1872
On October 21 Adlai E. Stevenson I appeared in Washington for a political speech. Then one of the most prominent attorneys in Illinois, Stevenson would go on to serve as Vice-President of the United States from 1893-1897 under President Grover Cleveland. He also made two unsuccessful runs at the Presidency in 1896 and 1900
On October 31 William M. Springer arrived in Washington for a speaking engagement, running for a spot in the Illinois Assembly. He would win and serve ten terms ending in 1895.
The death of Major Richard N. Cullom of Washington made news across the State of Illinois.
A tremendous storm hit the area in June, causing significant damage to houses, barns, bridges, and railroads. The barn of James Wright was destroyed by lightning, taking with it five horses, twelve tons of hay, 1000 bushels of wheat, and his entirety of wagons and harnesses.