GPS Coordinates:
N 41.34159; W 89.01024
Site Access:
Free; Fee
Handicap Accessible
Parking
Amenities: Information; Restrooms; Hiking; Biking; Fishing; Camping; Overnight Accommodations; Picnic; Dining; Visitors Center
Directions:
From I 80 at Ottawa, take Exit 90 and go south on SR 23 for 1.5 miles to the intersection of US 6. Turn west (right) onto US 6 and follow it 9.2 miles to SR 178. Turn south (left) on SR 178 for approximately 2 miles to the Village of Utica.
Description:
The original village of Utica grew along the north bank of the Illinois River near the site of the Native American village, Kaskaskia. However, with the construction of the Illinois & Michigan Canal in the 1830s and the regular flooding, businesses and residents relocated closer to the new waterway. This area was called North Utica, which is the proper name of the present village. With the completion of the I&M Canal, North Utica began to grow through the exploitation of clay, St. Peters sand and hydraulic limestone. Brick making also became an important early industry of North Utica because of valuable clay and sand deposits. This history of Utica and the surrounding region can be studied at the LaSalle County Historical Museum housed in the former I&M Canal warehouse in the heart of the village. Visitors can also enjoy garden walks in June.
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456 Fulton Street, Suite 300, Peoria, IL 61602 - 1 (800) 747-0302
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