1969
The City Building on the square was demolished in 1969, a significant demarcation line between the past and present when it comes to Washington Square imagery.
One of the last photos of the City Building
In the 1969 Mayoral election, Robert Hult easily defeated incumbent Wallace Asbury.
Tazewell County Reporter July 24, 1969: "Mankind and the Washington Park Board had something in common this week. They both took giant steps. Man took his first walk on the moon and the Park Board officially purchased the George Heyl Estate property..." This property would become Washington Park.
Ray Abernathy announced his resignation as WCHS superintendent, replaced by Ray Torry.
The first steam show on the Dick Herm farm was held June 28 & 29, 1969. The show would continue into the mid 1980s.
During the 1969-1970 school year, Washington Community High School broke new ground by accepting a Black student teacher. Tony Cook from Eureka College did his student teaching at WCHS during that school year, also helping coach some teams.
The widening of Route 24 to four-lanes from Bondurant to Westlake was begun in 1969.
The Tazewell Theatre permanently closes its doors. The last movie shown was "The Horse in the Gray Flannel Suit."
In 1969 John Bearce purchased the Ford Dealership from Buck Strode.
The first "Miss Washington" pageant is held, won by 17-year-old Donna Douglas, who was also named Miss Heart of Illinois.
The new City Hall at 115 West Jefferson St. was dedicated October 19, 1969.
