that he originally named the area after a street in Boston, MA, where he owned property. A second story suggests that he changed the name of the settlement, originally referred to as “Marquette” on old French maps, to the Ojibwe word “Minonk,” meaning “a good place.” Minonk is the only city in the world with that name. Early settlers were attracted to Minonk by a variety of livelihoods. Many came to work on the railroad. Others settled in the area to farm on the abundant, rich farmland. However, coal mining was the leading industry in the early years of Minonk. The first coal mines were developed in the 1860s, and at one point employed over 300 men. Two mines operated in Minonk: the first mine was located on the north edge of the city, and the second was situated a half-mile north of town. Sports Minonk, Illinois is home to Fieldcrest High School and their football team the Fieldcrest Knights. Notes References Schneider, Alice Hayes. Tales from the Trees. Minonk, IL: Schneider, 1981. Cities in Illinois Cities in Woodford County, Illinois Peoria metropolitan area, Illinois Populated places established in 1854 1854 establishments in Illinois