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Mount Vernon, Illinois

Mount Vernon is a city in and the county seat of Jefferson County, Illinois, United States. The population was 14,600 at the 2020 census. Mount Vernon is the principal city of the Mount Vernon Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Jefferson and Hamilton counties.

19th century
Mt. Vernon was founded in 1817 by Zadok Casey, who was elected to the State Senate in 1822 and was elected lieutenant governor in 1833. He served in the U.S. Congress between 1833 and 1843. The town was named for George Washington's plantation, Mount Vernon, which was named for Edward Vernon, a British naval hero.

When the town was founded, there was no road to it. Travelers had to get there by either following the high ground from the north or crossing the swamps from the south. In the early 19th century the Goshen Road crossed Illinois in a northwesterly direction from Old Shawneetown, Illinois to the Goshen Settlement, near what is now Edwardsville. This road was the main road in Illinois. When Mt. Vernon was first settled, the Goshen Road made a wide arc across Jefferson County, crossing Casey Creek and the Big Muddy north of Mt. Vernon, avoiding the swamps to the south, but bypassing Mt. Vernon. The road entered the county at its southeast corner. It passed through, or near, what are now Opdyke, East Salem, Idlewood, Dix and Walnut Hill. However, it was apparent to the early settlers that the town would fail without roads. In 1820–1821, Ben Hood and Carter Wilkey built a bridge over Casey Creek, to the southeast of town. This bridge was near the present bridge on Illinois Route 142. A road was built from there northwest, over ground that is now impassable, toward the old cemetery behind the modern Bethel Cemetery. Deep cuts through the old cemetery attest to the location of the road. From there the road probably followed modern Route 37 into town, somewhere shifting from 10th Street on west to 12th Street.

After the state capital was moved to Vandalia in 1819, it became apparent that a road to Vandalia was needed. A party was sent out to the northwest to mark the road. In 1823, Thomas D. Minor and William Maxwell built the "Vandalia Road", now called the "Old Centralia Road." It runs northwest out of Mt. Vernon to Walnut Hill. Although legend says that this road is crooked because of the drunken state of the surveyors, the path is probably just the natural path of a pioneer road following the terrain. After the bridge and the Vandalia Road were built, Mt. Vernon was "on the map." The bridge across Casey Creek and the Vandalia Road provided a much shorter path across Jefferson County than the original Goshen Road. The new Goshen Road soon captured most of the traffic, and Mt. Vernon became an important stop on the road west.

In 1836, Joshua Grant came to Mt. Vernon from Christian County, Kentucky with several of his sons and daughters. His family was a wealthy slave-owning family, most of whom soon moved to Arkansas, probably because slavery was illegal in Illinois. Joshua left behind several daughters and one son, Angus McNeil Grant, who soon became important in the development of the town. "Upon his arrival, there were but four or five houses in the place, and from that time to the present (1883) he has constantly and ably exerted himself in securing to it the full development of its resources." Angus M. Grant's brother, Joshua Jr. taught school in Mt. Vernon in 1838. Some sources cite him as the first schoolteacher in the town.

In 1848, in accordance with the new constitution of Illinois, the Illinois Supreme Court first Grand Division was relocated to Mt. Vernon. There were three divisions total comprised for the first (southern), second (central) and third (northern) areas of the state. The 5th District Appellate Court was constructed in 1854 and is still in use as the Appellate Court House. When the Supreme Court was in session, the important lawyers in Illinois, including Abraham Lincoln, gathered in Mt. Vernon to argue their cases. The lawyers gathered at the Mt. Vernon Inn, owned by Angus McNeil Grant and his in-laws, the Andersons. This building has been on the National Register of Historic Places since July 2, 1973.

In the 1870s, Mt. Vernon for a time prohibited the sale of alcohol. A village called "East Mt. Vernon" was organized in 1877 to allow the sale of alcohol. A court fight eventually held that the village was organized illegally. Mt. Vernon then voted alcohol back in, and the area of East Mt. Vernon was annexed into the city.

On February 19, 1888, a tornado cut a path a half mile wide through Mt. Vernon, killing 37 people and destroying more than 450 houses. The Jefferson County Courthouse was destroyed. This event was one of the first disasters to which the American Red Cross responded. Clara Barton herself directed the relief efforts.

The Mt. Vernon Car Manufacturing Company opened in 1889 after moving from Litchfield, Illinois. This relocation may have been an outgrowth of the relief efforts following the tornado. The Louisville and Nashville Railroad hauled in some 1,900 carloads of supplies for reconstruction of the town. Somehow, this effort translated into a major business building railroad cars, at first building about ten cars per day. By 1909, the car shops were producing 25 cars per day, employing more than 1000 workers, with a payroll of $60,000 per month.

20th and 21st centuries
During World War II, portions of the "Car Shops", as they had to come to be known, were converted over to wartime production, including the production of bomb casings. Around 1939, a portion of the car shops was purchased by Precision Engineering, which originally built components for locomotives. During the 1970s, this company purchased old diesel/electric railroad locomotives, which it scrapped out or refurbished. Today, the plant thrives as a hub for National Railway Equipment Company which rebuilds and services diesel electric locomotives for rail lines across the globe.

In 1954, the car shops closed, causing a temporary jump in unemployment throughout the city and the 108 communities called "home" by its former employees.

The Interstate Highway System was built in the late 1950s and 1960s. The concurrency of I-57 and I-64 is along the western border of the ridgeline which divides the Big Muddy River and Casey Creek. The stack interchange on the southwest side of town complements the historic Casey Creek bridges, allowing much shorter travel times through the swamps to the east and south.

In April 2007, Mount Vernon voters elected the first female mayor of the city, Mary Jane Chesley. She was sworn into office on May 7, 2007.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Mount Vernon has a total area of 13.151 sqmi, of which 13.07 sqmi (or 99.38%) is land and 0.081 sqmi (or 0.62%) is water.

The community is about 65 mi east of St. Louis, Missouri.

Mt. Vernon is located on high ground between Casey Creek and the Big Muddy River, which join south of the town in what is now Rend Lake. In pre-settlement times the area around these waterways was a swamp, a heavily forested area that was waist-deep in water during much of the winter and during wet summers. Mt. Vernon was thus often surrounded by water and swamp on three sides.

High ground was located to the north of Mt. Vernon. A ridge ran between the Big Muddy River and Casey Creek north toward what is now Dix.

There are high places both west and east of Mt. Vernon from which one can see the town as a forested point of high ground jutting out into the bottoms. These high places are: from the west, near the Woodlawn interchange off Interstate 64 and from the east, on Old Fairfield Road near Summersville School, with the highest point located on Old Route 15 right before it merges with New Route 15, near Bluford.

Demographics
As of the census of 2020, there were 14,600 people, and the 2015-2019 data estimated 6,495 households residing in the city. The 2010 population density was 1,168.7 PD/sqmi. There were 7,534 housing units. The racial makeup of the city was 80.6% White, 14.7% African American, 0.3% Native American, 1% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.4% of the population.

There were 6,702 households, out of which 25.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35% of all households were married couples living together, 16.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 43.6% were non-families. 37.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.23 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the city the population was spread out, with 24.3% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 20 to 24, and 18% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38.3 years. Males represent 46.5% of the population, and 34% of the population was male and over 18. Women were 53.5% of the population, 41% of the population being female and over 18.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,549, and the median income for a family was $36,660. Males had a median income of $28,324 versus $16,497 for females. The per capita income for the city was $21,283. About 19.9% of families and 23.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 35.4% of those under age 18 and 11.7% of that age 65 or over. 53.9% of households earn less than $35,000.

Of the population over age 25, 72.7% have no college degree. 13.6% of those over 25 have no high school diploma nor equivalent. 7.6% of the population has a bachelor's degree or higher.

According to the US Census, health care services and social services employ the second most people with 1,001 estimated jobs. Accommodation and food services (restaurants) are the highest employer with 1,146 estimated jobs.

Crime
Illinois Annual Uniform Crime Report is an index of aggregate data for select categories of crime. It is maintained and published by Illinois State Police (ISP) 2019 2020 2021 2022/2023

Economy
Mount Vernon hosts a 48 acre facility for Continental Tire the Americas. It is also home to major distribution centers for NAPA, National Railway Equipment (NREC), ALCO and IPT (subsidiaries of NREC), along with many other smaller industries which are located in or in close proximity to the city's three industrial parks. There is discussion of creating a fourth industrial park which is to be used for distribution centers in the area of the new interchange, this park would encompass 100 acre and would be eligible for Tax Increment Financing and Enterprise Zone benefits.

Two new TIF (Tax Increment Financing) districts have been created, one TIF is at Exit 95 and is a conservation/industrial use. Exit 94 is an Industrial Park Conservation TIF. Pepsi has built a new service and distribution center that was completed in March 2011, it is located off of the Davidson Avenue extension.

Top employers
The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (Audit) contains supplemental opinions and audit information from an Independent audit firm. The independent audit firm in 2023 was Roth&Co, a Chicago based audit firm. Data for prior years located below.

Arts and culture
Mount Vernon is home to the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, a 90-acre visual and performing arts institution. Cedarhurst celebrates the arts year-round with visual and performing arts programs for the public. The Cedarhurst Craft Fair is held yearly in early September on the grounds. In addition to its programs on property, the Mitchell Museum is located on the Cedarhurst grounds.

