Bloomington, IL
Music connected to Bloomington
About Bloomington
- • Adlai Stevenson II, former Vice President, presidential candidate, and diplomat, was from Bloomington.
- • Beer Nuts, the popular glazed peanuts, originated in Bloomington in 1937.
- • The intersection of two major rail lines made it an important transportation hub.
- • Legend says a golden spike was driven to mark the end of the first Illinois Central Railroad line.
- • A devastating fire in 1900 destroyed much of downtown Bloomington.
- • Named for its 'grove of flowers,' Bloomington was established in 1831.
- • With 78,680 residents, it's the 12th most populous city in Illinois.
- • Bloomington sits 801 feet above sea level, offering slightly elevated views.
- • Insurance and agriculture are major employers in Bloomington-Normal.
- • Bloomington emanates a comforting sense of Midwestern charm and community.
- • The St. Louis Cardinals, 2 hours away, represent the closest Major League Baseball team.
- • Illinois Wesleyan University's basketball team won the NCAA Division III championship in 1997.