6 Cool Facts About Pecatonica, Illinois

Pecatoninca may be a small town, but it's packed with history—and now a state championship title. Whether you're here because you've always loved local history or because you just Googled "Pecatonica" after hearing about their big win, welcome.

Here are six things you should know about this little town with a big story.

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6 Cool Facts About Pecatonica, Illinois

1. Pecatonica wasn't always called that

The area was first referred to by Native American settlers as peeketolika, meaning "crooked river." The name Pecatonica also has Algonquin roots, combining Bekaa (or Pekaa in some dialects), meaning "slow," and Niba, meaning "water"—which makes sense since the Pecatonica River forms the town's northern border.

2. The village was originally owned by Native Americans

In 1845, President James K. Polk deeded just over 56 acres of what was then considered "Indian Territory"—now downtown Pecatonica—to the Reed family. Dan and Polly Reed, who called the town Peckatonick, were the first to lay out the roads and lots.

3. Pecatonica was sold for $1,500

In 1852, the Reeds sold the town for a whopping $1,500 to investors who had a little inside information—a railroad was coming through with a water stop along the river. That railroad boom is why Pecatonica has the name it does today.

4. The railroad sparked a population boom

Even though he sold the town, Dan Reed stuck around and built the Pecatonica House. He and his business partner, A.J. Smith, opened a dry goods store that catered to railroad workers. The railroad began operations in 1853, and the town's population grew so quickly that Pecatonica was incorporated in 1869. By 1880, Main Street was bustling with businesses, and the town's first bank had already opened in 1873.

5. In 1900, Pecatonica was the place to get drunk

At the turn of the 20th century, Pecaronica was the only "wet" town in Winnebago County. With Rockford and other nearby towns going dry, people would hop on the electric streetcar and head straight to Pecatonica to quench their thirst. Officials even extended drinking hours to a very responsible 9:30 p.m.—because nothing questionable ever happens before 10, right?

6. Pecatonica just made sports history

For the first time, a Pecatonica high school team has won a state championship! The 2024/2025 Pecatonica Lady Indians basketball team brought home the IHSA Class 1A title, making history and putting the town on the map in a whole new way.

Considering how rare it is for a town of this size to claim a state title, this is a moment to celebrate. So, raise a glass (probably before 9:30 p.m.), ring the victory bells, and let's hear it for the champs!

Source: Wikipedia

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