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El Paso, Illinois

Coordinates: 40°44′26″N 89°01′06″W / 40.74056°N 89.01833°W / 40.74056; -89.01833
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Not to be confused with El Paso, Texas.
El Paso, Illinois
City
City hall
City hall
Location in Woodford County, Illinois
Location in Woodford County, Illinois
El Paso is located in the United States
El Paso
El Paso
Location in the United States
Coordinates: 40°44′26″N 89°01′06″W / 40.74056°N 89.01833°W / 40.74056; -89.01833
CountryUnited States
StateIllinois
CountiesWoodford, McLean
TownshipsEl Paso, Gridley
Government
 • MayorJW Price
Area
[1]
 • Total
2.15 sq mi (5.56 km2)
 • Land2.15 sq mi (5.56 km2)
 • Water0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2)
Elevation
[2]
748 ft (228 m)
Population
 (2020)[3]
 • Total
2,756
 • Density1,284.85/sq mi (496.04/km2)
Time zoneUTC-6 (CST)
 • Summer (DST)UTC-5 (CDT)
ZIP code
61738
Area code309
FIPS code17-23737
FIPS code17-23737
GNIS ID2394632[2]
Wikimedia CommonsEl Paso, Illinois
Websitewww.elpasoil.org

El Paso is a city in Woodford and McLean counties in the U.S. state of Illinois. The population was 2,756 at the 2020 census.[3] The Woodford County portion of El Paso is part of the Peoria Metropolitan Statistical Area.

El Paso is a small community in central Illinois that took on more characteristics of a highway community after the construction of Interstate 39, which supplanted the older alignment of U.S. Highway 51.[citation needed]

History

[edit]
The Campbell House Memorial
West Block of Front St
East Block of Front St

El Paso was founded by George Gibson and James Wathen. Gibson gave it the Spanish name El Paso, either after El Paso, Texas,[4] or because of a nearby railroad junction.[5]

In 1867, El Paso tried unsuccessfully to become the county seat of Woodford County by offering $30,000 to Metamora to relinquish the title[6]. A closely contested vote initially favored El Paso, but a recount reversed the decision by a margin of ten votes. Several towns, including Eureka, El Paso, and Roanoke, vied for the county seat over the years. Not until 1894 did Eureka successfully became the county seat.

The Campbell House[7] in El Paso, Illinois, was built in 1854 by William Campbell, an early settler and prominent local figure, and it served as an important stagecoach stop along the Peoria and Bloomington Road. The house, later preserved as a historic landmark, reflects the pioneer spirit of the region and the city's early development. A memorial on the property honors the Campbell family’s contributions to El Paso’s history, celebrating their role in shaping the community.

Front Street[7] in El Paso, Illinois, emerged as the central hub of the city's business district in the late 19th century, reflecting the town's growth alongside the railroad. In 1894, a major reconstruction effort transformed the street with the addition of brick-paved roads and new commercial buildings, solidifying its status as a bustling center of commerce. Today, Front Street preserves its historic charm while continuing to serve as a vital part of the community, with revitalization of the sidewalks occurring in 2022.

Geography

[edit]

El Paso is located in southeastern Woodford County at 40°44′20″N 89°0′58″W / 40.73889°N 89.01611°W / 40.73889; -89.01611 (40.738800, -89.016034).[8] A small portion of the city limits extends east along U.S. Route 24 into northern McLean County. US 24 leads east 15 miles (24 km) to Interstate 55 in Chenoa and west 32 miles (51 km) to Peoria. Interstate 39 crosses the west side of El Paso, with access from Exit 14 (US 24); the Interstate highway leads south 14 miles (23 km) to Interstate 55 in Normal and north 45 miles (72 km) to La Salle. Illinois Route 251 follows the former alignment of U.S. Route 51 through the center of El Paso, leading north 11 miles (18 km) to Minonk and south 5 miles (8 km) to Kappa.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, El Paso has a total area of 2.15 square miles (5.57 km2), all land.[1] The city sits on high ground that drains north to the East Branch of Panther Creek and south to the headwaters of Wolf Creek. Both creek systems are south-flowing tributaries of the Mackinaw River and part of the Illinois River watershed.

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1860890—
18701,56475.7%
18801,390−11.1%
18901,353−2.7%
19001,4416.5%
19101,4702.0%
19201,63811.4%
19301,578−3.7%
19401,6212.7%
19501,81812.2%
19601,9648.0%
19702,29116.6%
19802,67616.8%
19902,499−6.6%
20002,6957.8%
20102,8104.3%
20202,756−1.9%
U.S. Decennial Census[9]

As of the 2000 United States Census,[10] there were 2,695 people, 980 households, and 686 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,743.9 inhabitants per square mile (673.3/km2). There were 1,022 housing units at an average density of 661.3 per square mile (255.3/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 98.89% White, 0.15% African American, 0.15% Native American, 0.22% Asian, 0.22% from other races, and 0.37% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.71% of the population.

