In the late 1950’s and early 1960’s Peoria was on the precipice of major change and growth. The Murray Baker Bridge had just been dedicated and Peoria was preparing to build a new County Courthouse. Peoria was a city that had pledged itself to progress. The 20 minute film Peoria Pledged to Progress was released by the City of Peoria in the early 1960's and was used to promote the forward thinking Peoria of over a half century ago. Peoria Pledged to Progress features many images from Peoria's dow

"The site of old Peoria. A European settlement in the Illinois Country was established by the French at or near this place in the winter of 1691 - '92." | Peoria Public Library - Local History Collection