The city is host to an event the first Saturday of each month from April through October called Market Days. This is an open-air market held near downtown and is similar to a craft fair or flea market.

There is also the Jefferson County Historical Museum and Village located within incorporated Mount Vernon. The Museum and the Village reflect life in Jefferson County from the mid 19th century to more recent years.

The C.E.Brehm Memorial Public Library, built in 1905, is a source of information to the community and is located downtown.

Beatles guitarist George Harrison bought a guitar from Fenton's Music store in Mt. Vernon in 1963 while he was visiting his sister in nearby Benton, Illinois. The guitar sold at auction for $657,000 in 2014.

Parks and recreation

 * Mount Vernon has multiple community parks with varying amenities.
 * Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area is located due south near Benton, Illinois. Rend Lake has almost 19,000 acres of water area for recreation including boating, fishing, camping, and a resort.

Local government

The city of Mount Vernon uses a Council-manager government with a mayor. The Mt. Vernon City Council meets regularly on the first and third Mondays each month. Meetings are moved to the following Tuesday if the first or third Monday falls on a holiday.

The elective officers of the City of Mt. Vernon shall be a Mayor, four Councilmen, a City Clerk, and a City Treasurer. At the general election for City officers to be starting in January 1969 and every four years thereafter, there shall be elected a Mayor, City Clerk, City Treasurer, and two Councilmen. At the general election held in 1967 and every two years thereafter, two Councilmen shall be elected.

The current mayor and council are:

 * Mayor – John Lewis
 * Council – Donte Moore, Joe Gliosci, Ray Botch, and Mike Young.

Other Elected Officials
 * Amanda K. Bean, Supervisor
 * J. Kenny Hayes, Highway Commissioner
 * Sheridan "Sherry" Meadows, Assesor
 * Cassandra McDermott, Clerk
 * Charlie Heck, Trustee
 * Terry Moore, Trustee
 * Leslie Sinks, Trustee
 * Nicholas Lemay, Trustee

Education
Mount Vernon City Schools operates elementary and middle schools. There are four education centers operated by school district 80 within the city:
 * Dr. Andy Hall Early Childhood Center (preschool)
 * Mount Vernon City Schools Primary Center (K-3)
 * J.L. Buford Intermediate Education Center (grades 4 and 5)
 * Zadok Casey Middle School (grades 6-8)

Summersville Grade School of Summersville School District 79 is a public grade school located on the east side of Mt. Vernon (grades K-8)

Mount Vernon Township High School is the community high school.

Newspapers

 * Mt. Vernon Morning Sentinel - daily newspaper located within the city that covers local, countywide, and regional news.
 * Mt. Vernon Register-News - a newspaper that served Mount Vernon, and published its last edition on February 6, 2018; the following day, CNHI announced the closure of both the Register-News and the McLeansboro Times-Leader.

Radio

 * WMIX (AM) is an AM frequency radio station operating at 940 kHz hosting a talk radio format.
 * WMIX-FM is an FM radio station with a country music format on 94.1 MHz.
 * WDML is an FM radio station with an adult rock & roll format on 106.9 MHz.

Television

 * WPXS is a television station broadcasting north of Mount Vernon operating on digital channel 21 and virtual channel 13.

Roads and highways

 * runs north and south and is local
 * runs east and west and is local
 * runs north and south and is local
 * runs east and west and is local

Airports

 * The Mount Vernon Airport has a 6,500-foot main runway, fixed-base operation, terminal building and storage hangars. Charter and private aviation services are provided, as well as refueling. The facility offers Shell 100 and Jet A fuels and pilot lounge with weight and exercise room, shower and snooze rooms, wireless internet in the airport terminal, complimentary refreshments, courtesy shuttle, as well as overnight hangar reservations.
 * MidAmerica Airport, a cargo airport approximately 45 miles from Mt. Vernon, located in Mascoutah, Illinois along Interstate 64.

Railroad service

 * Evansville Western CSX
 * Norfolk Southern
 * Union Pacific
 * Burlington Northern Santa Fe

Motor freight

 * UPS Freight
 * FedEx Freight
 * Direct Motor Freight

Bus service

 * Greyhound
 * South Central Illinois Mass Transit District

Notable people

 * Dwight Bernard, pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers and New York Mets
 * Ray Blades, left fielder for the St. Louis Cardinals; manager for the Cardinals and Brooklyn Dodgers
 * Paul W. Broyles, businessman and Illinois state legislator
 * Louis Emmerson, 29th Governor of Illinois from 1929–1933
 * Randy Fenoli, television presenter and fashion designer
 * Crista Flanagan, comedic actress, roles including MADtv and Mad Men
 * Reed Green, Illinois lawyer and politician
 * Nate Hawthorne, former NBA player for Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns
 * Michael Hicks, independent game designer and musician
 * Walt Kirk, University of Illinois and pro basketball player
 * Jeane Kirkpatrick, first woman to serve as United States Ambassador to the United Nations; graduated from Mt. Vernon Township High School.
 * Clyde Lee, Illinois state legislator and businessman
 * Ben Moses, TV producer, writer, director, filmmaker
 * William L. O'Daniel, Illinois state legislator and farmer
 * Charles W. Pavey, Illinois businessman and politician
 * Tazewell B. Tanner, Illinois state representative, judge, and newspaper editor
 * Kenny Troutt, founder and CEO, Excel Communications
 * Albert Watson, Illinois Supreme Court Justice
 * Albert Watson, II, US Army lieutenant general during World War II
 * Jane Willis, attorney, member of blackjack team featured in New York Times best-selling book Bringing Down the House and the film 21 (2008 film)
 * Mary Beth Zimmerman, golfer

title: Mount Vernon, Illinois


text:
Nason, Illinois

Nason is a city in Jefferson County, Illinois, United States. The population was 236 people as of the 2010 census, making it the least populous incorporated city in the state of Illinois. It is part of the Mount Vernon Micropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Nason is located in southern Jefferson County 12 mi south of Mount Vernon, the county seat. It sits between the two northern arms of Rend Lake, a reservoir on the Big Muddy River.

According to the 2010 census, Nason has a total area of 0.91 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 234 people, 101 households, and 64 families residing in the city. The population density was 259.0 PD/sqmi. There were 121 housing units at an average density of 133.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.15% White and 0.85% from other races. None of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 101 households, out of which 21.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.5% were married couples living together, 5.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.6% were non-families. 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the town the population was spread out, with 16.7% under the age of 18, 9.8% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 27.8% from 45 to 64, and 16.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 120.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 114.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,125 and the median income for a family was $34,375. Males had a median income of $35,313 versus $17,500 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,866. None of the families and 4.6% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no one under 18 years of age and 8.3% of those over 64 years of age.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Nason, Illinois


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Waltonville, Illinois

Waltonville is a village in Jefferson County, Illinois, United States. The population was 434 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Mount Vernon Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History
There were a series of small settlements near Waltonville prior to its formation. In 1840, Eli Gilbert dammed Rayse Creek about a mile northeast of Waltonville, near the point where the Mt. Vernon/Pinckneyville road crossed the creek. He built a saw mill, grist mill and store at this location, which was called "Mill Town". In 1860, Knob Creek Post Office was opened there. This was in McClellan Township.

In 1867, a settlement called Williamsburg was started, about a half mile west of Mill Town. This was in Knob Prairie, Blissville Township, just to the north of the present town of Waltonville. Knob Prairie owes its name to a steep hill, or knob, that arises just to the northwest of Waltonville. The town's water tower sits atop the knob.

Williamsburg was platted in 1867. It was possibly named for the surveyor, J. D. Williams. Williamsburg was at the intersection of the Shawneetown/Nashville and Mt. Vernon/Pinckneyville roads, neither of which exist any more. After the post office refused to recognize the "Williamsburg" name, it was called the "Laur Post Office", after Capt. Joseph Laur, who commanded a local company in the Civil War.

Waltonville, to the south of the knob, started as a small store owned by Rob Mannen. The town was named for his mother, Eliza A. Walton Mannen. The town took off in 1893 with the completion of a rail line from Mt. Vernon to Chester. Williamsburg moved down to the new rail depot. The rail line is now part of the Union Pacific system.

The Universalist Church existed in Williamsburg prior to 1870, and moved to Waltonville before 1906. This church was still operating as late as 1980. Waltonville was for many years the smallest town in the United States to have a Universalist Church. This may be another reflection of the numerous obscure ethnic groups that maintained an identity in the rural coal fields of Southern Illinois.

Many underground coal mines were opened near Waltonville. Immigrants came to work these mines, mainly from Poland. By the 1950s, the rural areas west of Waltonville were predominantly Polish, and the main language spoken was Polish. That language slowly faded with the advent of television. Today, only a few people speak any Polish. Many still identify as Polish, though, and they continue to attend St. Barbara's Catholic Church in nearby Scheller.

Geography
Waltonville is located in southwestern Jefferson County. Illinois Route 148 passes through the southeast part of the village, leading northeast 13 mi to Mount Vernon, the county seat, and south 8 mi to Sesser.

