SCOTT COUNTY
Population: 4,989 (2023 estimate)
Scott County, one of Illinois’ smallest counties by population. Like other small communities, it has experienced population decline, with a decrease of approximately 14% since 2000. Despite these challenges, Scott County holds a rich history and a close-knit community that proudly celebrates its rural heritage.
Key Facts
- Named For: Scott County is named after Scott County, Kentucky, which honored Revolutionary War hero General Charles Scott.
- Historical Importance: Early settlers arrived in the 1820s, and the county formally split from Morgan County in 1839. Scott County became known for its agricultural strength and its role in shaping the early development of west-central Illinois.
Major Communities
- Winchester (Population: ~1,500)
- The county seat and cultural hub of Scott County.
- Known for its historic courthouse, built in 1885, which remains an iconic landmark.
- Hosts the annual Winchester Burgoo Festival, a long-standing community event celebrating local culture and food.
- Bluffs (Population: ~600)
- A picturesque town named for its location near the Illinois River bluffs.
- Offers access to nature trails and scenic views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Manchester (Population: ~300)
- A small community with deep agricultural roots.
- Home to traditional churches and community gatherings.
- Alsey (Population: ~200)
- Exeter (Population: ~75)
- Exeter was given the name of the origin of its founders, Exeter, New Hampshire.
- The Potawatomi Trail of Death passed through here in 1838.
Key Landmarks and Attractions
- Winchester Courthouse
- Built in 1885, this historical structure is a centerpiece of Scott County’s heritage.
- Continues to serve as a site for civic and cultural events.
- Scott County Fairgrounds
- Host to the annual Scott County Fair, featuring agricultural exhibits, 4-H competitions, and traditional fair events that bring the community together.
Notable Events
- Winchester Burgoo Festival
- A signature event in Scott County, this fall festival celebrates a pioneer dish known as “burgoo,” a hearty stew cooked over an open flame.
- Brings visitors from across Illinois to enjoy food, music, and small-town charm.
Important Figures
- Richard Yates Sr. and Richard Yates Jr.
- Both father and son, former Illinois governors, lived nearby and had a strong influence on the region.
- Their contributions to Illinois politics helped shape the development of west-central Illinois, including Scott County.
- Greene Vardiman Black:
- The father of modern dentistry was born near Winchester. His descendants practiced medicine there through the 1960s.
- Stephen Douglas:
- Moved to Winchester when he was 20 years old in 1833 to teach school.
- He had forty students who paid him $3 each per quarter.
- Douglas taught himself the law after school and soon left Winchester to work as a lawyer.
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