The First Hundred Years, 1835–1935: Historical Review of Blue Island, Illinois is John Henry Volp’s comprehensive account of his hometown’s evolution from a pioneer settlement to a thriving city. Born and raised in Blue Island, Volp (1868–1938) devoted many years to gathering documents, newspaper clippings, photographs, and personal recollections of early settlers and local residents. Spurred on by the community’s centennial celebration in 1935, he compiled this material to provide both a detailed historical record and an engaging narrative of Blue Island’s development.
Although Volp’s work was cut short by his untimely death in 1938, his manuscript was published shortly thereafter at the behest of his family. Organized into three main periods—covering the earliest settlers, the village era, and the city form of government—the book chronicles the challenges, triumphs, and growth of Blue Island. It also features a biographical section, photographs, and valuable primary-source references, preserving the city’s heritage for future generations.
Table of Contents
- Centuries Before the Days of Courtney and Rexford, p. 9
- Father Marquette’s Journey, p. 12
- Blue Island on Historic Ground, p. 14
- A Picture of the Past, p. 15
The Pioneer Period, 1835-1872, p. 17
From the earliest days of settlement to the time of incorporation as a village.
- Why the Name “Blue Island,” p. 18
- The First White Settlers, p. 19
- Reminiscences, p. 78
- War Time Affairs, p. 89
- Family Histories, p. 93
- Brief Biographical Sketches, p. 98
Under Village Government, 1897-1901, p. 121
Launched under many misgivings, beset by financial worries and troublesome problems, the later years bring wonderful improvement and growth to the community.
- Village Affairs, p. 123
- Roster of Village Officials, p. 1872-1901
- Railroads, p. 149
City Form of Government, 1901-1935
Divided originally into five wards and ten aldermen the city in 1935 comprised seven wards and fourteen aldermen.
- City Council Notes, p. 163
- Industries, p. 184
- Churches, p. 197
- Schools, p. 215
- Clubs and Societies, p. 223
- Fraternal Orders, p. 233
- Theatres and Picture Houses, p. 242
- Financial, p. 244
- Newspaper History, p. 251
- Blue Island Fire Department, p. 264
- Printing and Publishing, p. 301
- City Hall, p. 303
- Blue Island Police Department, p. 308
- The World War, p. 321
- Roster of City Officials, 1901-1935
- Centennial Celebration, p. 355
- Necrology, p. 371
- Index, p. 383
Source
Volp, John H., The first hundred years, 1835-1935: historical review of Blue Island, Illinois, Blue Island, Illinois, 1938.