According to the 2010 census, Waltonville has a total area of 1.201 sqmi, of which 1.18 sqmi (or 98.25%) is land and 0.021 sqmi (or 1.75%) is water.

Waltonville is in the northeast corner of Bald Hill Township, the southeast corner of Blissville Township, the southeast corner of McClellan Township, and the northwest corner of Elk Prairie Township. Most of the developed parts of the village are in Bald Hill and Elk Prairie townships.

Blissville Township was named in honor of Augustus Bliss, who lived in nearby Casner Township, and who started a settlement in 1841. Blissville was located about 8 mi northwest of Waltonville. Bliss caught the gold fever in 1849, but died of cholera on his way to California.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 422 people, 177 households, and 121 families residing in the village. The population density was 440.6 PD/sqmi. There were 190 housing units at an average density of 198.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.82% White, 0.47% Native American, and 0.71% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.18% of the population.

There were 177 households, out of which 32.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.8% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.1% were non-families. 30.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.97.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 27.7% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 31.3% from 25 to 44, 17.5% from 45 to 64, and 17.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $24,318, and the median income for a family was $32,750. Males had a median income of $26,607 versus $16,875 for females. The per capita income for the village was $12,233. About 12.9% of families and 16.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.4% of those under age 18 and 22.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Waltonville, Illinois


text:
Woodlawn, Illinois

Woodlawn is a village in Jefferson County, Illinois, United States. The population was 698 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Mount Vernon Micropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Woodlawn is part of the Mount Vernon Micropolitan Statistical Area.

According to the 2010 census, the village has a total area of 0.86 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 630 people, 241 households, and 185 families residing in the village. The population density was 882.3 PD/sqmi. There were 260 housing units at an average density of 364.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.57% White, 0.16% African American, 0.16% Native American, 0.32% from other races, and 0.79% from two or more races.

There were 241 households, out of which 41.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.3% were married couples living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.2% were non-families. 20.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the village the population was spread out, with 31.4% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 34.8% from 25 to 44, 16.0% from 45 to 64, and 11.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $40,000, and the median income for a family was $46,250. Males had a median income of $40,104 versus $19,643 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,013. About 8.0% of families and 11.4% of the population were living below the poverty line, including 18.1% of those under the age of 18 and 11.1% ages 65 or older.

Schools
Woodlawn schools consist of Woodlawn C. C. School District 4, with a K-8 elementary school and Woodlawn Community High School District 205 (183 students, 2011–12).

In recent years, the high school boys' basketball team has reached the 1A state tournament 4 times, placing second in 2009, third in 2011, winning the Illinois High School Association Class 1A Championship in 2012, and bringing home a fourth-place trophy in 2016.

The high school baseball team reached the elite eight in 2011 and 2017.

The high school volleyball team brought home a fourth-place trophy in the Illinois High School Association 1A State Tournament in 2014–2015 school year.

The Woodlawn Grade School Boys track team placed 2nd in the 2022 Southern Illinois Junior High School Athletic Association (SIJHSAA) State Track Meet. At the 2022 SIJHSAA Class S State Finals, 7th Grader Keaton (Keko) Koch, of Woodlawn Grade School, won the SIJHSAA Class S State Championship in the 100 meter hurdles, the 200 meter dash and the 7th Grade 100 meter dash. Koch also set state records in the 100 meter hurdles and the 7th Grade 100 meter dash.

In October 2022 the Woodlawn Grade School Boys Baseball Team took first place in the SIJHSAA Class S Boys Baseball State Tournament. That team, coached by head coach Jacob Frick and assistant coach David Remer, had a record of 20 wins and 3 losses. The team consisted of the following players: Brighym Bequette, Nick Cary, Tyson Frick, Trevor McClure, Ian Bennett, KJ Harrison, James Remer, Dawson Rubenacker, CJ Stewart, Jacob Baum, Lochlyn Bell, Laken Kirkpatrick, Josiah Orrill, Lucas Webb, Bowen Byerley, Austin Chesnek and Trip Oller.

On February 11, 2023, the Woodlawn Grade School Boys Basketball Team took first place in the SIJHSAA Class S Boys Basketball State Tournament. That team, coached by head coach Jeff Burkett and assistants Tony Kirkpatrick and Kevin Oller, had a record of 30 wins and 1 loss. (The only loss was to Class L Zadok Casey Jr. High of Mt. Vernon- the eventual SIJHSAA Class L State Champion.) Members of the 2022-2023 Woodlawn Grade School Varsity Boys Basketball team included: Carter Webb, Dawson Rubenacker, Liam Beckham, Laken Kirkpatrick, Colton Jackson, Josiah Orrill, Nick Cary, Tucker Downes, Grayden Shively, Keaton (Keko) Koch, Luke McKay, Trevor McClure (1,000 point scorer), Tyson Frick & Ian Bennett.

title: Woodlawn, Illinois


text:
Brighton, Illinois

Brighton is a village located mostly in Macoupin County and partially in Jersey County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, the village had a population of 2,221. The village's current mayor is Matthew P. Kasten.

Brighton is a part of the Metro East region of the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Brighton is a small community that dates back to the early 19th century, when settlers began the transformation of the Illinois prairie into productive farmland. The village was named after Brighton, Massachusetts. A post office was opened in 1837, and the village was incorporated in 1869. Brighton is noted for its five-star historic museum.

Brighton currently has two restaurants and one traffic signal.

Geography
Brighton is located in southwestern Macoupin County and eastern Jersey County at 39.03944°N, -90.13972°W (39.039357, -90.139645). The village center and most of its area are within Macoupin County. Some rural residents of Madison County have Brighton mailing addresses.

Illinois Routes 111 and 267 pass jointly through the west side of the village, leading north 9 mi to Medora and south 6 mi to Godfrey. Carlinville, the Macoupin county seat, is 26 mi to the northeast, while Jerseyville, the Jersey county seat, is 13 mi to the northwest.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village of Brighton has a total area of 1.96 sqmi, of which 1.92 sqmi are land and 0.04 sqmi, or 1.99%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,254 people. The population density was 1,364.2 PD/sqmi. There were 855 housing units at an average density of 531.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.41% White, 0.05% African American, 0.05% Native American, 0.46% Asian, 0.05% Pacific Islander, 0.14% from other races, and 0.87% from two or more races. 1.09% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 816 households, of which 38.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.9% were married couples living together, 9.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.4% were non-families. 22.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the village, the age distribution of the population shows 26.6% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 28.4% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 14.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.0 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $38,750, and the median income for a family was $43,167. Males had a median income of $37,150 versus $23,616 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,453. 6.5% of the population and 6.8% of families were below the poverty line. Of the total population, 7.7% of those under the age of 18 and 8.2% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line.

Notable people

 * Joe Bernard, pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals
 * Jason Isringhausen, pitcher for the New York Mets, St. Louis Cardinals, and Tampa Bay Rays
 * Bushrod Johnson, Confederate general in the American Civil War

title: Brighton, Illinois


text:
Elsah, Illinois

Elsah is a village in Jersey County, Illinois. As of the 2020 census, the village had a total population of 519. Michael Pitchford is the village's current acting mayor.

It is the home of Principia College.

Elsah is a part of the Metro-East region and the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Elsah is located at 38.95361°N, -90.35472°W (38.953720, -90.354732).

According to the 2010 census, the village has a total area of 1.09 sqmi, all land.

History
James Semple, a local lawyer, prominent politician and United States Senator from Illinois, founded Elsah in 1853 and offered free lots to anyone who built houses with stone from his quarry. It is believed that he named the village of Elsah after Ailsa Craig, the last outcropping his family saw as they departed Scotland for the United States. By 1861, the village had grown to its current size, as geographic and economic limitations prevented further expansion.

Although Elsah has been described as the "New England of the Midwest," the village is not a New England prototype derived from 18th century colonial styles. Rather, the architecture found in Elsah demonstrates 19th century styles and fashions including Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Mansard, Italianate, Saltbox, and Gambrel. Elsah prospered as the main shipping point for the agricultural goods produced by the farmers of Jersey County. The village's importance diminished with the coming of the railroad, later being revitalized when Principia College was established in the 1930s.

Eliestoun House was completed in 1890 by Alexander Wadsworth Longfellow Jr. The house is on the grounds of Principia College and named after "'Elliestoun Tower' on Castle Semple Loch" which is part of the Lands of Elliston in Scotland. Henry Turner and his wife Ada Ames had the house built. Ada is a descendant of James Semple.

Elsah remained mainly a quiet village until the opening of the Great River Road (Illinois Route 100) in 1964. Elsah is a community whose homes are privately owned. In 1973, the entire village was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Great Flood of 1993 caused significant damage to many of the village's structures.

The historic commercial district on LaSalle Street, which extends three blocks inward from the river, consists mainly of stone buildings; all but one of its pre-1861 buildings, including all four of the village's historic taverns, still stand. The other two districts are both located on Mill Street and are primarily residential; the larger one is three blocks long and has an assortment of stone and brick houses, while the smaller section has a single block of Greek Revival homes.

