William Holland founded Washington in 1825

Click here for his story

William Holland came from Fort Clark (Peoria) and founded Washington in 1825. He built a cabin in the wooded area near a spring to the southwest of what is today St. Mark’s Church.

William Holland supported himself as a blacksmith for Native Americans and settlers.

William Holland was successful and built a home near the current intersection of South Main and West Holland Street.

Other settlers started arriving in 1826.

Washington Centennial Celebration

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