•July 1, 2026•

by Sharon Barricklow

Is your shrubbery looking jagged? Is your garden not producing? Are their hoof prints in the mud and something on the ground bigger than any dog business? If so, you may have been visited by Moultrie County’s resident deer.

Believe it or not, in 1900 the white tail deer population in Illinois was virtually extinct. Obviously, in the last 126 years that has changed, with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources estimating the state’s deer population at 660,000 in 2025. Moultrie County doesn’t have the largest deer population, that honor goes to Joe Davies County, but in 344 square mile Moultrie County, more than 700 are harvested annually during hunting season.

•July 1, 2026•

Submitted by Tonya Frevert

MCHGS Publicity Chair

Have you been to the Moultrie County History Center yet? Founded in 1973, the Moultrie County Historical and Genealogical Society is a nonprofit volunteer organization that strives to bring together people of all ages interested in the history and genealogy of Moultrie County and central Illinois. In addition to our library and museum, we host monthly public programs to illustrate the history of the area and its people. Our programs showcase the variety of stories and lived experiences that our diverse community has to share with one another. 

Most recently, our June program showcased the history of local radio in Moultrie County. Moultrie County natives Larry Oathout and Scot England recounted the creation of Sullivan radio station WFWA in 1974, tracing its journey through multiple owners and name changes over the years. While recalling some of the notable on-air radio personalities—such as Gerald “Griz” England—Scot and Larry shared humorous recollections of their own journeys working in small-town radio and highlighted the rewards and challenges, both past and present.

•June 24, 2026•

On Tuesday, June 16th, the YA group came together at the Elizabeth Titus Memorial Library to create tile coasters. Using Sharpies, isopropyl alcohol, air, and fire, the YA group had a blast watching how their colored designs on the tile transformed each step of the project. From the original Sharpie colored designs on the tiles to the placement of the alcohol, using air to direct the colors, to the firing, each piece transformed in beautifully unpredictable ways. There were smiles, laughter, and excited exchanges of ideas as the YA group worked together, each trying to predict what their final tile coaster would look like. Once ‘fired’, all of the tiles were sprayed with a durable sealant, making them ready to serve as coasters, making great gifts and keepsakes. The project was a resounding success, thoroughly enjoyed by all. To stay current with the many events offered at ETML for all age groups (of which there are many), visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082637979457.

by DM Williamee

On Saturday, June 13th, from the parking lot of the Sullivan American Legion to the far end of Wyman Park, one could find something in motion: from the early 5k run, raffles, bake sales, car show, to the Kids Korner (with some impressive, well-used, and appreciated bounce houses), kids pedal pulls, food on offer from vendors, live music and the new dunk tank, there was not a dull corner to be found. When the dunk tank opened to a line of waiting kiddos, Mrs. Becker got in, ready to be dunked for a good cause. The first ball thrown was by Jasper Rhodes, 6, who hit the mark and dunked Mrs. Becker right at the start, and then two more times before throwing all six. This set the tone moving forward, with a surprising number of hits/dunks from the youngsters, and a good-natured Mrs. Becker laughingly said, “It’s all for a good cause!” All proceeds raised at the 2-day event will be donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Last year, $32,338 was donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Photos by DM Williamee