretakers. The rooms of this old mansion are still filled with many articles of interest. We show a picture of the exterior in this issue.
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HISTORY AND GLIMPSES OF PRAIRIE du ROCHER
THE ARSON PALMIER HOUSE :- One of the old- est houses in Prairie du Rocher, this home seemd worthy of picturization. We class it among the typically French period buildings. Its wide porch runs the entire length of the house and invites to comfort and rest. The inner rooms bespeak the true culture and the religious spirit of its inhabitants, as docs the entire village, up to the present. We found in this old home a number of pic- tures, depicting religious scenes, one in particular which impressed us. It was a "First Holy Communion" picture. The inscription read: "Alice Alicia Louvier, First Holy Communion, 30th day of April, 1882," and the signature was that of Reverend Charles Krewet, who for many years administered to the parish.
of old Prairie du Rocher on the night of a certain day in January, 1779.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE CLIMATE IN 1699 .- Record is made of a letter in which Reverend Julien Bineteau, S.J., writes of the climate of the Illinois coun- try. "I am to return to the Illinois of Tamaroa in the Spring. There is a great difference between this climate and that of Quebec, where the cold lasts a long time, and a great quantity of snow falls; whereas here, as a rule the snow remains but a very short time. We have hardly felt the cold during the whole of this month of January. Vines climb all around the trees, up to their tops; the grapes are wild, and are not nearly as good as those of France. There are an indefinite number of nut and plum
Typical Tombstone in St. Patrick's Cemetery, Ruma, Illinois
A FESTIVE DAY IN 1779 :- On a certain day in January, 1779, (the exact date cannot now be ascertained) the little village of Prairie du Rocher was all aglow with excitement. A party of soldiers had arrived. It was a detachment under the command of Col. Rogers Clark, and they decided to spend the evening at the hospitable home of Captain Jean Baptiste Barbeau, (Barber). Col. Rogers Clark tells of this hospitable reception and the "ball' that followed: "We went cheerflly to Prara De Ruch, 12 miles from Kaskaskia, war I intended to spend the Eavening at Captn Barbers."
"The Gentlemen & Ladies immediately assembled at a Ball ofr our Entertainment; we spent the fore part of the night very agreeably; but about 12 Oclock there was a very sudden change by an Express arriveing, enforming us that Governour Hammilton was within three miles of Kaskaskia with eight hundred Men, and was determined to attack the Fort that night.
Col. Clark at once ordered his horses saddled in order. if possible, to get into the Fort before the attack could be made. .. . . Clark's brave conduct inspired a number of young men of Prairie du Rocher to saddle their horses and accompany their intrepid leader. But the great at- tack never occurred The fact, however, remains, that Col. Clark danced with some of the belles and mesdames
trees of various kinds; also some small apples. We find here two kinds of fruit trees that are not known in France. They are assimines and piakimines. (Probably persimmons and wild crabapples.) Their fruit is good. We in this country go without all other delicious fruits of France. Game is plentiful, such as ducks, geese, bu- stards, swans, cranes and turkeys. Ox, bear and deer furnish the substantial meats that we eat in this game country.
THE OLD FORT :- In an old hook we find reference to the proposed building of Fort de Chartres. We picture the new fort in this issue. It read "The old village of Kaskaskia is regarded with reason as a very advantageous site for the stone fort, which the Court orders built in the Illinois. Limestone, wood for construction, a river to harbor the hoats, a view over the Mississippi about two leagues up and two leagues down, the rocky bluff which slopes very gently down to the Mississippi, a prairie adjoining said bluff, the Mississippi, too, which would he under protection of the fort, the Missouri, too, which empties into the river five leagues from here on the west side of the said river, and the Illinois river which mingles its water therewith eleven leagues from here on the west (east), all these considerations would seem to
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HISTORY AND GLIMPSES OF PRAIRIE du ROCHER
insist on the necessity of building the fort in question in this place, as is very much the talk now. In this case the Seigneurie of the Tamaroais would soon be established from one end to the other."
