Nestled in southwestern McLean County, Shirley, Illinois stands as a fascinating historic settlement along the famed Route 66. This charming community, originally established in 1854 as a burgeoning farm and railroad settlement, embodies a rich tapestry of pioneering spirit, significant agricultural influence, and transportation history. While its formal recognition as an official town would take some years, its strategic location and the vision of its early inhabitants laid the groundwork for a unique legacy that continues to captivate visitors today. Exploring Shirley, Illinois offers a glimpse into a foundational chapter of the American Midwest, where cattle barons and railroad developers shaped the landscape and economy.
The Visionary Funk Family and the Birth of a Community
The story of Shirley is inextricably linked to the Funk family, whose immense contributions transformed the Illinois prairie. The earliest pioneers in the region were brothers Isaac and Absalom Funk, who arrived in 1824. With foresight and industriousness, they cultivated a vast cattle ranch spanning an impressive 25,000 acres, establishing the notable Funk’s Grove just four miles to the south. Isaac Funk, a man of considerable influence, played a pivotal role in the region’s development. Alongside his esteemed attorney and friend, Abraham Lincoln, Isaac Funk was instrumental in rerouting the Chicago & Alton Railroad through this area, diverting it from its initial planned trajectory through Peoria. This strategic move ensured that the railroad, a vital artery of commerce and progress, would pass directly through what would become Shirley, Illinois, forever altering its destiny and ensuring its growth.
Following in his father’s footsteps, LaFayette Funk, son of Isaac Funk, emerged as a prominent figure in his own right. A highly successful cattleman, LaFayette co-founded and became a boss of the prestigious Chicago Union Stock Yards. His commitment to public service led him to serve as an Illinois State Senator, further cementing the Funk family’s legacy. In 1863, LaFayette Funk embarked on the construction of an extraordinary home for his wife in Shirley. This residence, known today as the Prairie Home, was a marvel of its era. Upon its completion in 1864, it boasted state-of-the-art amenities, including both hot and cold running water—a rare luxury for the time. Over the ensuing years, the mansion continued to evolve, integrating cutting-edge innovations such as the first-ever electric kitchen island and a lighted tennis court. Today, the Prairie Home stands as a meticulously preserved testament to the Funk family’s enduring influence and architectural taste. It remains open for tours, inviting guests to explore its 13 rooms adorned with original furnishings, as well as a rich collection of memorabilia and antiques lovingly accumulated by several generations of the Funk lineage. It’s a genuine treasure trove of American history and a must-see for anyone interested in the opulent lifestyles of 19th-century Illinois pioneers.
Establishing the Townsite: John M. Foster’s Contribution
While the Funk family laid the economic foundation, the formal establishment of the town of Shirley owes much to another early pioneer, John M. Foster. Hailing from New Hampshire, Foster arrived in the area and, along with other settlers, began building homes strategically near the switch of the newly constructed Chicago & Alton Railroad. Recognizing the potential for a structured community, Foster meticulously laid out a townsite in 1866. This initial plat comprised just ten small blocks, thoughtfully organized around the railroad. Foster’s own home, a general store, and the critical railroad station were situated on the south side of the tracks, forming the nascent commercial and social hub. On the north side, a warehouse and a mill were established, serving the burgeoning agricultural needs of the surrounding farms. As the years progressed, the small settlement began to flourish. A hotel soon provided accommodations for travelers and new arrivals, while community life was further enriched by the establishment of a Methodist Church and the venerable Shirley Christian Church, which has faithfully served the area since 1839. By 1895, Shirley had grown to encompass approximately 20 homes, reflecting a steady, if modest, expansion.
Shirley Today: A Blend of History, Geology, and Route 66 Charm
Though now an unincorporated community, Shirley, Illinois continues to thrive, maintaining a close-knit population of approximately 375 residents. Visitors to this historic community will discover a unique blend of preserved heritage and fascinating natural wonders, particularly centered around the legacy of the Funk family. The Funk Prairie Home, located at 10875 Prairie Home Lane, remains the cornerstone of Shirley’s historical attractions. Its tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur and daily life of a prominent 19th-century Illinois family. Adjacent to the historic mansion lies another extraordinary attraction: the Funk Gem and Mineral Museum. This remarkable institution houses an extensive display of rare gems, minerals, fossils, petrified wood, and intricate lapidary art, making it a prominent destination for geology enthusiasts in Illinois. The collection was meticulously amassed over many years by Lafayette Funk II, the grandson of the Senator who originally built the mansion. He dedicated his life to acquiring these unusual specimens, curating them until his passing at the age of 95 in 1992. The museum proudly bills itself as holding the most extensive one-man mineral collection in the world, a testament to Funk II’s passion and dedication. Beyond its geological treasures, the museum also features compelling Native American artifacts discovered on the Funk farmstead, provides insights into the historic Funk Brothers Seed Company, and showcases a myriad of other items collected throughout the generations by the diverse Funk Family.
Shirley’s enduring appeal is also significantly amplified by its position on the historic Route 66. As travelers journey along the legendary Mother Road, Shirley, Illinois serves as a captivating stopover, offering a rich historical detour from the main thoroughfare. Just about four miles southward, Route 66 continues its path to Funk’s Grove, an area renowned for its delicious maple sirup production—a sweet treat that adds another layer to the region’s agricultural heritage. This connection to Route 66 ensures that Shirley remains a point of interest for those exploring the iconic highway, eager to uncover the authentic charm and untold stories of America’s past.
Conclusion: Shirley’s Enduring Legacy
From its humble beginnings as a railroad and farm settlement to its present-day status as a cherished historical landmark, Shirley, Illinois offers a profound journey through time. The indelible mark left by pioneering families like the Funks, coupled with its strategic location on Route 66, has shaped a community rich in both natural and cultural heritage. Whether marveling at the architectural splendor of the Prairie Home, exploring the globally renowned Funk Gem and Mineral Museum, or simply soaking in the quiet charm of a historic Route 66 village, Shirley provides a truly enriching experience. It stands as a testament to the vision and perseverance of those who built the Midwest, inviting visitors to discover the layers of history that continue to define this unique Illinois gem. Shirley truly encapsulates the spirit of American pioneering and the enduring allure of the Mother Road.