Today, Elsah's proximity to bald eagle watching locations make it a popular destination during the fall and winter seasons. Elsah's location on the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail also makes it a popular stop for bicyclists enjoying the Great River Road in any season.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 635 people, 69 households, and 40 families residing in the village. The population density was 598.1 PD/sqmi. There were 102 housing units at an average density of 96.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 90.08% White, 4.25% African American, 0.63% Native American, 0.79% Asian, 0.16% Pacific Islander, 1.42% from other races, and 2.68% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.31% of the population.

There were 69 households, out of which 23.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.3% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.6% were non-families. 40.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.04 and the average family size was 2.71.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 4.6% under the age of 18, 77.0% from 18 to 24, 6.3% from 25 to 44, 8.0% from 45 to 64, and 4.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 21 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.6 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $57,083, and the median income for a family was $60,000. Males had a median income of $47,500 versus $26,964 for females. The per capita income for the village was $13,154. None of the population or families were below the poverty line.

Education
Elsah includes Principia College, a four-year liberal-arts private college for Christian Scientists. The campus area, known as the Principia College Historic District, was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1993, and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places that same year.

Geography
The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway passes through Elsah. The Elsah area was also one of the two finalists for the site of the Air Force Academy in 1954.

Notable people

 * Robert Duvall, Academy Award-winning actor, is an alumnus of Principia College in Elsah
 * Herbert G. Giberson, Illinois state senator and businessman
 * James Semple, United States Senator from Illinois, diplomat of New Granada, and founder of Elsah

title: Elsah, Illinois


text:
Fidelity, Illinois

Fidelity is a village in Jersey County, Illinois, United States, located about thirty-five miles north of Saint Louis, Missouri. As of the 2020 census, the village had a total population of 96.

The village is usually noted for its postmark.

Geography
Fidelity is located at 39.15472°N, -90.16389°W (39.154636, -90.163947).

According to the 2010 census, Fidelity has a total area of 0.11 sqmi, all land.

History
In 1829, people from Tennessee reportedly traveled across this site. According to local legend, a horse belonging to settler Joseph Russell went lame, stranding Russell, who was offered a replacement horse by another settler, Samuel Simmons.

The legend continues that Russell replied, "That's true fidelity."

In another version of events, Joseph Russell and his brother William were traveling from Hawkins County, TN, to Missouri. They were looking for cheap, good land. They set up camp in present day Fidelity. They hobbled their horses and went to sleep. When they woke, they found that William's horse had tried to escape and injured its foot. Stuck with only one horse, William said "Joseph, you take my horse to finish the trip and get back to East Tennessee, and I'll stay here and keep your horse with me until his foot gets well." William exclaimed "Well, that's what I call real fidelity!" William continued to St Louis, surveyed a tract of land, and went back to Tennessee. On July 31, 1849, William wrote to Joseph about his intentions to name the town " Fidelity."

Simmons built a log cabin there, and in 1850, Russell and his brother also settled in the area. The Russell brothers are credited with having ensured the town was officially named Fidelity. A post office was established in the village in 1854. During the mid-20th century, Fidelity was reportedly the site of "a small Army barracks, grain elevator, several doctors and dentists, a blacksmith shop and grocery stores."

Since then, Fidelity has become a tiny village made up mostly of small homes. The post office is now the only remaining business and its postmark has enjoyed some popularity for use on Valentine's Day greetings, with several hundred requests for cancellations received from addresses both in the United States and around the world each year.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 105 people, 41 households, and 30 families residing in the village. The population density was 941.2 PD/sqmi. There were 44 housing units at an average density of 394.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 100.00% White.

There were 41 households, out of which 46.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.2% were married couples living together, 12.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.4% were non-families. 17.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 2.77.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 29.5% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 30.5% from 25 to 44, 25.7% from 45 to 64, and 8.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.7 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $17,500, and the median income for a family was $17,083. Males had a median income of $30,625 versus $21,250 for females. The per capita income for the village was $7,798. There were 27.6% of families and 28.2% of the population living below the poverty line, including 29.0% of under eighteens and 13.3% of those over 64.

title: Fidelity, Illinois


text:
Fieldon, Illinois

Fieldon is a village in Jersey County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, the village had a total population of 176. The village's current mayor is Julia Dixon.

Geography
Fieldon is located at 39.10806°N, -90.5°W (39.108184, -90.500048).

According to the 2010 census, Fieldon has a total area of 0.2 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 271 people, 103 households, and 79 families residing in the village. The population density was 1,362.1 PD/sqmi. There were 110 housing units at an average density of 552.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 100.00% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.11% of the population.

There were 103 households, out of which 31.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.0% were married couples living together, 5.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.3% were non-families. 18.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.63 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 26.2% under the age of 18, 5.9% from 18 to 24, 29.5% from 25 to 44, 21.8% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.0 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $38,393, and the median income for a family was $40,156. Males had a median income of $32,250 versus $19,583 for females. The per capita income for the village was $14,811. None of the families and 0.8% of the population were living below the poverty line.

Education
Fieldon is served by the public K-12 Jersey Community Unit School District 100. Fieldon Elementary School was located in the village until 2012, when it was permanently closed due to district realignment.

title: Fieldon, Illinois


text:
Grafton, Illinois

Grafton is the oldest city in Jersey County, Illinois, United States. It is located near the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. As of the 2020 census, the city had a total population of 626. Prior to the Great Flood of 1993, Grafton had enjoyed a stable population of nearly 1,000 residents.

Grafton is a part of the Metro-East region and Greater St. Louis.

History
Founded in 1832 by James Mason, Grafton is the oldest city in Jersey County. Described as having "a post office, one store, one tavern, and a number of families" in 1834, the area was being settled as early as 1812 when a blockhouse was built at the confluence for protection. The city was named after Mason's birthplace of Grafton, Massachusetts. Grafton was incorporated on May 16, 1907.

Grafton's population reached its peak at approximately 10,000 in the 1850s with employment opportunities coming from the local stone quarries, boat building and commercial fishing. At one point, there were five quarries in or around Grafton that employed nearly 2,000 men. The local limestone was used to build the Eads Bridge in St. Louis, government buildings in Rock Island, and the Jersey County Courthouse in Jerseyville. The Shafer's Wharf Historic District was one of the largest commercial fishing centers along the Mississippi River in the late 19th century. The Old Boatworks, located south of Main Street, once housed a paint house and a machine shop where paddle wheelers and later PT boats were built. Today, the Old Boatworks building hosts many antique and craft stalls and is open on the fourth weekend of each month from May through October.

The Great Flood of 1993 caused significant damage to many of Grafton's structures, and a third of the city's residents moved away. The effects of the flood are still evident and the city's population has not recovered.

Geography
Grafton is located at 38.97111°N, -90.43694°W (38.971115, -90.436818).

According to the 2010 census, Grafton has a total area of 3.7 sqmi, all land.

Climate
Typically, the city's climate reflects most Midwest cities, located in the transitional zone between the humid continental climate type and the humid subtropical climate type (Köppen Dfa and Cfa, respectively), with neither large mountains nor large bodies of water to moderate its temperature. Spring is the wettest season and produces severe weather ranging from tornadoes to snow or ice storms. Summers are hot and humid, and the humidity often makes the heat index rise to temperatures feeling well above 100 °F. Fall is mild with lower humidity and can produce intermittent bouts of heavy rainfall with the first snow flurries usually forming in late November. Winters can be cold at times with periodic light snow and temperatures below freezing.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 609 people, 265 households, and 174 families residing in the city. The population density was 150.2 PD/sqmi. There were 293 housing units at an average density of 72.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.01% White, 0.16% African American, 0.16% Native American, and 0.66% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.99% of the population.

There were 265 households, out of which 23.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.7% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.0% were non-families. 29.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 2.84.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.0% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 23.3% from 25 to 44, 31.2% from 45 to 64, and 17.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $34,706, and the median income for a family was $44,250. Males had a median income of $35,000 versus $22,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $21,989. About 9.4% of families and 14.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 33.3% of those under age 18 and 10.6% of those age 65 or over.

Economy
Grafton's main industry is tourism. The city is at the center of the region's bald eagle watching area and proudly calls itself "The Winter Home of The Bald Eagle." Main Street is lined with restaurants, antique, craft, and wine shops, which make Grafton a popular stopping place for bicyclists on the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail or for visitors in search of fall foliage color and bald eagles. During the warmer months, visitors can take advantage of the two rivers with boating, canoeing and parasailing activities. There are two river ferries in the Grafton area that provide transportation to St. Charles County, Missouri and Calhoun County. Five miles west of Grafton is Pere Marquette State Park, which is Illinois' largest and most popular state park.

Grafton experienced modest economic growth from 2000-2010, including some new housing and restaurants, the Grafton Elementary School, the Grafton Harbor marina, and a lighthouse located along the Mississippi River.

National Register of Historic Places
Grafton has seven places and sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Grafton Historic District, Grafton Bank, the John and Amelia McClintock House, Ruebel Hotel, the Slaten-LaMarsh House, and the Paris Mason Building were all added in 1994. The Charles Brainerd House was added to the Register in 1998.

Government
Grafton uses a city council form of government and consists of a mayor and six aldermen from three wards. The city's current mayor is Michael Morrow.

Public schools
Grafton is served by the public K-12 Jersey Community Unit School District 100. District schools in Grafton include Grafton Elementary School.

