9 Oldest Founded Small Towns to Visit in Illinois
As the 21st state to join the Union in 1818, Illinois has accumulated a colorful history through the years, which shows prominently in its array of historic small towns. Tracing back to the early settlement era, various frontier villages established trading posts and communities that still thrive today. Exploring some of Illinois' oldest-founded towns offers a tangible glimpse into the pioneering spirit that cultivated this Midwestern state.
From the banks of the Mississippi River tracing northward lies a treasure trail of destinations preserving their 19th-century roots. The following towns to visit in Illinois invite visitors to step back to eras gone by amid quaint main streets and tales from the past still woven into the fabric of these communities.
Alton
One of Alton's claims to fame is the birthplace of the world's tallest man ever to live, Robert Wadlow. However, there is more to this charming Mississippi River community, which traces the town’s beginnings to 1818. Alton houses a lovely mix of historical sites and monuments as evidence of its long-tenured heritage, including the National Great Rivers Museum. This quaint facility focuses on the role of the Mississippi River through history and how it transformed the lives of the communities around it. McPike Mansion is among Alton's most famous landmarks, dating back to 1869. Touting its rustic interior transports guests to the Victorian era, and rumors of hauntings add to the thrill of walking down its erie hallways.
Besides history, visitors can explore the town's art scene at the Jacoby Arts Center, where local artists display different art forms. When exhausted from wandering the streets of downtown Alton, Rock Springs Park provides a nice spot to relax and catch your breath.
Edwardsville
Edwardsville was named after Ninian Edwards, the governor of Illinois between 1826 and 1830. The town was first settled in the early 1800s, and the town’s rich history seamlessly complements a bustling arts community. Tourists can delve into Edwardsville's past by visiting Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House. Constructed in 1820, it impresses with a federal-style facade inviting guests for guided tours of local history. Edwardsville Children's Museum is a must-visit if you travel with kids. The quaint facility houses interactive exhibits that encourage fun learning for kids of all ages.
For the artistically inclined, stopping by Wildey Theater lets you catch riveting stage performances by local artists in a restored 1900s opera house. Meanwhile, nature lovers will feel at home exploring the serene and lush environment of the Gardens at SIUE.
Carmi
Founded in 1816, this adorable community along the Little Wabash River promises history enthusiasts an eye-opening experience. Carmi's captivating past is well-preserved at the White County Historical Society, where guests can visit to browse numerous archives and artifacts highlighting the region's history and culture. Several historic sites offer an authentic glimpse into Carmi's bygone eras, highlighted by the Webb-Hay House. With a legacy dating back to 1876, this historic home was transformed into a bed and breakfast but retains its rustic charm.
Beyond the town’s history, Carmi welcomes guests to enjoy quality time in the great outdoors at Carmi Country Club. This lovely golf course accommodates players of all skill levels, with a quiet, lush atmosphere, ideal for laid-back tee time.
Shawneetown
Shawneetown houses several Native American burial mounds of the Shawnee Indian village, which occupied the territory before the establishment of United States settlements. The town was founded in 1810, evolving into a thriving finance and trade hub for settlers relocating from the East. Today, you can get a feel for its rich history at the Shawneetown Bank State Historic Site. This iconic Greek Revival building is among Illinois's oldest structures, with its construction starting in 1839.
The town compliments its rich history with beautiful outdoor scenery. It is surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, which invites outdoor enthusiasts for remarkable adventures. The vast wilderness is perfect for hiking, camping, and nature exploration.
Barrington
This northwest Chicago suburb, less than an hour from Naperville, was once home to the Potawatomi tribe. Today, the new and the old interact in Barrington, providing a mix of fun experiences for its visitors. Barrington's Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts a cluster of age-old structures with Victorian, Folk, and early American architectural styles. The historic Catlow Theater along Main Street has captivated audiences since 1927 and continues to do so by screening contemporary and classic movies. Barrington offers a taste of the new with exciting shopping and dining opportunities at the Ice House Mall & Village Shop.
Outdoors, Baker's Lake Nature Preserve's quiet atmosphere invites lazy strolls and easygoing birdwatching sessions for nature lovers. Straddling over 300 acres, this wildlife sanctuary hosts several bird species, including herons.
Cairo
Situated on the southern corner of the state, Cairo hosts an interesting community with a rich railroad heritage. Strolling the Cairo Historic Park District is a surreal journey into the past, exposing you to a mix of rustic buildings and historic homes. Notable sites to check out include Magnolia Manor. This beautiful mansion was built in 1869 and features period furnishings depicting Victorian-era Cairo. Cairo's civil heritage comes alive at Fort Defiance State Park, where visitors uncover curious war history in a beautiful natural space with pleasant walking trails.
Outdoor lovers must head to the Mississippi-Ohio River Confluence for breathtaking views of the two waterways. Climbing the Cairo I-57 Bridge places them at the perfect position to take in the panoramic river vistas.
Carthage
Carthage is historically remembered as the site where an irate mob murdered the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother. Tourists can visit the actual location at the Carthage Jail, which preserves the memories of the brothers and showcases local history through archives, artifacts, and a short movie. The Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum further provides interesting insights into Carthage's colorful history. This fascinating museum houses many exhibits, including Civil War and Native American artifacts.
However, the Hancock County Historical Society is an excellent stop for a broader view of regional history. Beyond the history, Carthage has a relaxed rural atmosphere, best embodied by the Carthage Park District. After uncovering enough of the town's past, this is the ideal spot to chill out and revel in a serene atmosphere.
Galesburg
Galesburg's storied beginnings date back to 1837. This town was home to anti-slavery societies and an important hub in the Underground Railroad. Visitors to this charming community can tour various sites to explore its heritage, including the Galesburg Railroad Museum. The facility exhibits various railway-related artifacts chronicling the role of the railway in Galesburg's development. Several antique stores, including the Galesburg Antiques Mall, invite souvenir enthusiasts to hunt for primitive items to add to their collections.
Those visiting with kids will have an excellent time at the Discovery Depot Children's Museum, home to interactive exhibits and fun hands-on activities. Finally, experience the beauty of local arts by touring the quaint Galesburg Community Arts Center, which stages visual art exhibitions and live performances.
Nauvoo
If you enjoy immersive historical experiences, Nauvoo is among the best towns to visit in Illinois. Known for its deep Mormon Church heritage, this town was founded in 1839 as the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Nauvoo hosts one of the best historic districts in the region, housing a treasure trove of landmarks and sites. The Nauvoo Illinois Temple rises above the town's skyline, impressing newcomers with beautiful old-world architectural styles. Among the numerous sites to check out is the Joseph Smith Historic Site, which preserves the home of the church's founder.
Meanwhile, the Heber and Vilate Kimball Home offers a peek into civilian life during Nauvoo's formative years. The modest abode exhibits an impressive collection of furnishings and artifacts from the Victorian era.
The Takeaway
Traveling the heritage highways to Illinois' earliest established small towns presents a unique peek into the state's formative origins and culture. Each destination offers its own slice of living history preserved along charming streets and within local museums. Immersing in the small-town ambiance and stories of residents helps bring to life the pioneering spirit that built the foundation for the Prairie State. Any of the above small towns to visit in Illinois promises a remarkable trip into the past worth experiencing.
