Illinois Statehood Day

Illinois became the 21st state on December 3, 1818. Illinois was the first state in the U.S. to ratify the Constitution's 13th amendment which abolished slavery. The first McDonald's was built in Des Plaines, IL. Birthplace of Modern Architecture. The Sears Tower or Willis Tower in Chicago is the tallest building in America. The Willis Tower is considered a seminal achievement for engineer Fazlur Rahman Khan. Illinois produces more nuclear energy than any other state in the country.

Illinois State Soil – drummer silty clay loam.

Illinois State Dance – square dance.

Illinois State Snack – popcorn.

Illinois State Fruit – goldrush apple.

Illinois State Tartan – Illinois Saint Andrew Society Tartan.

Illinois State Vegetable – sweet corn.

Illinois State Pie – pumpkin pie.

Illinois State Exercise – cycling.

Illinois State Pet – shelter dogs and shelter cats.

Illinois State Microbe – Penicillium rubens.

Illinois State Grain – corn.

Illinois State Artifact – pirogue.

Illinois State Theatre – The Great American People Show.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville is the location of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico.