Tutty Baker

Who is Tutty Baker?

William "Tutty" Baker, credited as the founder of Freeport, Illinois, built a trading post on the banks of the Pecatonica River. A generous man, Baker began operating a free ferry across the river and even invited travelers into his home for meals and lodging. According to one story, Freeport earned its name after Baker's wife, Elizabeth Baker, asked him if his river port was a "Free Port", because of the number of people he didn't charge to ferry across the river.

Freeport celebrates the founder of the town with Tutty Baker days in the downtown area.

A monument to him was erected in Freeport by the Daughters of the American Revolution.