Money Creek Illinois

A Murder in Money Creek, Illinois

In October 1876, the body of Albert Anglen was discovered in a field near Towanda, Illinois. Initially mistaken for a sleeping tramp, he was found dead with gunshot wounds and signs of blunt force trauma. Anglen, an upstanding young man from Grafton, W. Va., had letters in his pocket from a young lady in Colorado. Evidence suggested he was murdered by Karl Klusty, a colleague who stole from him. After several arrests yielded no suspects, Klusty was eventually apprehended in Bohemia.

Money Creek, Illinois Roads

In the early days of the settlement, Indian trails served as the primary roads, notably a significant path linking the Wabash and Illinois rivers. Subsequent roads established by settlers mirrored these routes, leading to a network that often diverged from section lines, especially in timbered areas. Key thoroughfares included the Lexington and Bloomington road and a road north from Towanda village. The origin of Money Creek’s name remains uncertain, with legends suggesting it relates to hidden wealth or a piece of money discovered by local Indians.

School History of Money Creek, Illinois

The first school in Money Creek, Illinois, was housed in a log structure built approximately 45 years ago. It featured minimal light sources and poor heating, leading to discomfort for students. Lindsey Scott was the initial teacher, managing around 12 to 15 pupils. Educational materials were scarce, with only a Testament and a spelling book commonly used. Over time, this log schoolhouse has been replaced by modern facilities, reflecting significant improvements in education, with current statistics indicating a well-supported school system.

Church History of Money Creek, Illinois

Isaac Messer, a local preacher of the United Brethren in Christ, initiated the first religious meetings in Money Creek around 1827 at Valentine Spawr’s home. In 1832, a society of United Brethren was formed, led by figures like Jacob Moats and Jesse Havens, with their first church built in 1856. The Methodists, represented early by Jacob Spawr, also formed an organization, building a church before relocating. The Christian Church, led by James Robinson since 1835, constructed their church in 1857. The United Brethren remain the largest denomination in the area.

Early Settlers of Money Creek, Illinois

Old Louis Soward, a jolly frontiersman from Ohio, exemplified the spirit of early pioneer life in Money Creek, Illinois. He was a skilled hunter and bee-tree locator, beloved for his storytelling. The Soward family arrived before other settlers, possibly around 1825. Other early inhabitants included Jacob Harness, Jacob Spawr, and the Moats family, who contributed significantly to the community. Over time, more families arrived, establishing vital social and economic structures, including the first post office under William G. Bishop in 1836.

History of Money Creek, Illinois

Money Creek Township, settled early in McLean County, lacks villages and a post office today, with only remnants of Clarksville. It lies in the northern tier of the county, bordered by Gridley, Lexington, Towanda, and Hudson Townships. The land is fertile, with rich timber and some prairies, crossed by Money Creek and Mackinaw Creek. Although towns never fully developed, the community built schools and mills, supporting local agriculture. The area contributed soldiers during the Civil War, reflecting its evolving political landscape from Democratic to a balance of parties.