Farm fields and forest surround the small town of Beckemeyer, Illinois, which is located in the heart of Clinton County. Like many of the towns around here, it is steeped in history and constantly evolving.
Painting by Carol Archer; located on building on Lewis Street
The first residents arrived in Beckemeyer about 200 years ago, in 1817. A few decades later, the town became a way station on the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad route from Cinncinatti to St. Louis. But coal is what really defined Beckemeyer. A large seam was discovered underlying the village and area and a vibrant mining culture began here in 1894. 50-some years late, however, heartbreak struck the town. A violent explosion in 1947 trapped 142 miners. Only 31 survived the ordeal. Joseph Koch was one of them, his body found kneeling in prayer among his co-workers. Visitors can view a memorial to these men, the Coal Miner’s Monument, on Louis Street.
The old train depot at BCDC park, now being restored
Beckemeyer is proud of its community spirit and touts two well-used public parks. A host of activities are held there and throughout the town all year long. From euchre tournaments and wurstmarts to soft ball tournaments and car shows, locals and visitors can enjoy a delightful assortment of amusements. Some of the most popular involve food, of course! And speaking of food, a highlight of fall in Beckemeyer are apples from Taphorn Orchard, where apple picking is a family tradition.
Below are a few of Beckemeyer’s upcoming spring and summer events. All are fun times to visit and see first-hand what a great little town it is.
Beckemeyer Fire Department’s 100-Year Anniversary Picnic
Saturday, May 20, 2017
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
BCDC park, 3rd and Murray Street, Beckemeyer, IL
Enjoy a parade, live music, fireworks, kids activities, food and more!
St. Anthony’s Parish Picnic
Saturday, June 24, 2017
451 West Third Street, Beckemeyer, IL
618-227-8236
Festivities start late afternoon with chicken and mostaccioli dinner, Mass, quilt bingo, and games.
Photo: Leroy Miller
Little Pig Cookoff
Saturday, August 26, 2017
BCDC Park, 3rd and Murray Street, Beckemeyer, IL
Opening ceremonies at noon
A fun-filled day of smokin’ hot pork competitions, cupcake wars, a cardboard boat race, and music.
Clinton County is filled with great communities just like this one—and every one would love to have you visit!