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O’Fallon, Illinois is a small city with a big history. Located 16 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri, it is a city that is rich in history, with a story to tell. O’Fallon, known as one of the fastest-growing cities in Illinois, has come a long way since its founding in the early 19th century.
The city was named after John O’Fallon, a businessman and entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in the development of the area. Born in Kentucky in 1791, O’Fallon moved to St. Louis in 1820, where he established himself as a successful businessman. In 1837, he bought a large tract of land in the present-day city of O’Fallon and began developing it.
O’Fallon was a transportation hub in the early days, with many stagecoaches passing through on their way between St. Louis and Vincennes, Indiana. The town grew rapidly, and by 1850, it had become a significant stop on the Illinois Central Railroad, connecting it to other major cities.
One of the city’s key landmarks is the O’Fallon Station, which was built in 1904 and served as the city’s train station until the 1960s. The station was renovated in the 1990s and is now used as a community center and event space.
O’Fallon was also home to several Civil War training camps in the 1860s. In those days, soldiers were encamped in the area to prepare for their wartime service. Today, there are several historical markers located in the city that commemorate this period of time.
Another notable piece of O’Fallon’s history is the existence of Scott Air Force Base, located just outside the city limits. Scott Air Force Base was established in 1917, and it has played a significant role in the city’s growth.
The city is also home to the O’Fallon Historical Society, which is dedicated to preserving the area’s history. The society maintains a museum that showcases artifacts and photographs of the city’s past and hosts regular events to educate the community about the city’s history.
From its early days as a transportation hub to its role in the Civil War and the establishment of Scott Air Force Base, O’Fallon has a rich and varied history that is worth exploring. The city’s dedication to preserving its history through museums and programs makes it easy for visitors and residents alike to learn about its past and appreciate its present.
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