There were 980 households, out of which 35.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.9% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.9% were non-families. 25.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 3.12.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 26.6% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 19.8% from 45 to 64, and 16.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $47,745, and the median income for a family was $55,286. Males had a median income of $36,406 versus $25,174 for females. The per capita income for the city was $21,730. About 1.6% of families and 3.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.1% of those under age 18 and 6.6% of those age 65 or over.

Education

[edit]
El Paso Gridley High School
Jefferson Park Elementary School
Centennial School
Prairie Christian School

El Paso's school district, CUSD #11,[11] is the product of a consolidation with the school district of Gridley, IL. CUSD #11's schools are split between El Paso and Gridley:[12]

  • El Paso Gridley High School - Housing all of the high school students for the district
  • El Paso Gridley Junior High School - Housing all of the upper and lower levels of junior high (grades 5, 6, 7, and 8) students for the district
  • Centennial School - Housing all the grade 3 and 4 elementary students of the district
  • Jefferson Park - Housing all the preschool, kindergarten, and grade 1 and 2 elementary students of the district

The educational landscape of El Paso, Illinois, has evolved significantly since the mid-19th century. In 1850, Reverend Abner Peeler taught the first school in Kansas Township near Zachariah Brown’s cabin.[7] By 1857, the town of El Paso had constructed its first schoolhouse, where Henry Hewitt served as the inaugural teacher.[13]

By 1859, the Illinois Central Railroad tracks divided the city into East and West sides, prompting the establishment of two rival school districts.[7] The East Side school, constructed in 1869 and completed in 1870, was later named McKinley School after President William McKinley’s assassination in 1901.[7][14]

Both schools initially offered two-year high school programs, with the East Side school graduating its first student, Julia Toussieng, in 1874.[13] By 1893, both schools had expanded their curricula to include four-year high school courses.[7] In 1910, the high school programs were consolidated at Jefferson Park, though the grade schools remained separate until 1944.[13]

El Paso Township High School District #375 was established in 1916 following voter approval, despite legal challenges that reached the Illinois Supreme Court.[7] A new brick high school was constructed in 1921, featuring modern amenities such as an auditorium and gymnasium.[14]

In 1948, El Paso Community Unit District #375 was formed, unifying the high school and grade school districts.[14] The district expanded to include outlying areas such as Secor and the Mackinaw River region near Carlock.[7] Rural schools, including many one-room schoolhouses, were consolidated, and students were transported by bus to centralized schools in El Paso.[7]

By March 2004, voters approved the merger of El Paso Unit #375 with Gridley Unit #10, creating El Paso-Gridley Community Unit School District 11.[15] This new district began operation on July 1, 2004, with the high school located in El Paso and the junior high in Gridley.[15] Today, the district serves students across Woodford, McLean, and Livingston counties, continuing a legacy of educational progress.[15]

Prairie Christian School located in El Paso was established in 1991 to provide a Christ-centered learning environment with high academic standards for students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The inaugural school year began with 10 students and two teachers, utilizing the original brick portion of the school building. Over the years, the school has expanded its facilities, including the addition of a gymnasium in 2002, to accommodate a growing student body and enhance educational offerings.[16]

Homeschooling families in El Paso have access to various resources and support networks. The El Paso District Library offers information on state requirements and connections to homeschooling groups.[17] The library also hosts homeschool events, fostering a supportive environment for home-educated students.

Culture

[edit]
El Paso Public Library
The Legacy Building

Attractions

[edit]

El Paso District Library

[edit]

The El Paso District Library in El Paso, Illinois, has a rich history dating back to 1873 when the Ladies' Library Association established a volunteer library in various locations throughout the town. In 1906, their efforts culminated in securing a grant from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, leading to the construction of a beautiful two-story library building[21].

The library has served the community for over a century, situated at the heart of town in Jefferson Park, conveniently located near the elementary, middle, and high schools. It has been a cornerstone for education and lifelong learning, offering books, services, and knowledge to all, and instilling a love of reading in citizens of all ages[21].

In 2010, the library began exploring the possibility of expanding its facilities to accommodate increased usage, a growing collection, and to provide greater accessibility. Fundraising efforts took place through 2012 and 2013, leading to the commencement of construction in 2013. The expanded library opened its doors on May 3, 2014, celebrated by hundreds of community members. This expansion was completed solely with grants and donations from the community[21].