This was written on April 12, 1735, and is found in the Laval Mss.
AN IRISHMAN IN COMMAND: Even during the French occupation of the Illlinois Territory, it was an Irishman who commanded the country, and he was vested with almost vice-regal power, in the name of King Louis of France. He was known as Chevalier Charles Mac Carthy. He was born in Ireland in 1706 and was there known as "Mac Carty Mac Taig," which means literally, "Mac Carthy, the son of Taig or Thaddeus." He was
NOTE :- The illustrations in this booklet were made from photographs taken by Carlos Piaget, of the Piaget Studios, 3800 West Pine Street, St. Louis, Missouri.
Old Hotel in Kaskaskia, Where Lafayette Was Entertained In 1825
an officer in the French Army, and in 1731 was sent to Louisiana in charge of a detachment of engineers. On the 20th of August, 1751, Mac Carthy sailed from New Orleans with a small military force to take command of and rebuild Fort de Chartres. They arrived at Fort de Chatres on March 28, 1752, and from that time until 1760 Chevalier Mac Carthy was in command of all the French troops in the Illinois country. When, under his direction, Fort de Chartres was rebuilt, it was regarded as the best fort in America.
For Printing of All Kinds Large or Small
WRITE OR PHONE
BUECHLER PRINTING CO.
FOR ESTIMATES
PHONE 1108
BELLEVILLE, ILL.
CONTENTS :
THE DAWN OF PRAIRIE DU ROCHER SOCIAL LIFE OF EARLY SETTLERS HORSES AND CATTLE INTRODUCED EARLY CROPS AND FLOWERS EARLY FRENCH GOVERNMENT JEAN ST. THERESA LANGLOIS EARLY LEGAL TANSACTIONS EARLY CENSUS
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER IN 1941 DESCRIPTIVE MATTER
Its Civic Government at Present
Its Singing Society, La Guignolle
Its Manufacturing Establishments
Its Mercantile Establishments
Its Farming District
HISTORY OF ST. ANNE & ST. JOSEPH PARISHES Early History
Golden Jubilee of Reverend Wm. Van Delft, Dean Brief Biography of Rev. Raymond L. Harbaugh
U. OF ILL UR
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HISTORY AND GLIMPSES OF PRAIRIE du ROCHER
HISTORY REPEATS
Like the Pioneers of Picturesque, Historical PRAIRIE DU ROCHER
who successfully wrought from the wilderness the fertile lands surrounding the quaint old French City. A City set in a background of one of nature's finest panorama of beauty.
A City whose happy atmosphere and friendly neighbors remain forever in the memory of all who visit or sojourn in Prairie du Rocher.
YOUR CO-OP
also is pioneering a succssful Co-operative Agricul- tural Service to its hundreds of Members and Patrons.
Let It Serve You!
COLUMBIA FARMERS CO-OP GRAIN CO.
COLUMBIA AND PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILLINOIS
STATE BANK OF PRAIRIE DU ROCHER
Long time ago the Edwardsville Bank sold stock to inhabitants of Prairie du Rocher and vicinity.
Long time ago the State Bank of Prairie du Rocher was organized by private enterprise and initiative. It was established to serve this community and its farming territory.
Its beginnings were humble, but substantial. Its growth continuous and successful.
Today the Bank of Prairie du Rocher is a modern Institution. It serves an cver increasing clientel and serves them with promptness and friendliness. It is ready to serve you.
STATE BANK OF PRAIRIE DU ROCHER
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILLINOIS
P. Flannery & Son
Dealers In
Lime . Sand . Cement . Brick . Sewer Pipe Roofing Papers . Plaster Boards, Etc. Ready-Mixed Concrete Phones: East 7000 - Bridge 4145 21ST & STATE STS. EAST ST. LOUIS, ILL.
F. M. BRICKEY & CO.
General Merchandise
Phone 76
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILL.
METZGER EQUIPMENT COMPANY
McCormick.Deering Sales and Service - Washers - Pumps -Repairs WATERLOO - RED BUD - VALMEYER
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HISTORY AND GLIMPSES OF PRAIRIE du ROCHER
We Buy . . . We Sell . MILK
-
Waterloo Milk Co.
