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History of all 16 Counties: #9 Knox County

KNOX COUNTY

Map of Illinois highlighting Knox County

Population: 50,710 (2020 Census)
Knox County, established in 1825, is named after Henry Knox, the first U.S. Secretary of War. The county is rich in history and culture with several historic sites, notable figures, and scenic attractions.

Key Cities and Villages

Galesburg (Population: 30,460)

  • Historical Significance: Founded by George Washington Gale, Galesburg is known for its abolitionist roots, hosting the first anti-slavery society in Illinois (1837). It’s home to Knox College, where the fifth Lincoln-Douglas debate took place in 1858.
  • Landmarks:
    • Old Main at Knox College: A National Historic Landmark.
    • Carl Sandburg Birthplace: Honors the Pulitzer-winning poet and author.
    • Underground Railroad Museum and Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum at Alumni Hall.
  • Famous Residents:
    • Carl Sandburg, poet and author.
    • Jim Sundberg, MLB All-Star catcher.
    • George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., inventor of the Ferris Wheel.
    • Ronald Reagan (youth residence).
  • Fun Fact: The Marx Brothers reportedly received their famous nicknames at a Galesburg theater in 1914.
  • Economic Contributions: Historically tied to the railroad industry; BNSF Railway is a major employer.

Abingdon (Population: 3,206)

  • Noteworthy Contributions:
    • Birthplace of the spring-loaded mousetrap, patented by William Hooker.
    • Home to two Medal of Honor recipients: Robert Hugo Dunlap (Iwo Jima) and James Stockdale (Vietnam War).
  • Cultural Connection: James Stockdale’s life inspired the NBC movie Love and War.

Knoxville (Population: 2,745)

  • Historical Significance: Originally named Henderson and the oldest town in the county.
  • Famous Figures:
    • Justina Ford: First licensed African American female doctor in Denver, CO.
    • Charles Rudolph Walgreens: Founder of Walgreens.
    • Matt Wilson: Acclaimed jazz drummer.

Wataga (Population: 793)

  • Small-town charm and a proud agricultural community.

Victoria, Rio, Altona, and Other Villages
These towns contribute to the rural character of Knox County, with their unique histories and ties to regional school districts like ROWVA and Mid-County.

Landmarks and Attractions

  • Spoon River Scenic Drive: Knox County Drive is a highlight, featuring local crafts, food, and history during the autumn.
  • Knox County Courthouse (Knoxville): A historic building with striking architecture.
  • Maquon (Potawatomi Village Site): A glimpse into the area’s Indigenous history.

Notable Figures

  • Mary Ann Bickerdyke: A Civil War nurse who established over 300 field hospitals.
  • Ernest de Koven Leffingwell: Arctic explorer and pioneer in geographic surveys.
  • James Knox Taylor: Architect of the U.S. Treasury building (1897-1912).

Resources to Learn More

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