The University Library's digital collection of Ashton Gazette newspapers reflects a Republican-affiliated periodical serving the northern region of rural Illinois. Articles, advertisements, and editorials reflect the regional character of Ashton, Illinois, a rich agricultural district in Lee county. Special features of the newspaper includes Ashton’s village treasurer’s report and annual chronologies. Every week, subscribers could expect to find information on state and national news, local gossip, short stories, and advice columns. This collection provides a record of the enduring rural culture of northern Illinois in during the early twentieth century. Family historians may find the local announcements useful for documenting births, weddings, and deaths in the area. The paper is still published today under the same name.