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Decatur, Illinois

Located in Macon County, Illinois, Decatur was established in 1829. The Chicago Bears started as the Decatur Staleys in 1919. Lincoln was first nominated for president at the 1860 Republican convention here.
Founded 1829 | Population 69,000 | Peak 69,000 (2024) | County Macon County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Decatur, Illinois

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1829Founded: Named for Stephen Decatur.
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1860Lincoln Convention: Lincoln nominated for president here.
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1922Staley's: A.E. Staley company; birthplace of Chicago Bears.
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2010Modern Era: Decatur continued to develop as part of the region, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Latest News in Decatur

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Complete Historical Timeline

1829 Culture
Founded
1860 Politics
Lincoln Convention
1922 Sports
Staley's
2010 Culture
Modern Era

Did You Know?

1
The Chicago Bears started as the Decatur Staleys in 1919.
2
Lincoln was first nominated for president at the 1860 Republican convention here.
3
ADM (Archer Daniels Midland) has major operations in Decatur.
4
Decatur is located in Macon County, Illinois.
5
Decatur was founded in 1829.
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