Spring 2013 in Downtown Decatur 2

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N&W Explosion 1974

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On July 19, 1974, a massive explosion leveled the N&W (Norfolk & Western) railyard in the heart of Decatur.  Neighborhoods around the explosion site were heavily damaged, including Lakeview High School. The blast was reportedly heard as far away as 30 miles. (photos from Herald and Review archives) Lakeview High School To read more about the explosion: " Death Before Dawn ", a research project by Millikin student Laura Voyles Text of Associated Press article detailing the incident National Transportation Safety Board's " Railroad Accident Report " for the event
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Ronald Reagan Visits Decatur

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statue at ADM headquarters in Decatur, commemorating Reagan's 1984 visit Ronald Reagan was in Decatur at least 4 times during his life... the only U.S. President known to have visited that many times. As president in 1984, he flew into Decatur Airport on Air Force One and visited Archer Daniels Midland Company and Millikin University.    Previous to that, he visited in 1977 for a Republican fundraiser, in 1955 as a spokesman for General Electric, and in 1929 during his sophomore season as a starting right guard for the Eureka College Red Devils football team. 1955 with Decatur Mayor Sablotny Reagan on campus of Millikin University (1955) 1984, with Decatur Mayor Gary Anderson & Illinois Governor Jim Thompson THANKS TO DEBBIE ANDERSON EDWARDS FOR THE NEXT 3 PHOTOS: at Millkin University, 1984;  future State Senator Duane Noland is in dark suit (next in line) TEXT OF REAGAN'S SPEECH AT DECATUR AIRPORT 8/20/1984: ...
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Decatur Baseball: Fans Field and More

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Here's a collection of photos from Decatur's baseball past, starting with the Commodores and Fans Field (1927-1974).  Fans Field was located on the southeast corner of Garfield and Woodford Streets. demolition in 1975 Fans Field Today..... looking northeast towards 2nd base looking southeast towards home plate looking northwest towards home plate And don't forget there was also baseball played on Staley Field (1915-1923): It is believed that the field was located on the northwest corner of Eldorado and 22nd Streets, near where the Staley Viaduct is today.
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