History of Bourbonnais, Illinois, USA

1832 - (Bourbonnais) - In 1832, Noel LeVasseur arrived as the American Fur Company's local agent, established a trading post, and became the area's first permanent non-Native American settler.
He married Watseka, niece of a Potawatomi chieftain, and after the Potawatomi were relocated to Iowa, recruited Canadians to settle around his store.
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In 1853, the Illinois legislature split Iroquois County, and Bourbonnais Grove became part of new Kankakee County.

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1858 - (Bourbonnais) - In 1858 residents built the Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, and soon nuns of the Congregation of Notre Dame arrived from Canada to teach and provide nursing care. Two years later they founded Notre Dame Academy.

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1865 - (Bourbonnais) - In 1865 clerics of St. Viator founded St. Viator College for boys.[

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After a referendum in 1875, the settlement incorporated as the Village of Bourbonnais,
with George R. LeTourneau as its first mayor, and trustees Francois Sequin, Joseph Legris, Alexis Gosselin, P.L. Monast, Alex LaMontagne, Joseph Goulet, Jacob Thyfault and Len Bessette.
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1895 - Bourbonnais
Bourbonnais, boor'bon'nā', a township of Kankakee co., Ill. Pop. 2068.

Bourbonnais Grove, a post-village of Kankakee co., Ill., 23 miles from Kankakee, is the seat of the college of St. Viateur, of a convent, and of large Catholic schools. It has a church.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1916
Bourbonnais, a post-village of Kankakee co., Ill., 2 1/ 2 miles from Kankakee. Pop. in 1900, 595.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Bourbonnais:
Perry Farm Park: This picturesque park offers walking trails, a historic farmstead, and a nature center. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.

Olivet Nazarene University: Bourbonnais is home to Olivet Nazarene University, which hosts various events, including concerts, lectures, and sporting events. Check their schedule to see what's happening during your visit.

Exploration Station: If you have kids, don't miss this hands-on children's museum. It's a fantastic place for young ones to learn and have fun through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Baltz Athletic Center: If you're into fitness or just want to stay active, the Baltz Athletic Center at Olivet Nazarene University offers gym facilities, a pool, and various fitness classes.

Bourbonnais Friendship Festival: If you happen to visit in the summer, check out the Bourbonnais Friendship Festival. This annual event features live music, a carnival,... Read MORE...