“Cycle into History” with the Mattoon Public Library Local History Center

For Immediate Release

MATTOON – With a theme of “see what was in our neighborhood,” an upcoming Saturday morning bike ride promoted by the Mattoon Public Library Local History Center combines a slow-paced bicycle ride with a fun look back at yesteryear.

“Cycle into History,” is scheduled for 10 a.m. June 18, beginning at the library, 1600 Charleston Avenue, then taking participants on a 90-minute, 5-mile route. Riders will make frequent stops along the way, stopping to share stories at significant places to Mattoon history.

This is the second historical bicycle ride led by history center volunteer curator Chris Suerdieck. This year’s ride goes east beginning along Broadway Avenue and covers the eastern part of Mattoon, including the Big Four roundhouse, downtown theaters, Meadow Gold dairy, Atlas Diesel plant, the Odd Fellow Home, historic homes on Wabash Avenue and points of interest in between. The first ride focused on northwest Mattoon.

The 6-room history center at the library will be open after the ride. The center has a variety of storyboards and related items that trace Mattoon’s rich heritage, including a recently opened Civil War display.

“People who visit the History Center often have good memories of a place they or a family member worked, a place where they hung out, a certain event or just smile about a favorite Mattoon memory,” Suerdieck said. “This ride takes participants for a first-hand look at some of the places discussed in those personal memories and other sites important to Mattoon development.

The format allows people to enjoy each other’s stories in an engaging, relaxing way.”

The history center in the library basement has been developed over nearly 5 years. It features Suerdieck’s original and ongoing research with library archives and memorabilia contributed by Suerdieck and others. Typically, first time visitors make a remark along these lines: “This is fantastic. I had no idea this was here. I need to come back and bring ….”

The library has supported the efforts by making available and remodeling the space to facilitate professional layout and easy access.