Points of Interest
Discover the remarkable stories of people, places, art, and events of historical relevance within Macon County that highlight the strength, resilience, and contributions of African Americans.
Our Points of Interest are brief histories that showcase the significant people, places, artworks, and events that tell the story of African American heritage in Central Illinois. Each entry represents a chapter in our shared history, from pioneering educators and civic leaders to monuments, murals, and institutions that served as cornerstones of the community.
Historical information researched by Mark Sorensen • Images by Isaiah Bradford
Samuel J. Bush Lynching Marker
African-American Cultural & Genealogical Society of Illinois Museum
Resources and education on the history of the African American.
Horace G. Livingston, Jr. Memorial Tribute
Horace was the co-founder of the Local Association for Black Action, where he helped create The Voice newspaper in 1967.
Sheriff Roger Walker, Jr. Mural
In November 1998, Roger was elected the first Black sheriff in Illinois history
Ellsworth Dansby, Jr. Magnet School
Site of the first historical marker on the Macon County African American Heritage Trail
Judge James B. Parsons School
The first Black federal judge to receive a life-time appointment.
Dr. John C. Ellis Lodge F & AM
After moving to Decatur in 1915, John became the first Black doctor in Macon County
George Washington Carver Bronze Sculpture
A formerly enslaved orphan, Carver became an American agricultural scientist and inventor who taught for many years at Tuskegee Institute.
U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves Bronze Sculpture
Bass Reeves, 1838–1910, was an American police officer and the first Black Deputy Marshal west of the Mississippi River.