Colleges and universities
Nearby colleges and universities include Principia College, in Elsah, and Lewis and Clark Community College, in Godfrey.

Transportation
Illinois Route 100 runs along a west–east route through the city. It is part of the Great River Road and the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway. Also, Illinois Route 3 has its northern terminus in Grafton at Illinois Route 100.

There are two ferries that serve Grafton. The Grafton Ferry takes travelers across the Mississippi River to St. Charles County, Missouri, while the Brussels Ferry takes travelers across the Illinois River to Calhoun County, Illinois.

Utilities
Utility companies serving Grafton are Ameren (natural gas and electricity), Grafton Telephone (landline telephone service and internet), and PC One Cable (cable television). Water services are no longer provided and maintained by the city and are currently purchased from another source.

Notable person

 * Ed Baecht, former pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Browns

title: Grafton, Illinois


text:
Jerseyville, Illinois

Jerseyville is the largest city in and the county seat of Jersey County, Illinois, United States. At the 2020 census, the city had a total population of 8,337.

Jerseyville is a part of Southern Illinois, the Metro-East region and the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
In 1827, James Faulkner, a Pennsylvania native, and his family built a small framed structure that was named the "Little Red House," in the area that is now known as Jerseyville. The "Little Red House" served as the first stagecoach station, first tavern, first school, and first bank in the immediate area. By 1834, the small settlement that grew up around Faulkner's home, then known as Hickory Grove by its residents, was surveyed and platted by two immigrants from New Jersey, John Lott and Edward M. Daly. Lott and Daly's involvement marked the beginning of a proportionally large number of merchants, businessmen and settlers from New Jersey. A meeting was called in that same year at the "Little Red House" to vote for a town name, so a post office could be established. The name of Jerseyville was chosen to honor the native state of many of its inhabitants. In 1839, Jersey County was formed out of Greene County and Jerseyville was named as its county seat.

Jerseyville was a minor stopping point on the historic Underground Railroad before and during the Civil War. The "Little Red House" and a few other residences were utilized as stations for the Underground Railroad until the end of the Civil War, with some residences having false cellars that were used to hide slaves searching for freedom.

After the American Civil War ended, and the construction of the Alton & Chicago Railroad was completed, Jerseyville saw a period of commercial, industrial and urban growth. The first major period of growth in the city occurred from 1880 to 1916, and from that time to the present, Jerseyville's growth has since been steady and substantial. The majority of the commercial structures that are now located in the Downtown Historic District and Courthouse Square were built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was also during this time that the present Jersey County Courthouse was built. The two-story, 124 ft Romanesque Revival building was completed in 1893, and is considered to be one of the most aesthetic courthouses in the area. Other nearby Victorian style buildings in the city include Queen Anne, Edwardian and Italianate architectural features, with several of these buildings having been recently renovated.

From 1912 to 1918, Jerseyville was the terminus of an interurban electric passenger railroad from Alton which was the stub of a project by the Alton, Jacksonville and Peoria Railway for a line to Peoria.

In recent decades, Jerseyville has been a testing ground in the agricultural biotechnology field. Bayer (formerly Monsanto) owns and operates a facility located just south of the city, which in 1987, was the site of the world's very first biotechnology field trial – first with tomatoes and later that year with soybeans. The facility was also home to the first triple stacked corn trial in 1998, which later became a part of one of Monsanto's top-selling products. The facility was further expanded in 2008, and now consists of sixteen greenhouses and almost 300 acres of land for field testing.

The Downtown Historic District is presently home to some antique stores and gift shops, some clothing and shoe stores, a pharmacy, public library, post office, and several local restaurants and banks. Most of the growth that has occurred since the early 1990s has been in the southern and southwestern portions of the city, where new residential subdivisions and retail shopping centers have been built, and where numerous land annexations have been made by the city.

Geography
Jerseyville is located at 39.12083°N, -90.3275°W (39.120789, -90.327545).

According to the 2010 census, Jerseyville has a total area of 5.08 sqmi, all land.

Climate
Typically, the city's climate reflects most Midwest cities, located in the transitional zone between the humid continental climate type and the humid subtropical climate type (Köppen Dfa and Cfa, respectively), with neither large mountains nor large bodies of water to moderate its temperature. Spring is the wettest season and produces severe weather ranging from tornadoes to snow or ice storms. Summers are hot and humid, and the humidity often makes the heat index rise to temperatures feeling well above 100 °F. Fall is mild with lower humidity and can produce intermittent bouts of heavy rainfall with the first snow flurries usually forming in late November. Winters can be cold at times with periodic light snow and temperatures below freezing.

In recent years, average temperatures in Jerseyville have ranged from a low of 19.2 °F in January to a high of 86.5 °F in July. The record low temperature of -25 °F was recorded in January 1977 and the record high temperature of 112 °F was recorded in July 1954. Average monthly precipitation ranges from 2.31 in in February to 5.29 in in May.

Demographics

As of the census of 2000, there were 7,984 people, 3,260 households, and 2,089 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,817.9 PD/sqmi. There were 3,423 housing units at an average density of 779.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.85% White, 0.09% African American, 0.18% Native American, 0.16% Asian, 0.10% from other races, and 0.63% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.54% of the population.

There were 3,260 households, out of which 31.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.1% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.9% were non-families. 32.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35, and the average family size was 2.97.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.4% under the age of 18, 8.1% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 20.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,556, and the median income for a family was $46,832. Males had a median income of $37,312 versus $21,282 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,178. About 5.8% of families and 7.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.5% of those under age 18 and 4.7% of those age 65 or over.

National Register of Historic Places
Jerseyville has five places and sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Jersey County Courthouse and the Jerseyville Downtown Historic District were added in 1986. The Col. William H. Fulkerson Farmstead was added to the Register in 1998, and the Fisher-Chapman Farmstead was added in 2012. The Jerseyville First Presbyterian Church was added to the Register in 2021.

Media
Print / Online:
 * Daily newspaper: The Telegraph - published out of Alton, but also covers the Jerseyville and Jersey County areas
 * Weekly newspaper: The Jersey County Journal - distributed every Thursday and available online
 * Weekly classifieds: The Jersey County Advantage - print only

Radio: Jerseyville is also served by most stations in the St. Louis area market.
 * WJBM 1480 kHz AM / 104.7 mHz FM - has a talk radio / country music format
 * KXI70 162.450 mHz - NOAA Weather Radio

Recreation
The Jerseyville Parks and Recreation Department maintains and operates seven parks:

 * Blackorby Athletic Field - Franklin Ave.
 * Dolan Park - June and Spruce St.
 * Lions Club Park - Jefferson and Spruce St.
 * Northmoor Park - Liberty St.
 * Rotary Club Centennial Park - Liberty, Prairie, and Carpenter St. (Illinois Route 16)
 * Wittman Park - Jefferson St.
 * Wock Family Lake - June St. and Fidelity Rd.

The Donald W. Snyders Community Sports Complex is located on the southern side of the city on County Road, east of Jersey Community Middle School. The complex is made up of two baseball fields, two softball fields, one football field, outdoor oval track, and a concession stand. The complex, which is maintained by Jersey Community Unit School District 100, replaced the previous oval track and football field at Jersey Community High School, as the building was built on top of the field in 2005.

Government
Jerseyville uses a city commission form of government, consisting of four commissioners and one mayor. The city's current mayor is Kevin Stork.

Education
Jerseyville has a number of public and private schools. Public schools are part of Jersey Community Unit School District 100.

 * Elementary schools
 * East Elementary School (Grades 3 through 5)
 * West Elementary School (Grades Pre-K through 2)
 * Holy Ghost School (Grades Pre-K through 4)

 * Middle schools
 * Jersey Community Middle School (Grades 5 through 7)
 * St. Francis Xavier School (Grades 5 through 8)

 * High school
 * Jersey Community High School (Grades 8th through 12th)

Both Holy Ghost and St. Francis Xavier Schools are private Roman Catholic schools.

Schools in Jerseyville had a total combined enrollment of 2,720 students.

Nearby colleges and universities include Principia College, in Elsah, and Lewis and Clark Community College, in Godfrey.

Religious organizations
Jerseyville is home to a number of religious organizations, consisting of both small and large congregations.

Churches that serve Jerseyville are listed here in alphabetical order:

 * Church of the Nazarene
 * Eastland Baptist Church
 * Faith Temple Pentecostal Church
 * First Assembly of God
 * First Baptist Church
 * First Church of Christ, Scientist
 * First Presbyterian Church
 * Gospel Assembly Church
 * Grace Community Baptist Church
 * Holy Ghost Church
 * Hope Lutheran Church
 * Jerseyville Church of Christ
 * Jerseyville Methodist Church
 * Kingdom Increase Church
 * LifechurchX
 * Open Door House of Praise
 * Peace United Church of Christ
 * St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church
 * Victory Baptist Church

Transportation
Two major highways run through the city. US Highway 67 runs along a north–south route, while Illinois Route 16 runs along a west–east route. Also, Illinois Route 109 has its northern terminus in Jerseyville at US Highway 67.

