In the early days of American westward expansion it was thought that the Great Plains would never compare to the great cities of the Eastern seaboard. Today, however, the Midwest is home to some of the largest corporations in the world. Decatur, Illinois itself is home to four multi-national corporations: ADM, A.E. Staley, Caterpillar, and Mueller Company. Throughout the years Decatur has thrived as a business community and in the year 2000 Decatur was named the number one small metro-area in the United States by Forbes Magazine.

In the middle of the 19th century Decatur was founded in a small valley in what today we call Central Illinois. From humble beginnings Decatur quickly attracted some of the most important people of the day, such as Abraham Lincoln, Stephen Douglas, A.E. Staley, Hieronymus Mueller, and Governor Oglesby.

At the turn of the 20th century, Decatur's business ties had put it on the national map. Today, as it was one-hundred years ago, Decatur remains the focus of industry in Illinois. The immense success of its large corporations and the spectacular growth of small business allowed Decatur the unique opportunity to continue growing throughout the 21st century.

In 1910, the Citizens Building opened its doors to the public for the first time. Since that time, the Barnes Citizens Building has been a landmark for Decatur business. Many businesses have called the Barnes Citizens Building home, and nearly everyone in Decatur and the surrounding communities knows its location.

With such a tremendous industrial history that continues today, as well as the growth of small business and the support of the community itself, Decatur is a great place to live, start a business, and work. A stunning landmark like the Barnes Citizens Building is a great place for your business to call home!