“Tug” Wilson historic marker dedication August 22 at Rajah Park

Linda Kellough, granddaughter of Kenneth L. “Tug” Wilson is scheduled as the key speaker at a historic marker dedication ceremony scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, August 22 at Rajah Memorial Park on Magnolia Avenue in Atwood.

The marker, sanctioned by the Illinois State Historical Society, recognizes Wilson for his contributions to amateur sports around the world. He was born in Atwood in 1896 and graduated from Atwood High School in 1914. He competed in the 1920 Olympic Games in Antwerp, Belgium, finishing 10th in the discus.

During his professional career, Wilson served as athletics director at Drake University and Northwestern University before becoming the second commissioner of the Big Ten conference. He also served as chairman of the United States Track and Field Committee for the 1948 Games in London before being elected as president of the U.S. Olympic Committee in 1953, 1957 and 1961.

Other speakers scheduled for the event include Atwood Mayor Davey Herring and Bill Furry, executive director of the Illinois State Historical Society.

The dedication is sponsored by the Tug Wilson Historic Preservation Committee consisting of Kent Brown, Marsha Burgener and Vanessa Curry.

The public is invited to attend the dedication ceremony and to enjoy light refreshments at United Church of Atwood afterward.