Marengo History window

Window to the past

Those interested in getting a sneak peek at Marengo history should stop by the former Levin's Dry Goods store, 212 S. State St. in Marengo,  through the end of October. McHenry County Historical Society volunteer and former intern Paige Giacomo of Spring Grove compiled a collection of images and artifacts for Settlers' Days.

In order to help celebrate the history of Marengo, I decided to focus on all the "firsts" in the first 100 years (1835-1935).  Such items showcased are:  Calvin Spencer, Marengo's first settler, the first store operated by Mr. Moody Bailey, the first post office, the first mill operated by the Smith brothers, the first band organized by LeRoy Spencer, the first bank, the first automobile purchased and much more.  Overall, this display is meant to commemorate some of the early events and the people who helped to build and establish the town of Marengo that residents know and love today.

- Paige Giacomo