The addition brought several improvements, including full accessibility, increased space for books and accessories, improved areas for public computers and technology, separate meeting spaces for library and community programs, quiet study rooms, and dedicated areas for the storage and display of El Paso's history. Notable rooms include the Edward and Marjory Heiken Children’s Room, the Lester Pfister History and Genealogy Room, and the Drake Family-Heartland Bank Community Room[21].

Today, the El Paso District Library remains a centerpiece and gathering place for the community, continuing its mission to promote education and lifelong learning.

The Legacy Building and Project XV Museum

[edit]

The Legacy Building, located at 1 West Front Street in El Paso, Illinois, was originally constructed in 1874 as the Eagle Block Building. This historic structure has served various purposes over the years, including housing the American Dairy Association, the First National Bank, and the city's opera house. In 1894, a devastating fire destroyed much of Front Street, including the original building. However, the vault of the First National Bank survived the blaze, allowing for the reconstruction of the building, which was completed in 1895.[22]

Today, the Legacy Building houses several local businesses, such as Can Do Kids International, Heirloom Photography, The Legacy Opera House, and Virginia Lee’s home decorating business. The building also features a restored opera house that accommodates up to 200 guests, making it a popular venue for weddings and special events.[22]

Adjacent to the Legacy Building is the Project XV Museum, dedicated to honoring the history of voting rights in the United States. The museum is named after the 15th Amendment, which granted African American men the right to vote. A significant exhibit focuses on David A. Strother, a local barber who, in 1870, became the first African American to vote in Illinois after the passage of the 15th Amendment. The museum aims to educate and empower communities by shedding light on the rich history of voting rights.[23]

The Legacy Building and the Project XV Museum together serve as important cultural and historical landmarks in El Paso, Illinois, preserving the town's rich heritage and promoting education on voting rights.

Notable people

[edit]
Fulton J. Sheen Birthplace Marker

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "2022 U.S. Gazetteer Files: Illinois". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 7, 2023.
  2. ^ a b U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: El Paso, Illinois
  3. ^ a b "P1. Race – El Paso city, Illinois: 2020 DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171)". U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved March 7, 2023.
  4. ^ Illinois Central Magazine. Illinois Central Railroad Company. 1922. p. 43.
  5. ^ Gannett, Henry (1905). The Origin of Certain Place Names in the United States. Govt. Print. Off. p. 118.
  6. ^ "History of Woodford County, Illinois" (PDF). Living History of Illinois. Retrieved December 27, 2024.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g h i Allen, Drake (1954). El Paso Story. El Paso Public Library Board. Retrieved December 27, 2024.
  8. ^ "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990". United States Census Bureau. February 12, 2011. Retrieved April 23, 2011.
  9. ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  10. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  11. ^ "El Paso - Gridley CUSD #11". www.unit11.org. Retrieved October 4, 2016.
  12. ^ "District Information". www.unit11.org. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
  13. ^ a b c "Woodford County Schools History". Genealogy Trails. Retrieved December 27, 2024.
  14. ^ a b c "El Paso School History". Leopard Fan. Retrieved December 27, 2024.
  15. ^ a b c "El Paso-Gridley Community Unit School District 11". El Paso-Gridley School District. Retrieved December 27, 2024.
  16. ^ "Prairie Christian School". Prairie Christian School. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
  17. ^ "Online Resources". El Paso District Library. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
  18. ^ "El Paso Public Library - National Register of Historic Places Registration Form" (PDF). June 29, 1994. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 5, 2016. Retrieved October 4, 2016.
  19. ^ Vlahos, Nick. "Two museums tell the tale of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen". Retrieved October 4, 2016.
  20. ^ "El Paso Golf Club - Home Page". www.elpasogolfclub.com. Retrieved October 4, 2016.
  21. ^ a b c d "Library History and Areas Available". El Paso District Library. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
  22. ^ a b "History". The Legacy Building. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
  23. ^ "Project XV Museum". Project XV Museum. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
  24. ^ "George 'Chick' Evans Bio". Northern Illinois University. Retrieved March 5, 2020.
  25. ^ Patricia A. Kossmann, "Remembering Fulton Sheen," America: The National Catholic Review, Dec. 6, 2004.
  26. ^ 'Illinois Blue Book 1933-1934,' Biographical Sketch of Clifford J. Vogelsang, pg. 194-195, 219
[edit]
  1. ^ Osman Topo Map in McLean County IL
  2. ^ "Osman, Illinois". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey, United States Department of the Interior.
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