A four-lane expansion of US Highway 67 in Jerseyville has been in the planning stages for years, and is currently in Illinois' five-year road construction plan. The plan includes the Jerseyville Bypass, which is expected to go around the eastern portion of the city when it is completed. Construction of the bypass has not started yet, but all of the work prior to actual road construction was scheduled to be completed by 2012. In nearby Delhi, an extension of the expressway was opened up to traffic in 2021. This is a part of the completion of the entire US Highway 67 four-lane project in Illinois between Godfrey and the Quad Cities area.

Utilities
Utility companies serving Jerseyville are Ameren (natural gas and electricity), Grafton Technologies and Frontier Communications (landline telephone service and internet), and Sparklight (cable television). Water and sewer services are provided and maintained by Illinois American Water.

Notable people

 * Kathie Conway, member of the Missouri House of Representatives
 * Hugh W. Cross, (1896-1972) former Illinois Lieutenant Governor and member of the Illinois House of Representatives
 * Russell E. Dunham, (1920-2009) World War II veteran and recipient of the Medal of Honor. He resided in Jerseyville.
 * Brent Hawkins, former football player for the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL, and for the Jacksonville Jaguars of the NFL
 * Arthur Scott King, (1876–1957) noted physicist and astrophysicist
 * Anthony L. Knapp, (1828–1881) US congressman and Illinois senator
 * Robert M. Knapp, (1831–1889) US congressman and former mayor of Jerseyville
 * Stan McGarvey, former NCAA Division II head football coach.
 * Thomas J. Selby, (1840–1917) congressman and former mayor of Jerseyville
 * Jim Watson, former member of the Illinois House of Representatives

title: Jerseyville, Illinois


text:
Otterville, Illinois

Otterville is an incorporated town in Jersey County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, the town had a total population of 87.

Geography
Otterville is located at 39.05111°N, -90.3975°W (39.051073, -90.397601).

According to the 2010 census, Otterville has a total area of 1.01 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 120 people, 41 households, and 33 families residing in the town. The population density was 119.8 PD/sqmi. There were 43 housing units at an average density of 42.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.67% White, 1.67% Native American, and 1.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.50% of the population.

There were 41 households, out of which 41.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.9% were married couples living together, 9.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.5% were non-families. 17.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.93 and the average family size was 3.36.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 34.2% under the age of 18, 5.8% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 25.0% from 45 to 64, and 8.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $34,063, and the median income for a family was $34,375. Males had a median income of $33,000 versus $16,000 for females. The per capita income for the town was $10,588. There were 14.7% of families and 14.6% of the population living below the poverty line, including 19.4% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Notable people

 * John B. Hamilton, (1847–1898) served as the U.S. Surgeon General from 1879 to 1891
 * Stephen V. White, (1831–1913) US congressman from New York

History
Otterville is the home of the first free integrated school in the United States, the Hamilton Primary School, located on Main Street. In 1834, Dr. Silas Hamilton, a local physician, left $4,000 for the construction and operation of a building for educational and religious purposes. A stone-built school was opened in 1836, and the tuition-free education for local students attracted families to the area. The school was razed in 1872, and was rebuilt and enlarged, with the original stones at the base. Classes were held at the school until 1971. George Washington, a slave freed by Dr. Hamilton, studied here, became successful, and established a perpetual scholarship fund for Americans of African descent. He also provided for the erection of a monument to his former master at the school.

The school was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

title: Otterville, Illinois


text:
Apple River, Illinois

Apple River is a village in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, United States. The population was 347 at the 2020 census, down from 366 in 2010.

History
The first home built in Apple River was by a man known as Daniel Robbins in 1832. By 1854 the Illinois Central Railroad was built through the township, the same year as the town's first general store owned by J. M. Irvine. Despite a vote being held in 1868, Apple River would not be incorporated as a village until 1870.

Geography
Apple River is located at 42.50306°N, -90.09722°W (42.502998, -90.097209).

According to the 2010 census, Apple River has a total area of 0.79 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 379 people, 159 households, and 102 families residing in the village. The population density was 479.6 PD/sqmi. There were 187 housing units at an average density of 236.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.94% White, 0.79% African American, and 0.26% from two or more races.

There were 159 households, out of which 30.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.9% were married couples living together, 9.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.8% were non-families. 32.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 27.7% under the age of 18, 5.3% from 18 to 24, 30.3% from 25 to 44, 19.5% from 45 to 64, and 17.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.3 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $40,250, and the median income for a family was $51,042. Males had a median income of $35,893 versus $21,103 for females. The per capita income for the village was $18,267. About 8.8% of families and 10.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8% of those under age 18 and 13.3% of those age 65 or over.

Notable residents

 * Terrence Ingram

title: Apple River, Illinois


text:
East Dubuque, Illinois

East Dubuque is a city in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, United States. The population was 1,505 at the 2020 census, down from 1,704 in 2010. East Dubuque is located alongside the Mississippi River. Across the river is the city of Dubuque, Iowa. The city limits extend along the river to the Illinois-Wisconsin border.

History
East Dubuque was originally called Dunleith, and under the latter name was platted in 1853. The present name comes from the city's location east of Dubuque. A post office was established at Dunleith in 1854, and the post office was renamed East Dubuque in 1879.

Transportation
The main roads in East Dubuque are Sinsinawa Avenue and U.S. Route 20 (Wall Street). The Julien Dubuque Bridge serves as the connection between East Dubuque and Dubuque. Illinois Route 35 serves as the primary connection between East Dubuque and Wisconsin. The East Dubuque station previously provided another transportation choice for residents of East Dubuque.

Geography
East Dubuque is located at 42.49111°N, -90.64111°W (42.491103, -90.641214).

According to the 2010 census, East Dubuque has a total area of 2.891 sqmi, of which 2.81 sqmi (or 97.2%) is land and 0.081 sqmi (or 2.8%) is water.

Like the rest of Jo Daviess County, the city is topographically a part of the Driftless Area.

2020 census
As of the census of 2020, the population was 1,505. The population density was 548.9 PD/sqmi. There were 771 housing units at an average density of 281.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.5% White, 1.3% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.3% Pacific Islander, 0.2% Native American, 1.3% from other races, and 4.1% from two or more races. Ethnically, the population was 2.3% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,995 people, 864 households, and 527 families residing in the city. The population density was 967.4 PD/sqmi. There were 932 housing units at an average density of 451.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.1% White, 0.15% African American, 0.05% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 0.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 1.05% of the population.

There were 864 households, out of which 27.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.1% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.9% were non-families. 34% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.97.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.3% under the age of 18, 8.8% from 18 to 24, 28.4% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 16% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,099, and the median income for a family was $45,924. Males had a median income of $31,010 versus $19,459 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,984. About 2.1% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.3% of those under age 18 and 6.9% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Arthur Joseph O'Neill, Roman Catholic bishop

Prominent landmarks

 * East Dubuque School
 * Julien Dubuque Bridge

title: East Dubuque, Illinois


text:
Elizabeth, Illinois

Elizabeth is a village in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, United States. The population was 761 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Elizabeth is located at 42.31694°N, -90.22333°W (42.317007, -90.223231).

According to the 2010 census, Elizabeth has a total area of 0.78 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the 2000 United States Census, there were 682 people, 309 households, and 177 families residing in the village. The population density was 1,554.8 PD/sqmi. There were 343 housing units at an average density of 782 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.97% White, 0.15% African American, 0.15% Asian, and 0.73% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 0.15% of the population.

There were 309 households, out of which 21% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.9% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no spouse present, and 42.4% were non-families. 39.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.05 and the average family size was 2.74.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 17.4% under the age of 18, 5.9% from 18 to 24, 21.8% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 32.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 79.9 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $33,587, and the median income for a family was $41,354. Males had a median income of $27,917 versus $23,636 for females. The per capita income for the village was $17,235. About 4.5% of families and 8.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.5% of those under age 18 and 13.7% of those age 65 or over.

Printed media
Although a settlement of modest size, Elizabeth incorporated in 1868, has a long history of printed media. It was first served by the Elizabeth News, starting at the latest in 1889. In 1913 or 1914 the paper changed its name to the Elizabeth Weekly News. The Elizabeth Weekly continued its publication until 1979. A second newspaper, the Elizabeth Times, was published in the village from 1937 through 1955.

Education
River Ridge Community Unit School District 210 operates area public schools, including River Ridge High School.

Notable residents
Former U.S. Congressman John C. McKenzie lived most of his life in Elizabeth and is buried at Elizabeth Cemetery.

Leo E. Allen, 14-term U.S. Congressman, was born in Elizabeth.

Notable multi-instrumentalist Andrew Bird has a home on a farm just outside this village.

Wisconsin musical act Phox is currently writing / recording their second album in Elizabeth. No concrete details, including a release date, have been released.

title: Elizabeth, Illinois


text:
Galena, Illinois

Galena is the largest city in and the county seat of Jo Daviess County, Illinois, United States. It had a population of 3,308 at the 2020 census. A 581 acre section of the city is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Galena Historic District. The city is named for the mineral galena, which was in the ore that formed the basis for the region's early lead mining economy.

Native Americans, primarily Meskwaki, Ho-Chunk, Sauk, and Menominee had mined galena in the area for more than a thousand years before European Americans settled in the area. Owing to these deposits, Galena was the site of the first major mineral rush in the United States. By 1828, the population was estimated at 10,000, rivaling the population of Chicago at the time. Galena developed as the largest steamboat hub on the Mississippi River north of St. Louis. Galena was the home of Ulysses S. Grant and eight other Civil War generals. Today, the city is a tourist destination known for its history, architecture, and resorts.

