In 1895, due to the discontent of the citizens of Freedom, with the muddy roads and lack of sidewalks, they decided to incorporate. Primarily because of complaints by the Post Office, the village had to decide on another name for itself, because there was another town named Freedom in Illinois, causing great confusion.

Hecker, as it is known today, is named for German revolutionist, patriot, orator and civil war hero, Friedrich Franz Karl Hecker. It is believed that Col. Hecker liked the area so much that on one occasion he stayed at a hotel in Freedom. Because of his personality, courteous dealings and intellect, the people of Freedom decided to name their village after him. Hecker's letters and papers are archived at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Modern day Hecker is surrounded by fertile Illinois farmground, with agriculture central to its economy. Hecker's population is under 1,000 inhabitants, most residents commuting to jobs throughout the region. The community, like other towns and villages in Monroe County, has grown in recent years. Hecker celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1995.

For more information on Hecker contact: Hecker Village Board, Hecker, IL 62248.