Peoria is located in central Illinois in Peoria County and is the county seat. It is the oldest community in Illinois and received its name from the Native Americans contacted by the first French explorers. It lies north of Springfield along Interstate 74 on the banks of the Illinois River.

The city is the home of Bradley University, Methodist M. C. School of Nursing and St. Francis M. C. College of Nursing. In addition, golfers have a choice between Leo Donovan Golf Course, Kellogg Golf Course, Madison Golf Course, Newman Golf Course, WeaverRidge Golf Club and Detweiller Golf Course.

Tidbits:Penicillin was developed in Peoria during WWII.An old Vaudeville line, "Will it play in Peoria?" found its way into national politics.Peoria is the world headquarters of Caterpillar, Inc.Attractions include historic Washington Square, Wildlife Prairie Park, the Festival of Lights and the Peoria riverboat casino "Par-A-Dice".The "Spirit of Peoria" is a refurbished stern-driven paddlewheeler.

The population estimate for 1998 was 111,148.