Monmouth Courthouse Commercial Historic District
Roughly bounded by Archer, Ave., First St., Second Ave. and A St., Monmouth, IL Local significance of the district: Architecture; Commerce; Politics/government
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The Chicago River was once so polluted that it caught on fire several times in the mid-20th century. The river was so polluted with chemicals and sewage that it was almost devoid of life. Today, the river has been cleaned up and is a popular spot for recreational activities like kayaking and boat tours.
About Warren County
Warren County Timeline
Warren County, located in Western Illinois, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The county was officially established in 1825 and was named after General Joseph Warren, a hero of the American Revolution. Initially inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Sauk and Fox, European settlement began in the early 19th century, as pioneers ventured westward in search of fertile land.
The county's early history is closely tied to the construction of the Illinois-Michigan Canal in the 1830s, which connected the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River, passing through the southeastern part of Warren County. The canal greatly influenced the development of the area, as it facilitated trade and transportation, leading to the growth of towns and villages along its route. However, by the late 1800s, the canal had lost its significance due to the rise of railroads.
During the mid-19th century, Warren County witnessed the rise of agricultural industries, particularly farming and livestock raising. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the cultivation of corn and wheat, while livestock farming thrived due to the abundance of grazing land. As a result, small farming communities flourished, and agriculture became a central part of the county's economy.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Warren County experienced periods of economic growth and industrial development. Coal mining became a significant industry, and the county's rich coal deposits attracted miners from nearby states. At the same time, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century further stimulated economic growth, with oil wells dotting the landscape and providing employment opportunities for locals.
Today, Warren County maintains its agricultural heritage while also diversifying its economy with industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. With its charming small towns, beautiful countryside, and historical sites, Warren County is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its residents throughout its rich history.
The county's early history is closely tied to the construction of the Illinois-Michigan Canal in the 1830s, which connected the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River, passing through the southeastern part of Warren County. The canal greatly influenced the development of the area, as it facilitated trade and transportation, leading to the growth of towns and villages along its route. However, by the late 1800s, the canal had lost its significance due to the rise of railroads.
During the mid-19th century, Warren County witnessed the rise of agricultural industries, particularly farming and livestock raising. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the cultivation of corn and wheat, while livestock farming thrived due to the abundance of grazing land. As a result, small farming communities flourished, and agriculture became a central part of the county's economy.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Warren County experienced periods of economic growth and industrial development. Coal mining became a significant industry, and the county's rich coal deposits attracted miners from nearby states. At the same time, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century further stimulated economic growth, with oil wells dotting the landscape and providing employment opportunities for locals.
Today, Warren County maintains its agricultural heritage while also diversifying its economy with industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. With its charming small towns, beautiful countryside, and historical sites, Warren County is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its residents throughout its rich history.
Warren County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Warren County, Illinois.
- 1825 - Warren County organized, named after Dr. Joseph Warren
- 1830 - First permanent settlement established in Monmouth
- 1834 - County seat established in Monmouth
- 1836 - First newspaper, The Monmouth Atlas, started publication
- 1840 - Population of Warren County reaches 4,228
- 1857 - The Monmouth College founded
- 1861-1865 - Warren County residents serve in the Civil War
- 1879 - The first rail line, Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, reaches Monmouth
- 1893 - First electric streetcar line established in Monmouth
- 1908 - Warren County Courthouse built in Monmouth
- 1934-1937 - Construction of the Monmouth Municipal Airport
- 1947 - The Bishop Hill State Historic Site established in southern Warren County
- 1963 - Warren County Historical Society founded
- 1996 - The Warren County Public Library expanded