Ah, the good old days, when we could light off fireworks in our backyards and really celebrate the 4th of July. Turns out...no, that's always been a bad idea. Stay safe out there and enjoy this echo from July 1, 1984 instead of lighting something on fire.

How did Elgin get its name? This echo from May 29, 1983 will answer that important question.

Are you a Butter fan? Or maybe you prefer Butterine? There's a place for both in Elgin history. Tune into this echo from May 22, 1983 for the better butter facts.

Thousands of students have attended Abbott Middle School on the west side. As Abbott nears its end, let's talk about its beginning. School is in session; tune in to this echo from October 18, 1982.

Elgin was once the home of a renowned manufacturer of decorative make-up compacts. Learn more about Elgin American in this echo from April 24, 2005.

Allan Pinkerton, of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, has several local ties. This echo from April 25, 1999 will give you the facts, and some of the mysteries.

The Lords Park Zoo has delighted visitors since 1895. Learn more about it's history in this echo from October 22, 1995.