Wadsworth recently released his new book, Distinctive Dixon: Fascinating Stories of Dixon’s Rich History, a project that has already exceeded expectations. The first printing of 500 copies sold out in just 11 days, prompting a second printing that is already halfway gone. The book’s popularity reflects a strong appetite for local history and a growing appreciation for Dixon’s unique role in Illinois history.
The idea for the book grew out of Wadsworth’s work as a local history columnist for the Sterling Gazette and the Dixon Telegraph. After two years of writing and researching stories about Dixon, readers repeatedly encouraged him to compile the material into a book. Over time, those individual columns expanded into a larger body of research, ultimately becoming a 25-chapter collection highlighting the people, places, institutions, and events that make Dixon distinctive.
During the conversation, Wadsworth shared several examples of the surprising stories found in the book. One major focus is the role of stagecoach travel in Dixon during the 1830s, when the city served as a critical crossing point along the Rock River. This transportation hub helped establish Dixon as an early economic center in northern Illinois, long before Chicago emerged as a major settlement.
Another standout chapter explores Neil Reagan, the lesser-known brother of President Ronald Reagan. While Ronald Reagan’s legacy is widely documented, Wadsworth’s research sheds new light on Neil Reagan’s life and the close relationship between the two brothers. Both attended Dixon High School, played football, served as student body president at Eureka College, studied economics and sociology, worked in radio, and eventually pursued careers connected to entertainment. That chapter has drawn attention from Reagan enthusiasts across the country.
Wadsworth also discussed how modern technology has transformed historical research. Digitized newspapers, online archives, ancestry databases, and resources from the Lee County Historical Society have made it possible to uncover information that once required hours spent scrolling through microfilm. These tools have allowed Wadsworth to research more efficiently and accurately, helping him verify details and expand the scope of his work.
At the heart of Distinctive Dixon is a clear message: Dixon’s history truly stands apart. Its early settlement, strategic river crossing, and role as a stopping point on the way to Galena gave the city an outsized influence in the development of northern Illinois. Many of the patterns that drive economic growth today—transportation routes, stopping points, and traffic flow—were already shaping Dixon nearly two centuries ago.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including John Dixon and Dixon’s Ferry, notable visitors such as generals and presidents, Charles R. Walgreen’s connections to the area, and numerous pivotal moments that helped define the community. Organized into sections on distinctive people, places and institutions, and events, the book offers readers both depth and accessibility.
Distinctive Dixon is available locally at Books on First, Discover Dixon (the Dixon Chamber of Commerce), and the Lee County Historical Society.
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