Walking Tour Explores Bloomington’s History

BLOOMINGTON – July 13, 2011 – Over fifty people participated Wednesday evening in a walking social history tour of Bloomington, hosted by the Common Action Free School.

Bill Kemp, Greg Koos, and Mike Matejka led the engaging tour, speaking of Bloomington history as it related to important landmarks, buildings, and communities.

Some of the topics discussed were the role of diverse groups of immigrants in the community, the effect of the Civil War and slavery, the Lincoln legacy, the fight between local farmers and the railroads, the birth of the Anti-Defamation League, and the rich history of working people and their struggle for workplace justice.

The tour began around the Old Courthouse and then followed the bike trail through the old rail yards and working-class communities. Many people commented on the tour’s educational benefit and overall enjoyment.

More pictures will be added below as they are forthcoming.