Rantoul/Chanute

We were able to stop and visit the little town of Rantoul, once the home of Chanute AFB. We were married in that little town while TM was in Tech School and lived there about 7 months. Then we went back to Chanute later so TM could be a Tech School instructor. Apryl was born there and we lived in base housing.

Well, after a long and glorious history, Chanute AFB was closed several years ago and incorporated into the town of Rantoul. The only change we saw in the town was that Chanute is now part of it and not a separate entity. Really, the town hasn't changed. The Dairy Queen is still right there where it always was, the high school doesn't look like it has been changed, the upstairs apt. that we had during our first tour is still there. We could look out our front windows and watch the HS football games (and the cheerleaders).

The housing was probably sold by the AF as unit to a corporation, who then sold the units individually. The Wherry housing (the type we were in), aka townhouse style, has been changed somewhat, but the other housing seems to be the same. It was kind of fun to see our old place at 3 Circle Dr. The addresses have been changed though - I guess to protect the innocent. :)

We really enjoyed the museum they have set up. So much history there. Also fun to see the places we used to frequent. The campground there is very nice and wasn't crowded at all. Maybe if we ever go again we will stay there.

As it was we stayed in Urbana, just a short drive away. Enjoyed that campground a lot, as we were right on the lake. Traveling Dog really liked that lake. Every time we tried to get a pic of him wading, he would come back out of the water. What a naughty dog.

It was a good stopover.

God Bless