Honoring the rich history of rural western Illinois, and examining the problems we currently face
MORGAN COUNTY Population: 32,140 (2023 estimate) Morgan County's population has seen a decline in recent years, with a 12.28% decrease since 2000. Key Facts Named For: Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan. Historical Importance: Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas frequently practiced law here. Education Legacy: Home to Illinois College (founded 1829) and the now-closed MacMurray College, …
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MERCER COUNTY POPULATION: 15,699 (2023 estimate) Mercer County has experienced a slight decline in population over the past decades, reflecting broader trends in rural Illinois counties. Key Cities and Villages Aledo (Population: 3,618) County Seat: Known as the hub of Mercer County, Aledo flourished with the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s. Cultural Significance: …
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A recent podcast on NPR Ted Radio Hour asked the question ¨What are the 5 biggest problems in the world?¨ (you can listen to the podcast here or search ¨Ted Radio Hour¨ on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts). Let's take a closer look and then ask the question ¨What are the 5 biggest problems …
The following is a portion of the transcript from our interview with Tim Kasser about value pollution. On this edition we return to our conversation with Dr. Tim Kasser, a psychology professor at Knox College who is no stranger to rural living. We were extremely fortunate to speak with Dr. Kasser, he is the well-known …
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McDONOUGH COUNTY Overview McDonough County, located in Western Illinois, is rich in history, culture, and community landmarks. With a current population of approximately 29,682 (as of the 2020 Census), the county boasts a unique heritage rooted in its connections to the War of 1812 and a tradition of community pride. McDonough County is a perfect …
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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 …
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HENDERSON COUNTY Population: 7,331 (2020 Census) History & Culture Henderson County, established in 1841, was named after Richard Henderson, founder of the Transylvania Company, a land acquisition firm instrumental in the early settlement of Kentucky and the Ohio Valley. The county’s location along the Mississippi River has shaped its economy and culture, making it a …
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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, …
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GREENE COUNTY Population Approximately 11,850 (2020 Census) Interesting Facts Named after Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene. Home to the Koster Site, a prehistoric archaeological site considered one of the oldest and most significant cemetery sites in North America. It is a key discovery for the Center for American Archaeology. Hosts landmarks like the Virginia Tillery …
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FULTON COUNTY Population: 34,844 (2020 Census, named for Robert Fulton, inventor of the steamboat). County Seat: Lewistown Key Cities and Towns Canton (Population: 15,703) History & Industry: Founded in 1825, Canton thrived as a factory town due to railroads, coal, and proximity to the Illinois River. Once a major cigar producer and home to P&O …
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The Forgottonia Project 