Many recognizable figures got their start in Illinois, including the most famous reindeer of all. The story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was written by a Chicago-area man (Robert May) and the well-known Christmas song (written by Johnny Marks) was helped made popular by southern Illinois’ Jasper County native Burl Ives. The General Assembly passed House Resolution 476 to honor and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of actor, writer, and folk music singer Burl Ives on June 14, 2009.
The story of Rudolph still delights children of all ages every Christmas season. Best wishes to all this Holiday!