Aurora Historical Society celebrates 200th birthday of early settler William A. Tanner
He was born in 1815, shortly after the words to the national anthem were penned. He would travel to Illinois as a 20-year-old bachelor and, through hard work and impressive foresight, make a success of himself. His large family, grand house and eponymous business that flourished in Aurora for 125 years would make his name a familiar one. He was William Augustus Tanner and his 200th birthday falls on Feb. 17, 2015.
The Aurora Historical Society will celebrate this milestone with a birthday party from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at the Pierce Art and History Center, 20 E. Downer Place, Aurora. The party will open a new exhibit, "The Life and Times of William A. Tanner, 1815-1892", scheduled to run through May 9. The event also falls on First Friday in Aurora when a dozen local businesses and galleries open late hours.
"Mr. Tanner's life in Aurora spanned most of the 19th century," said John Jaros, executive director of the Aurora Historical Society. "He came as one of the very first white settlers, as a participant in America's vigorous westward expansion. He began as a farmer and then built upon boom times by opening a hardware business. The Civil War, the growth of railroads and the establishment of industry in Aurora created a business environment that he evidently understood.
"His story is a classic American success story of innovation and hard work. Now is a good time to reflect on what William Tanner and his family contributed to this city."
The birthday party is free, though donations are appreciated. For information, see aurorahistory.net or facebook.com/aurorahistory.
If you go
What: 200th birthday party for early Aurora settler William A. Tanner; opens new exhibit "The Life and Times of William A. Tanner, 1815-1892," running through May 9
When: 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6
Where: Pierce Art and History Center, 20 E. Downer Place, Aurora
Cost: Free; donations accepted
Info: aurorahistory.net or facebook.com/aurorahistory