Time Was

Although Wilmington had a thirty years head start, Braidwood began life on the run and soon the two towns were “friendly” rivals. Braidwood had certain advantages. More money was made and spent in one week there when the mines were open than in three weeks in Wilmington. Braidwood had a disadvantage too, such as the frequent strikes. And of course, the many murders in Braidwood didn't help much.

Most of us have some special thing that we are good at. For some it might be driving, or teaching, or selling or even writing. There is a special class of people who are good at dealing with other people. Some of these are entertainers, bartenders, hotel keepers, and those who work in restaurants. That was the kind of guy John Broadbent was, all of the above.

There have been at least three books written about the history of Will County. In each of them you will find a list of prominent citizens that the author felt really made a difference in the building of our community. Today we will look at the Haydens, who in W. W. Stevens book, Past and Present of Will County, published in 1907, were identified as one of the most influential families in the Wilmington area.
The Haydens were settlers of Florence Township, and by the beginning of the 20th century had acquired huge amounts of some of the best farming land to be had anywhere.

Our usual look at 100 years ago this month has been altered. It seems that only one edition from July of 1921 exists, so we are looking back 101 years. We start with the Wilmington Booster Club's Community Picnic. Don't worry about the weather and bring your appetite.
In 1920 the Island was not the well-manicured place it is today. It was still in its natural state with only a few areas cleared for the use of the public. It was declared the prettiest natural park in the State. And in summer it was also where it was all happening.