Peoria to Receive First Historical Marker on Saturday, June 28, a Momentous Occasion in the Black Panther Party's History
Peoria, IL (June 26, 2025)–Peoria Defense Captain Mark Clark was the first Panther killed during the FBI-coordinated raid to assassinate Illinois Deputy Chairman Fred Hampton on December 4, 1969. In the same year, Clark started a Free Breakfast for Children Program at the city’s oldest church, Ward Chapel A.M.E. The church continued the feeding program until the COVID-19 pandemic, and will be the first site on the Heritage Trail to receive a historical marker on Clark’s 78th birthday.
Co-founder and leader of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party, the Honorable Bobby L. Rush wants Mark Clark’s legacy to be honored, “Mark’s leadership in Peoria was exemplary, and we rightly remember and honor his life and sacrifice. Peoria is a must-visit stop along the Heritage Trail.”
The historical marker and event are made possible by an Illinois Humanities 2024 Racial Equity Grant to the Historical Preservation Society of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party.
The city of Peoria is invited to attend the Dedication Ceremony of the historical marker on Saturday. Former members of the Illinois Chapter will join community members, Mark Clark’s surviving siblings and other family members, as well as members of the Historical Preservation Society.
When you give, you are helping to create space in the built environment for the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party. It is up to us to preserve this history, and your help is essential. Please give today.
