ON THIS DAY in 1869 The Golden Spike is driven, completing the first US Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, connecting the Central Pacific Railroad with the Union Pacific
The West Franklin Historical District and Silkwood Inn Museum. The Annual Memorial Weekend BBQ Sale will take place on Saturday, May 24th and Sunday, May 25th 11:00 am to 2:00 each day. Choose from pork or chicken sandwiches, hotdogs, chips, desserts, a variety of sides & drinks. Find the more information on the West Franklin Historical District Facebook page.
The Fort de Chartres Rendezvous, a popular annual tradition in Randolph County, will take place June 7 and 8 at the Fort de Chartres State Historic Site. Rendezvous hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 7, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 8. Highlights include a flintlock muzzleloader shooting competition; period food, drink, and entertainment; artisan and craft demonstrations; 18th-century children’s games; militia and military events; and more. The Rendezvous is free and open to the public.
Join University of Illinois Extension for the 2025 Summer Twilight Series, a tradition in southern Illinois. U of I extension brings farmers, educators, and community members together to explore the diversity and innovation of local agriculture. Held once a month from May through August, each meeting will feature a different farm or direct-market outlet, showcasing a range of production methods and marketing strategies. The program will kick off on May 19 at 6 p.m. at The Flock Farm in Anna to explore poultry processing and tour their farm market. To learn more or register, visit www.go.illinois.edu/twilightseries or call 618-695-2441. 2025 Summer Twilight Series. There is no cost to attend these in-person programs, but registration is required.
May 19, 2025 - The Flock Farm, 460 McDuffee Ln., Anna, IL 62906 - poultry processing and tour of their farm market
June 16, 2025 - Weiler Enterprises Inc., Dairy Farm, Claremont, IL - dairy farm operations
July 17, 2025 - Dixon Springs Agricultural Center, Simpson, IL - high tunnel vegetable production and biological insect control
August - date and location to be announced
