Category Archives: Red Chair

Jonesboro Lincoln-Douglas Debate

The debate was held on the Jonesboro Fairgrounds on September 15, 1858. Douglas, who chose the locations for the debates, picked this tiny town because he figured that Lincoln’s views on the expansion of slavery would get him in trouble … Continue reading

Posted in Presidential Sites, Red Chair | Comments Off on Jonesboro Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Burger King?

In 1957, Gene and Betty Hoots opened a hamburger joint in Mattoon, Illinois and called it Burger King. On the advice of a lawyer, they registered the name and became the legal owners of “Burger King.” They were surprised when, … Continue reading

Posted in Food, Red Chair | Comments Off on Burger King?

Big, Rotting Colonial Guy (on the left)

This guy has been sitting outside a furniture store on Route 25 in St. Charles, Illinois, for at least 20 years. But he won’t last much longer if he doesn’t get some medical attention soon. His left leg is rotten … Continue reading

Posted in Red Chair | 1 Comment

There’s a New Sheriff in Town

It was only a matter of time before I brought my two greatest antique store purchases together. Each of them cost me $10 — is that a couple of bargains or what? I had to laugh at myself as I … Continue reading

Posted in Red Chair | 2 Comments

Red Chair at Night …

The sun really was this color late on Memorial Day eve. I drove to one of the highest spots in town, set the chair on top of my car, backed up about 30 yards and waited for the sun to … Continue reading

Posted in Red Chair | 3 Comments