Ephemera from Illinois

If you follow any of my other blogs, you probably already know that I visit my relatives in (very) rural Illinois just about every year.  One of my favorite things to do there is sift thorough the random bits of paper in antique stores, or even in one of my grandparent's houses.  No one throws ANYTHING away there.  Here are a few of my treasured finds.

Might have been a slightly intimidating ride in his car

Chicago was home to both the 1893 World's Fair (Grand Columbain Exhibition) and the 1933 World's Fair.  This envelope with a letter was sent from the fair to someone at home.  The letter was written on a single, long sheet of paper and the illustrations were hand-drawn. 

Beautiful Art Deco design

Going to Illinois Soon!

It is almost time for me to escape the sweltering Southern sun for a summer with lightning bugs, a sky brimming with stars, and gardens full of deliciousness.  Every year we go up to visit relatives in time to enjoy the annual county fair -- on the same fairgrounds since 1888.

In honor of the impending trip, here are some of my favorite photos over the years.

Candy Kitchen, Greenup, IL

4H fowl judging

Thoroughbred racing

Canned goods

Harness racing

Moonshine, Illinois

Will Rogers Theater in Charleston, Illinois

Yoyo ride, Cumberland County Fair

If you want to see more from our trips to Illinois, check out A Week In Rural Illinois.