| "Where Memories Are Made" |
Bishop Hill History
History of Bishop Hill, Illinois:
Religious dissident immigrants from Sweden founded the communal society of Bishop Hill in 1846.
The charismatic Erik Jansson led the society spiritually and temporarily until 1850 when he was
murdered.
By 1854, a total of 1200 followers of all ages and backgrounds had arrived at Bishop Hill. Over
coming many hardships and trials, 12000 acres of virgin land was improved for agricultural
purposes. Various crops including flax, broom corn, and grain were grown. Orchards were also
planted and furniture was manufactured. Bishop Hill quickly became known as one of the largest
manufacturers of wagons and buggys.
In 1861, dissatisfaction and disillusionment in the breakup of the society and the land was divided
among its members. Many of the homes and building still are owned by family members of original
immigrants to Bishop Hill.
Religious dissident immigrants from Sweden founded the communal society of Bishop Hill in 1846.
The charismatic Erik Jansson led the society spiritually and temporarily until 1850 when he was
murdered.
By 1854, a total of 1200 followers of all ages and backgrounds had arrived at Bishop Hill. Over
coming many hardships and trials, 12000 acres of virgin land was improved for agricultural
purposes. Various crops including flax, broom corn, and grain were grown. Orchards were also
planted and furniture was manufactured. Bishop Hill quickly became known as one of the largest
manufacturers of wagons and buggys.
In 1861, dissatisfaction and disillusionment in the breakup of the society and the land was divided
among its members. Many of the homes and building still are owned by family members of original
immigrants to Bishop Hill.
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Bishop Hill Fine Arts
Website Updated on:
April 05, 2010
April 05, 2010