There are times when one needs to take a slow walk to appreciate the language of history: to understand the passion, foresight and insight of those who have gone before. Now, I am going to admit that I am neither an architect nor an historian. But, when one takes the time, it’s amazing the sounds one might hear coming from an historical structure. This month we are taking a slow stroll around the Rouse-Hazard building. You may be familiar with this structure, as it is to become the new home of Trefzger’s Bakery in Peoria Heights.

When reading about the Rouse-Hazard building, I became entranced as I was teleported back to 1895, the year this grand building was constructed. I could almost hear the 100-150 employees as they moved wrenches, scraped fingers, strained to make quota and sweat profusely in the summer heat to build the 20,000 bicycles which were manufactured annually. I could envision the marketing catalogues printed to highlight the “Sylph” and “Overland” bicycles, which ranged from $45 to $75. My, those were some bicycles, with their high seat model and the other, with conventional wheels which definitely appeared to be the more comfortable of the two. I had a sense of “thirst satisfaction” as I read of the man-made pond, in the back of the plant, which was the main source of water supply. The more I read, the more each of my senses became engaged in this sense of history, which is Peoria Heights.

While grasping the language of history may be a multi-sensory experience, it would be beneficial for that experience to compel us further. For if there is nothing but looking back, wonderful future opportunities ahead may not be realized.

As you and I return from our heightened historical sensation, let’s look at someone who is studying the past, endeavoring to preserve it and pursuing with great passion the growing of an historical “sweet” business.

Might I say, “sweet teeth unite?” At 9 a.m. Monday March 14, the announcement was made that the construction was to begin for Trefzger’s Development. Trefzger’s Development will be the home of Trefzger’s Bakery which will occupy 12,000 square feet with an enhanced retail experience with a viewing area of Trefzger’s cake decorating area. The Development will also be home to the Trailside Event Center and Leaves ‘n Beans Commissary and have 4,400 square feet of available commercial space. The Trailside Event Center will have a capacity for 250 people for hosting special events. The Development will also feature an outdoor seating area off the Rock Island Trail.

Jeff and Martha Huebner, owners of Trefzger’s Bakery, are building on the history of that which was Simon Trefzger and the Rouse Hazard bicycle factory. Their passion has engaged many partners to see this historical event realized. They have studied what was before in order to dream of what can be.

I invite you to come to Peoria Heights and observe history being made. Perhaps you might make your own history.