Precolonial and colonial history
The city is named for galena, the natural form of lead sulfide (PbS) and the most important lead ore. Native Americans mined the ore for use in burial rituals. The Havana Hopewell first traded galena in the area during the Middle Woodland period (c. 1–400 CE). However, the use of galena in the Havana territory is uncertain; very little has been identified in burial mounds. During the Mississippian period (900–1500 CE), galena saw use as body paint.

In 1658 French explorers, probably via contact with the Sioux, first noted lead deposits in the Upper Mississippi Valley. A 1703 French map identified the northwestern Illinois area as mines de plumb. Northwestern Illinois was inhabited by the Sauk and Meskwaki when the French arrived. In the 1690s, French trappers discovered the area and began mining the lead. However, conflicts with the Sioux prevented large-scale mining until Julien Dubuque's Mines opened across the river in 1788.

The French named the settlement as La Pointe, and early American settlers adopted this name as "The Point" after the United States acquired the territory in the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. Early documentation officially records the name as "Fever River" for the wild beans that grew there, an early name for the Galena River.

This name did not appear to be widely used. George Davenport, a retired colonel in the United States Army, successfully shipped Galena's first boatload of lead ore in 1816 down the Mississippi River. Three years later, Jesse W. Shull built a trading post. The Thomas H. January family, who arrived in 1821 from Maysville, Kentucky, are considered the first permanent American settlers. The next year, the US Department of War assumed control of the mines and leased the lands out to operators. A large group of colonists led by Dr. Moses Meeker and James Harris arrived in 1823. Steamboat trade began in 1824.

American Boomtown
The first official lease of the mines on behalf of the US government was dated September 30, 1822 and made to James Johnson, brother of US Senator Richard Mentor Johnson. Martin Thomas, appointed by the government in 1824 to oversee mine leases, was commissioned to survey the mines in 1826.

The name "Galena" was purportedly proposed during a town meeting that year; rejected names included Jackson, Harrison, and Jo Daviess. After Thomas platted the town, starting in June 1827, settlers could lease plots from the government. The land remained in government possession until the leasing system was eased out in 1836–37. When Jo Daviess County was founded in 1827, Galena was named its county seat. This established the first courts in Galena; previous legal proceedings were heard in front of the Superintendent of Lead Mines. 21 million pounds of lead were mined in Galena from 1825 to 1828, and the population skyrocketed in that time from 200 to 10,000.

Local native tribes, then mostly Meskwaki and Ho-Chunk, permitted settlers to mine in established areas in Galena. However, the growth of the city led settlers to encroach on native land claims, as they sought new veins of lead. Following a murder of a pioneer family near Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, by the Winnebago, Galena closed its mines for safety and European-American residents prepared for war. They constructed forts at nearby Elizabeth and Apple River; although these were not used during the conflict, the forts provided residents with security and protection. The ensuing Winnebago War was little more than a skirmish, but as a result, the US annexed more lands near the city in the resulting 1829 Treaty of Prairie du Chien which they forced on the Winnebago.

A meeting of townspeople on February 1, 1830, established the first fire department. At a town meeting at the county courthouse on September 7, 1835, sixty-five residents approved a motion for incorporation as a town. Eight days later, five individuals were elected as the first trustees. Incorporation was approved by the county board of trustees on October 2, and the first meeting of trustees occurred the next day. The 15th Illinois General Assembly (1836–37) codified the trustee election process. A steamboat was selected as the town seal on May 22, 1837.

A state law governing local jurisdictions resulted in the town holding its first elections for mayor and aldermen on May 24, 1841, to replace the board of trustees. Charles S. Hempstead was elected the first mayor, with 185 of the 356 votes cast. The first US census of the town was also held that year, recording 1,900 inhabitants. Hempstead would serve until 1845.

Indigenous peoples of the Americas traded galena with French traders as early as 1692. Julien Dubuque mined the ore in Iowa from 1788 until 1810. From 1807 until 1834, the United States government controlled leases, after which the lands were put up for sale. In 1839, David Dale Owen made a geologic survey of the region. The Ordovician Galena limestone contained most of the galena ore, and peak productivity occurred between 1840 and 1850. By 1845 Galena was producing nearly 27,000 tons of lead ore annually, and Jo Daviess County was producing 80 percent of the lead in the United States. In 1852, the region produced 87 percent of the American output, and 10 percent of the world's, with pollutants from Galena's industry found as far away as Lake Matoaka in Tidewater Virginia.

Once one of the most important cities in the state, Galena was a hub on the Mississippi River between St. Louis and St. Paul. Due to erosion, the Galena River is now inaccessible to steamboats. The first railroad built in Chicago, the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad, was intended to join the two cities but construction ended in 1853 at Freeport. Trackage between Freeport and Galena was completed by the Illinois Central Railroad in 1854, and later extended west to Dubuque, Sioux City, and Council Bluffs. Galena received national attention in the 1860s as the home of Ulysses S. Grant.

Decline
Following a sharp decline in the demand for lead (which had been the city's chief income source during the early 19th century), Galena's population has dropped from 14,000 in the mid-19th century, to 3,396 in the early 21st century.

Today
Galena's official flag was adopted in 1976 to symbolize mining, agriculture, steamboats, and the nine American Civil War generals who lived in the city. Until the late 1980s, Galena was a small rural farming community.

In 1990, local industries included a Kraft Foods cheese plant, Lemfco Foundry, John Westwick's foundry, and Microswitch, Inc. In the 1980s, Galena Mayor Frank Einsweiler initiated a tourist campaign. Since that time Galena's business district has emphasized its historic assets in the face of suburban development. Such long-standing businesses in the downtown area, including Stair's Grocery, Sullivan's Grocery, Clingman's Pharmacy, the oldest continuously operating pharmacy in Illinois, and Hartig Drug, closed their downtown locations. Clingman's and Hartig's relocated to the outskirts of Galena, while Stair's and Sullivan's closed their doors permanently because of competition. In late 2010, Clingman's joined the Hartig's family and moved their pharmacy to Hartig's Drugs location along Highway 20.

The Country Fair in Grant Park has been an attraction that has helped increase tourist traffic to Galena as a destination. It is a craft show that attracts thousands of visitors to the area. The once boarded-up Main Street buildings have been renovated since the late 20th century. In 2010, Galena started a campaign called Vision2020, modeled after neighbor Dubuque, Iowa's Vision 2010. A committee worked on outreach efforts with the community to form a vision of what residents wanted Galena to focus on for the next decade: five major concepts have been supported. In 2010, the 32nd annual Halloween Parade attendance was estimated at 15,000. In 2011, TripAdvisor listed Galena among its top-ten "Charming Small Towns".

Geography
Galena is located at 42.41806°N, -90.43139°W (42.418171, −90.431472) along the Galena River, which is one of many tributaries of the Mississippi River.

According to the 2010 census, Galena has a total area of 4.167 sqmi, of which 4.16 sqmi (or 99.83%) is land and 0.007 sqmi (or 0.17%) is water.

Galena is located in the Driftless Zone, an area that was not covered by glaciers during the recent ice ages. This area, which includes the far northwestern corner of Illinois, escaped glaciation, while almost the entire state was glaciated, nearly to its southern tip. Because it escaped glaciation, this area is known for its hills, valleys, bluffs and considerable exposed rock.

Horseshoe Mound is a hill located outside Galena that U.S. 20 winds around before entering Galena. The view from Horseshoe Mound is one of the most photographed spots in the city. It stands at 1063 ft above sea level.

Climate
Galena has a humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification: Dfa), with cold winters, hot summers, and four seasons. Annual precipitation is about 36 inches.

Because of the city's proximity to the Galena River, buildings have been threatened on numerous occasions by flooding. Eventually the Army Corps of Engineers built a dike to prevent city flooding. Galena's Congressman, Leo E. Allen, helped acquire funding for city floodgates which were added in 1951 to connect to the river levee system. Significant recorded floods include:
 * 1828 – In Galena's first recorded flood, the water was high enough to allow steamboats to travel on city streets.
 * 1937 – A flood inundated Main Street with up to five feet of water, causing serious damage to downtown buildings.
 * 1972 – A storm upstream caused the flood gates to be closed but the river flooded the sewage treatment plant and backed up sanitary and storm sewers. Sandbags were placed around storm manholes to keep water from flooding the downtown with three feet of water.
 * 1993 – Almost eight feet of water threatened downtown Galena, but was stopped by the city's floodgates. Late spring season rainfall led the Mississippi and Galena Rivers to their highest recorded levels.
 * 2010 – On July 22, eight inches of rainfall in one night caused the river to swell to twice its usual level. The flood gates were closed, protecting downtown, but many businesses and homes reported damages to basements and lower levels. Had the flood gates not been in place, it was estimated that six feet of water would have covered Main Street. Damages were estimated between $7–8 million. President Obama declared the county a federal disaster area on August 19.
 * 2011 – In a 12-hour period between July 27 and 28, Galena received between 10 and 15 inches of rain. The Galena River rose to more than twice its normal height and possibly its highest recorded level since the floodgates were erected. The Grant Park sign, built in the 19th century, was washed away and there were major damages to downtown businesses, the city's trail system and roads. Initial damage estimates were around $16 million.

