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Bloomington, Illinois

Welcome to Bloomington, a vibrant heart of Central Illinois where historic charm meets modern innovation. We're incredibly proud to be home to Illinois Wesleyan University and the global headquarters of State Farm Insurance, a testament to our enduring spirit of community and enterprise. From our beautiful parks to our rich cultural scene, Bloomington offers a welcoming embrace and a strong sense of pride to all who call it home.
Founded 1853 | Population 78,902 | Peak 78,902 (2024) | County McLean County

Top Events in Bloomington, Illinois

1
1853 City Incorporated: Bloomington officially became an incorporated city, setting the stage for growth.
2
1856 Republican Party Formed: The Illinois Republican Party was officially formed here at the Bloomington Convention.
3
1922 State Farm Founded: State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company was founded, becoming a major employer.
4
1926 Route 66 Designated: Historic U.S. Route 66 was established, passing directly through Bloomington's heart.
5
2007 Arena Opens Downtown: The Grossinger Motors Arena opened, sparking a revitalization of the downtown area.
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Latest News in Bloomington

Feb 20, 2026
They’ve Won $288 Million From The Lottery But The State Won’t Pay Them
Winning the lottery has been the dream for many, and in Illinois, lottery winners are hitting the jackpot.
May 2, 2016
Heres what These New Purple Parking Spots Mean
In the bustling streets of American cities back in May 2016, a splash of purple began popping up in parking lots, catching the eye…
Apr 10, 2015
Politician Dies After Husband Sets Explosive During Sex Car
In a bizarre and tragic turn of events last week, a prominent politician met a sudden and violent end when her husband allegedly r…

Historical Timeline of Bloomington

1831 Founding
Town Platted
1853 Government
City Incorporated
1856 Politics
Republican Party Convention
1867 Education
Illinois Wesleyan University Founded
1922 Economy
State Farm Founded
1926 Transport
Route 66 Established
1968 Transport
Interstate 74 Completed
2007 Culture
Grossinger Motors Arena Opens

Did You Know? — Bloomington

1
Bloomington is home to the world headquarters of State Farm Insurance, a major employer and cornerstone of the local economy.
2
The Illinois Republican Party was formally organized here at the 1856 Bloomington Convention, where Abraham Lincoln delivered his powerful 'Lost Speech.'
3
The historic Route 66, 'The Mother Road,' was routed directly through Bloomington, bringing travelers and commerce to the city.
4
The David Davis Mansion, a National Historic Landmark, offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent Supreme Court Justice and friend of Abraham Lincoln.
5
Illinois Wesleyan University, founded in 1850, is one of the nation's premier liberal arts institutions, contributing significantly to Bloomington's intellectual and cultural vibrancy.
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Famous People from Bloomington, Illinois

CD
Clinton Davisson
Physicist, University Teacher · Born Oct 22, 1881 · Died Feb 1, 1958 (age 76)
EH
Elbert Green Hubbard
Writer, Journalist · Born Jun 19, 1856 · Died May 7, 1915 (age 58)
GR
George Lincoln Rockwell
Politician, Military Officer · Born Mar 9, 1918 · Died Aug 25, 1967 (age 49)
RS
Rick Scott
Lawyer, Businessperson · Born Dec 1, 1952 · Age 73
KL
Kelly Loeffler
Businessperson, Politician · Born Nov 27, 1970 · Age 55

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