7 Surprising Oddities About Decatur, Il

In the heart of Macon County, Decatur, Illinois, is a city often described as the Soybean Capital of the World. Yet, beyond its agricultural accolades, Decatur harbors a collection of oddities and lesser-known facts that might surprise even the most seasoned locals. From unique natural phenomena to historical oddities, let's delve into the peculiar facets of this central Illinois community.

The Giant Cow of Decatur

Decatur's most visible oddity is undoubtedly the giant fiberglass cow situated at Scovill Zoo. Named "Elsie", this sculpture is an homage to the dairy industry, standing over 30 feet tall.

• History: Elsie was installed in the 1970s to draw visitors to the area.
• Significance: Beyond being a quirky landmark, it represents the agricultural heritage of Decatur.

<p class="pro-note">🐄 Pro Tip: Visit Elsie early in the morning when the park is quieter, allowing for the best photo ops.</p>

The World's Only Drive-Thru Oil Museum

Less than a decade ago, an unconventional museum was set up in Decatur, aiming to showcase the history and significance of the petroleum industry:

• Location: It's right on Route 51, welcoming travelers to pull through its drive-thru exhibit.
• Exhibits: Visitors can see a range of oil history artifacts, from vintage gas pumps to historical photos and memorabilia.

This drive-thru experience not only caters to history enthusiasts but also symbolizes Decatur's pivotal role in the oil industry.

<p class="pro-note">🚗 Pro Tip: Time your visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personalized experience.</p>

The Decatur Christmas Lights Extravaganza

Every holiday season, Decatur transforms into a winter wonderland with:

• Spectacular Lights: Streets and parks are adorned with an array of festive lights and decorations.
• Community Effort: The event brings residents together to create one of the most spectacular Christmas light shows in Illinois.

Tips for Visitors:

• Bring a Camera: The setup is perfect for capturing memorable photos.
• Dress Warmly: Remember, Decatur winters can be quite chilly!

<p class="pro-note">🌟 Pro Tip: Early evening is the best time to see the lights before it gets too crowded.</p>

The Infamous Decatur Stink

Locals and visitors alike have noted a peculiar smell in Decatur. Often referred to as the "Decatur Stink", it comes from:

• ADM Plant: The Archer Daniels Midland Company, a large agricultural processing plant in Decatur, is often blamed for this distinctive odor.
• Environmental Impact: The community has engaged in various initiatives to mitigate these effects.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Check Wind Direction: On certain days, the smell can be stronger depending on the wind.
• Community Watch: There are community-led environmental groups monitoring the issue.

The St. Mary’s Catholic Church Fire Miracle

In 1920, Decatur experienced what some call a miracle when:

• The Event: A fire ravaged St. Mary’s Catholic Church, but the altar and its sacred elements remained untouched amidst the inferno.
• Legacy: This event has been etched into local lore, with many attributing the preservation to divine intervention.

Underground Decatur

Beneath the bustling city streets, Decatur hides an entire network of tunnels and caves:

• History: These were used historically for various purposes, including shelter during wars and as hideouts for bootleggers during Prohibition.
• Current Use: Today, some are closed to the public due to safety concerns, but guided tours occasionally delve into this underground world.

Advanced Techniques for Exploration:

• Join a Guided Tour: Some historical societies offer tours into the accessible parts of these tunnels.
• Photography: Underground exploration is a unique opportunity for photographers.

<p class="pro-note">🕳 Pro Tip: Always go with a guide to ensure safety and gain deeper historical insights.</p>

The Abraham Lincoln Connection

Decatur played a pivotal role in Lincoln's life:

• 1860 Republican Convention: The Illinois State Republican Convention was held in Decatur, where Lincoln was nominated for president for the first time.
• Legacy: Decatur honors Lincoln with various monuments and events, particularly during Presidents Day weekend.

Important Notes:

• Visit Lincoln Square: Here you'll find monuments and a replica of the "Lincoln Railsplitter" statue.

<p class="pro-note">📜 Pro Tip: Plan your visit around Presidents Day for the best chance to experience Lincoln-themed events.</p>

Wrapping Up Your Journey Through Odd Decatur

From a giant cow to underground tunnels, Decatur, Illinois, offers a plethora of unique experiences and stories that go beyond its agricultural fame. While exploring these oddities, you'll find that this town is rich with history, community spirit, and unexpected attractions. Whether it's the driving through the World’s Only Drive-Thru Oil Museum or witnessing the magic of the Christmas Lights Extravaganza, Decatur invites you to look beneath its surface. Dive into local history, engage with the community, and let these oddities of Decatur surprise and delight you.

Consider this an invitation to explore Decatur through these unusual lenses, perhaps venturing into related topics like Illinois' other historical towns or agricultural innovation in the Midwest.

<p class="pro-note">🌽 Pro Tip: Stay updated on community events and consider visiting during local festivals to get the fullest experience of what Decatur has to offer.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is there a fee to visit Elsie, the giant cow?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>No, admission to Scovill Zoo, where Elsie resides, is free with a park permit.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I participate in reducing the Decatur Stink?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You can join or support local environmental initiatives, or even advocate for better industrial practices.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I explore Decatur's tunnels on my own?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>No, due to safety concerns, exploration should be done through guided tours only.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>