Distinctive Dixon: The Surprising History of One Illinois River Town

Explore Dixon’s rich and fascinating past on this episode of Along the Rock, brought to you by the Radar Free Press.

Host Nathan Stahr sits down with local historian Tom Wadsworth to discuss his new book, Distinctive Dixon: Fascinating Stories of Dixon’s Rich History. The book has already sold out its first printing and continues to capture attention with its deep dive into the people, places, and events that shaped Dixon and northern Illinois.

In this episode, you’ll learn about Dixon’s early role as a river crossing and stagecoach hub, the city’s impact on regional development, and lesser-known stories—including the close connection between Dixon and Neil Reagan, brother of President Ronald Reagan.

📘 Where to purchase the book Distinctive Dixon:

• Books on First (Dixon)

• Discover Dixon (Dixon Chamber of Commerce)

• Lee County Historical Society

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🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online

🎤 Highlights:

0:49 – Introducing the Book: Distinctive Dixon

1:18 – How the Book Came Together

1:55 – What Makes Dixon’s History Unique?

2:10 – The Stagecoach Era & Early Dixon

4:01 – The Reagan Brothers’ Shared Lives

4:43 – Local vs. National Interest in the Book

5:59 – Digitization & Modern Historical Research

7:05 – Research Tools

7:39 – From Microfilm to Digital Archives

8:01 – What Readers Should Take Away

8:52 – Dixon’s Role Before Chicago

9:14 – Dixon’s Ferry & Economic Growth

10:03 – Transportation Then and Now

10:29 – Where to Buy Distinctive Dixon

11:04 – Other Topics Covered in the Book

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#Dixon history #Distinctive Dixon #Tom Wadsworth #local historian #Illinois history #Rock River #stagecoach history #Neal Reagan #Ronald Reagan #Reagan family #Eureka College #early Illinois #local history #genealogy research #Lee County Historical Society