John Kadel Sr was the director of the band for some 21 years. Kadel organized the band in 1872 and was the director until 1896 when he retired. The band was one of the largest and best bands in this section of the county and during the competition held in Dixon, won first place as best band in the state.

In 1893 the band had 32 members and in 1896, the band was offered, and accepted, the position of the official band for the 6th Regiment, Illinois National Guard and was featured during encampments held in Springfield.

Kadel, an accomplished cornetist, was a veteran of the American Civil war during which he was the chief bugler for the 21st PA Cavalry.

Daily Gazette July 2, 1976