Inc.
WATERLOO, ILLINOIS
WILLIAM A. VOSS
A & G Store Groceries - Meats - Vegetables Patent Medicines
Cash Buyer of Cream and Country Produce PHONE 25 RED BUD, ILL.
Fred Husemann Bottling Works Manufacturer of HI-GRADE SODAS RED BUD, ILLINOIS
FRANKLIN VARIETY STORE
Groceries - Meats - Vegetables Patent Medecines
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILL.
Optical Goods . Photo Supplies . Art Materials Moving Picture Machines
Erker's 610 OLIVE ST., St. Louis 518 N. GRAND BLVD.
BIELEFELD GARAGE
"It's Another Big Year for Pontiac"
Telephone 64
W. C. BIELEFELD PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILL.
BERRY'S RESTAURANT
"A Splendid Place to Eat"
Dinners, Lunches and Refreshments Served
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILL.
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HISTORY AND GLIMPSES OF PRAIRIE du ROCHER
Compliments of
Midland Plumbing and Supply Co.
EAST ST. LOUIS, ILL.
SCHRADER SHOPS
Ladies' and Children's Ready-to-Wear RED BUD, ILLINOIS
SILVER FOX
Always Runs Best
FLOUR
FEED
MONROE MILLING CO. WATERLOO, ILLINOIS
LOU'S TAVERN
. Easy to Find . . . Hard to Leave PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILL.
BAECHLE CLEANING CO.
BELLEVILLE No. 1 CLEANER
PHONE 540
216 East Main St. Belleville, Il1.
TWENTY-SIX YEARS OF CONTINUOUS PROGRESS From Small Beginning in 1915 The Business of
STRECK BROS.
Has been one of continuous growth and expansion. Organized in 1915 this firm is today one of the finest and most economically arranged MEAT PACKERS PLANTS in this vicinity Selected Home-Dressed
BEEF VEAL PORK LAMB Are processed in this modern plant and a com- plete line of finest quality PURE MEAT, SAU- SAGES, HAMS, BACON and LARD are man- ufactured and delivered daily to all progressive Retail Markets in Belleville and more than 50 surrounding towns within a radius of sixty miles from Belleville.
STRECK BROS.
Are also manufacturers of NONE BETTER Brand Meat Scrap and Tankage. These products are sold by all dealers in this vicinity.
STRECK BROS. BELLEVILLE, ILLINOIS
CARPENTER
A. H. HONER
Cemetery Memorials 829 So. Illinois St. Belleville, Ilinois PHONE 2265
W. C. Babilon EAST 4471 Barth's Upholstery Shoppe
Upholstering . Slip Covers . Refinishing and Repairing 2211 State Street EAST ST. LOUIS, ILL.
GEROLD
Storage and Moving Service Since 1894 Interstate Moving COAST to COAST TENTH AND GATY AVENUE PHONE: East 700 EAST ST. LOUIS, ILL.
Felicitation Prairie du Rocher! Bonheur from one old friend to another.
YOUR HISTORY and ours is so closely linked. The trees we felled in 1839 you to clear the land and build homes . . . we to build our first mill. Together we've seen the tides of fortune rise and fall since those trying early days. Today we both stand as monuments to the glorious spirit of a hardy past.
To serve your community an important branch of our mill, a grain elevator, is in Prairie du Rocher. There the farmers, many who till the fields of their fathers, may bring their golden wheat . . . the kind of wheat that makes OMEGA Flour,"The South's Finest." Felicitation Prairie du Rocher! May we remain friends forever.
H. C. COLE MILLING CO.
CHESTER, ILLINOIS
A historir Firm
W. H. CONNER & CO.
In Business Over 92 Years at PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, ILLINOIS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-URBANA 977.392G499 C001 GLIMPSES OF PRAIRIE DU ROCHER. BELLEVILL
3 0112 025400026
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