HANCOCK COUNTY
Population: 19,104 (2020 Census)
Key Cities & Population:
- Hamilton (2,951): Situated along the Mississippi River, Hamilton is directly across from Keokuk, Iowa. It was founded by Artois Hamilton and remains a vibrant town with strong historical ties.
- Carthage (2,605): Known for the 1844 murder of Mormon founder Joseph Smith at the Carthage Jail, Carthage is steeped in history. It also holds the distinction of having the only original jails still standing in Illinois. Abraham Lincoln delivered a campaign speech here in 1858 and defended a man in a famous trial.
- Warsaw (1,607): A key trading post during the early 19th century, Warsaw was a center of resistance during the Mormon-Illinois War. It’s the birthplace of John Hay, who served as Abraham Lincoln’s private secretary.
- Nauvoo (1,149): Once a thriving town with a population of 12,000 in the 1840s, Nauvoo was the center of the Mormon movement. Today, it attracts tourists who visit the historical buildings maintained by the LDS Church.
- La Harpe (1,235): Founded by French explorer Bernard de La Harpe, La Harpe was established in the 18th century, and its name honors the explorer’s journey.
Key Landmarks & Historical Figures:
- Carthage Jail: The site where Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church, was killed. This is one of Hancock County’s most historically significant landmarks.
- Nauvoo Historic District: Home to preserved buildings from the Mormon era, including the Nauvoo Temple. It also hosts a collection of historic homes and buildings from other 19th-century settlers.
- The Warsaw Brewery: Originally established in 1861, this brewery was once a major local business and reopened in 2006 as a bar and restaurant after renovations.
- John Hay’s Home: Located in Warsaw, this home was once the residence of John Hay, a key figure in U.S. history who served as Secretary of State under Presidents William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt.
Fun Facts:
- Hancock County is named after John Hancock, the signer of the Declaration of Independence, reflecting its deep ties to early American history.
- Nauvoo was one of the largest cities in Illinois during the 1840s, second only to Chicago. The city’s name, which is Hebrew for “beautiful upon the mountains,” was chosen by Joseph Smith in 1840.
- Warsaw is home to a brewery that operated for over a century and then reopened after a period of dormancy, showcasing the area’s resilience and connection to its heritage.
The Forgottonia Project 