Loraine (population 363) is located in north-central Adams County in western Illinois. Loraine
is located just north of Illinoiis Route 61 on County Highway 336. The South Fork of the Bear Creek flows to the west
of town. Loraine sits about 15 miles northeast of Quincy.
A nice history of the town of Loraine is found on the internet web address of http://history.rays-place.com/il/adams-mendon.htm. In summary, the town was platted in 1870 by a railroad company laying tracks through the area. The
town enjoyed steady growth during its early years. At the time the article was written in 1919, Loraine had a bustling
population of over 700 residents.
Loraine started an educational system for its children in 1843. The high school may have
been established in the late 1800s in a two-story brick building that had one classroom on each floor. That building was later torn
down & replaced by a new two-story frame building in 1892-93 that had four classrooms, but it burned down
in 1901.
Rather than starting in new ground, the folks in Loraine decided to clear the rubble and erect a new high
school in 1903, which is when a three-year school opened. Additions were made to the building in 1910, 1915, and 1920 with
a second story added.
Loraine kept a grade school in her town including the building of a new elementary school building in 1965.
This school still serves the Unity School District today. The fate of the original Loraine High School building
is being sought.
Loraine High School Quick Facts
Year opened: late 1800's
Year closed: 1948
Consolidated to: Unity High School (Mendon)
School nickname: unavailable
School colors: unavailable
School Fight Song: unavailable
