| "Site of
Fort Creve Coeur —The stone marker, shown above, was erected by the Peoria
Chapter of the D.A.R. in 1902 after a thorough historical research, to commemorate the
building of the first fort and crude log cabin in this part of the North West Territory.
It was built by LaSalle, and his followers, in the winter of 1680. The fort was made of
logs 25 feet long, which doubtless stood 20 feet above ground. It was banked-up on the
outside with earth and loop-holed, through which his little force could fire upon any
savage invaders. It stood on the high bluff overlooking what today is Wesley City, in the
northeast corner of Pekin Township, Tazewell County. The original photo was taken by H. H.
Cole, veteran photographer, and the north wall of the fort and cabin were drawn by the
publisher of this volume. Two pioneers of this county, who have passed to the Great
Beyond, are shown: Wm. F. Copes at the left and James Haines "Uncle Jimmie," at
the right of the marker." |
