Decatur, IL
Music connected to Decatur
About Decatur
- • Actress Alison Brie, known for "Community," was born in Decatur.
- • The Princess Bride Butterscotch ice cream flavor originated at Decatur's Krekel's Custard.
- • Decatur became a vital transportation hub with the arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad.
- • Legend says a Decatur theater is haunted by a former stagehand.
- • The Great Depression dramatically impacted Decatur, causing widespread unemployment and hardship.
- • Named in 1829 for naval hero Stephen Decatur, it was incorporated in 1836.
- • With around 70,000 residents, it is smaller than Springfield, the state capital.
- • Decatur sits at 679 feet above sea level, offering relatively flat terrain.
- • Agriculture and manufacturing drive Decatur's economy, particularly ADM's presence.
- • Decatur feels like a hardworking community with strong ties to its agricultural heritage.
- • The St. Louis Cardinals, a few hours away, won the World Series in 2011.
- • Decatur's Millikin University basketball team won the NCAA Division III championship in 2005.