Monday, May 24, 2010

The Defining Symbol of Albion, IL

I recently conducted a poll on the defining symbol of America. The American Flag overwhelming defeated the Statue of Liberty and the Bald Eagle. But as the results came back to me, I began to wonder what the consensus would be on the defining symbol of Albion, IL. My hometown in Southern Illinois takes up just 2.2 square miles and contains all of 2,000 people. And though Albion resides in the second smallest county in the state, the town’s history rises above all others. Its memorable landmarks shed light not only on the town’s past, but on American small town life in general. It might be tough if you’ve never been here (and if you haven’t…consider a road trip). But, if you had to pick a defining symbol of the town to put on a postcard what would it be? The decision is harder than you might think…


The Courthouse-A timeless beauty, anchored in the center of the town. The clock tower was recently renovated. One of the oldest courthouses in the state of Illinois, it captures the spirit of small town life.


The Pagoda-Originally constructed to protect the downtown well, the pagoda has stood at the corner of Main and 5th Streets for nearly a century.


Albion Public Library-The oldest public library in the state of Illinois was established in 1819. It has resided at its current location, at the intersection of Main and 4th Streets, since 1922.


Brick Streets-The brick industry of Albion dates back to 1819, just one year after Illinois became a state. The Albion Shale Brick company was incorporated in 1900. Fourteen blocks of the historic brick streets remain in Albion.


Water Tower-There’s not much of a skyline to Albion (other than this landmark and the McDonalds sign), but for decades this tower has welcomed patrons to our beloved city.


Stewart & Son Store-It represents every little small town shop that ever existed in America. Though the store has not sold groceries in more than a decade, you can still find antiques in this relic.
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3 comments:

  1. UnknownApril 9, 2011 at 8:49 PM

    Thanks for the insight into the symbols of Albion! As I am from Fairfield, I did not know all the history behind these symbols.

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  2. MartyJuly 17, 2013 at 9:23 AM

    The water tower pictured has since been torn down and replaced with a new modern version about a block north of the old one's location. If you like the American Flag you absolutely MUST see the Flag display at the courthouse. It is a sight to behold, just beautiful! The entire courthouse square and sidewalks are lined with memorial flags. Each one has a name on the pole dedicating it to a veteran. The display is set up at various patriotic holidays during the year. You will be hard pressed to find a better display in a small town anywhere!

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  3. AnonymousNovember 12, 2013 at 9:29 AM

    I lived in Albion from 1952-1962. As a child growing up in Albion I remember the fair grounds the most, maybe because it was right next to the old grade school. I remember standing in line at the fair to get Albion "chowder" . The best times were always related to going someone else, though, like Fairfield, Mt.Carmel or once a year to the circus in Evansville. Not Greyville, though. That muddy Wabash water scared me.

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