2020 census
As of the census of 2020, the population was 3,308. The population density was 736.4 PD/sqmi. There were 2,008 housing units at an average density of 447 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 87.5% White, 0.8% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0.5% Native American, 4.4% from other races, and 6.2% from two or more races. Ethnically, the population was 10.5% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,429 people, 1,632 households, and 896 families residing in the city. The population density was 819.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,960 housing units at an average density of 470.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.6% White, 0.5% African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 3.7% from other races, and 1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 8.3% of the population.

There were 1,632 households, out of which 20.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 45.1% were non-families. 39.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.05 and the average family size was 2.71. In the city, the population was spread out, with 19.5% under the age of 19, 4.2% from 20 to 24, 26.9% from 25 to 44, 29.5% from 45 to 64, and 24.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44.7 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $45,409, and the median income for a family was $53,438. Males had a median income of $31,809 versus $30,000 for females. The per capita income for the city was $24,117. About 5.9% of families and 7.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.8% of those under age 18 and 7% of those age 65 or over.

Culture
Galena is the home to the Galena Art Center and the Galena Arts and Recreation Center. Turner Hall, a 19th-century building on Bench St., has been restored to serve as a performance venue and a popular wedding site. Galena is also home to several historic sites owned by the State of Illinois including the Old Market House, the Ulysses S Grant Home, and the E.B. Washburn Home. The Galena/Jo Daviess County Historical Society also owns a number of historical sites including the Galena and U.S. Grant Museum and the Old Blacksmith Shop. They are building a new museum building at the site of the Stillman Mansion property.

Galena hosts dozens of major events a year, including the annual Halloween Parade which draws thousands of onlookers.

Tourism
Galena is a popular tourist destination hosting well over one million visitors each year. Galena is also popular with Chicagoans, many of whom keep second homes in the area. Galena is largely popular as a result of its historic walkable urbanism, a rarity among American cities.

Cityscape
85 percent of the structures in Galena are within the Galena Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and greatly contributes to the city's popularity. The Old Market House State Historic Site, built in 1845, is a museum of local social history. Main Street was one of the first in the state to require architectural review of exterior building modifications. Zoning restrictions against wood-structure buildings contributed to the prevalence of brick buildings. All along Main Street the architectural style and historic feel create a unique atmosphere. Efforts to improve the existing infrastructure while preserving the character of this neighborhood continued in 2003 with the adoption of a comprehensive plan. The plan outlines details on burying utilities, replacing parking with bike lanes and several beautification initiatives. This historic district has garnered the attention of dozens of volunteer groups who work to beautify and increase the utility of the area. As the premier street in the second most popular tourist destination in Illinois those planning Main Street must be focused on balancing new developments along the waterway, and the transition to commercial stores with the charm provided by natural areas and long standing businesses. Trolley Cars follow parade routes north and south on Main Street and connect shopping to parks and wineries. The town is home to several wineries in the Upper Mississippi River Valley AVA. In the area, there are 450 vineyards and 100 wineries available to visit. Main Street in downtown Galena has a large number of specialty shops, restaurants, a brewery, and multiple wineries.

Galena's Saint Michael's Church was founded by the pioneer priest Father Samuel Mazzuchelli. The church is named after one of the three Archangels. Opened in 1855, the downtown DeSoto House Hotel is the oldest operating hotel in Illinois. Rooms 209 and 211 of the hotel were used as Ulysses S. Grant's campaign headquarters during his presidential campaign. Future president Abraham Lincoln gave a speech from the hotel's Main Street balcony on July 23, 1856, supporting John Fremont's bid for presidency. Two years later, on July 25, 1858, Senator Stephen Douglas spoke from the same balcony. Other famous guests include Theodore Roosevelt, Mark Twain, Susan B. Anthony, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Horace Greeley, Frances Willard, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Robert E. Lee, Chief Black Hawk, Millard Fillmore, and Zachary Taylor. General Winfield Scott Hancock stayed in Room 223 for an extended period of time. There are also several resorts and golf courses in the Galena area. In celebration of the 2018 Illinois Bicentennial, Galena Main Street was selected as one of the Illinois 200 Great Places by the American Institute of Architects Illinois component (AIA Illinois) and was recognized by USA Today Travel magazine, as one of AIA Illinois' selections for Illinois 25 Must See Places.

Education
John O. Hancock opened the first school in September 1826. The Galena Academy followed in 1832. Galena is home to Galena High School.

The nine generals
Galena was the home to nine Civil War generals. Foremost among these is Ulysses S. Grant, who first came to Galena with his wife Julia and children in 1860 to work in the family tannery and leather-good shop. A veteran of the Mexican–American War, Grant was called upon to train a regiment of volunteers raised in Galena when the Civil War broke out in 1861. Through the support of local congressman Elihu B. Washburne, Grant became Galena's first general when promoted by Abraham Lincoln on May 17, 1861. Washburne later served a brief stint as Grant's Secretary of State and then as Minister to France. Victories at Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain prompted Lincoln to promote Grant to lieutenant general on March 3, 1864, giving him command of all Union Armies.

Grant returned victorious to Galena in 1865 and the citizens gave him an Italianate two-story brick house, today recognized as the Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site. He was selected as the candidate of the Republican Party for the 1868 presidential election. Grant was elected and served two four-year terms. He did not return to Galena.

Augustus Louis Chetlain, who captained the regiment that Grant trained, was later brevetted to major general. Jeweler John E. Smith, who raised the 45th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, was also brevetted a major general. Ely S. Parker drafted the Appomattox surrender terms of the Confederacy and was the only Native American general of the Union. President Grant appointed him Commissioner of Indian Affairs in 1869. John Aaron Rawlins, who served a term as city attorney in 1857, was brevetted in 1865 and briefly served as Grant's Secretary of War. Brevetted brigadier general John C. Smith later served as Illinois Treasurer, Lieutenant Governor, and Grand Master of the state Masonic order. Gunsmith Jasper A. Maltby was promoted to brigadier general at the Siege of Vicksburg. John Duerr was brevetted in 1865, and later was a successful merchant in Monticello, Iowa. William R. Rowley was brevetted in 1865, and later became a county judge.

title: Galena, Illinois


text:
Hanover, Illinois

Hanover is a village in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, United States, along the Apple River. The town was previously named Wapello, in honor of Chief Wapello of the Meskwaki tribe. The population was 844 at the 2010 census, up from 836 in 2000.

Geography
Hanover is located at 42.25611°N, -90.28056°W (42.256058, -90.280674).

According to the 2010 census, the village has a total area of 1.05 sqmi, all land. Hanover sits in the northwest corner of Illinois, within five miles of the Mississippi River. Illinois Route 84, part of the scenic Great River Road, passes through the center of town. The Apple River, a tributary of the Mississippi, winds through and around Hanover.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 836 people, 394 households, and 230 families residing in the village. The population density was 1,411.2 /sqmi. There were 441 housing units at an average density of 744.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.01% White, 1.24% African American, 0.24% Native American, 0.12% Asian, 0.72% from other races, and 0.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 1.20% of the population.

There were 394 households, out of which 23.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.4% were married couples living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.4% were non-families. 37.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.12 and the average family size was 2.78.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 20.8% under the age of 18, 9.3% from 18 to 24, 24.2% from 25 to 44, 26% from 45 to 64, and 19.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females there were 97.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.9 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $29,236, and the median income for a family was $40,893. Males had a median income of $29,375 versus $21,442 for females. The per capita income for the village was $17,535. About 12.9% of families and 14.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.3% of those under age 18 and 13.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
River Ridge Community Unit School District 210 operates area public schools, including River Ridge High School.

Notable people

 * Carol C. Cleven, Massachusetts state representative
 * Adlai Stevenson III, former U.S. Senator, former Illinois Treasurer, former member of the Illinois House of Representatives, and former farmer in rural Hanover
 * Charles W. Woodford, Illinois Treasurer; lived in Hanover

title: Hanover, Illinois


text:
Menominee, Illinois

Menominee is a village in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, United States. The population was 248 at the 2010 census, up from 237 in 2000. The village is located on the Little Menominee River near East Dubuque and Galena.

The village derives its name from the Menominee indigenous peoples.

Geography
Menominee is located at 42.47472°N, -90.54222°W (42.474652, -90.542114).

According to the 2010 census, Menominee has a total area of 1.82 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 237 people, 78 households, and 59 families residing in the village. The population density was 123.1 PD/sqmi. There were 81 housing units at an average density of 42.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.89% White, 0.84% African American, 0.84% from other races, and 0.42% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.22% of the population.

There were 78 households, out of which 35.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.4% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.1% were non-families. 19.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.04 and the average family size was 3.53.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 33.8% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 28.3% from 25 to 44, 21.5% from 45 to 64, and 9.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.6 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $45,972, and the median income for a family was $47,500. Males had a median income of $33,036 versus $20,000 for females. The per capita income for the village was $14,518. About 6.7% of families and 18.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 30.6% of those under the age of 18 and 3.8% of those 65 or over.

title: Menominee, Illinois