National Register Listings in Carroll County, Illinois
About Carroll County
Carroll County Timeline
Carroll County, Illinois, located in the northwestern part of the state, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was officially established in 1839 and named after Charles Carroll, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sac and Fox tribes.
The first European settlers arrived in the early 1830s, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming. The county quickly grew in population, and by the 1850s, it had become a prosperous agricultural community. Farming, particularly the production of corn and wheat, played a significant role in the county's economy during this time.
Carroll County also played a role in the development of the railroad in the region. In the late 1850s, the Illinois Central Railroad constructed lines through the county, connecting it to larger cities and facilitating transportation of goods and people. This led to further population growth and economic development.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Carroll County faced challenges such as economic downturns and the effects of the Great Depression. However, the community persevered and diversified its economy, incorporating manufacturing and services sectors. Today, Carroll County maintains its agricultural heritage alongside a growing tourism industry, with attractions including outdoor recreational activities and historic sites that showcase its rich history.
The first European settlers arrived in the early 1830s, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming. The county quickly grew in population, and by the 1850s, it had become a prosperous agricultural community. Farming, particularly the production of corn and wheat, played a significant role in the county's economy during this time.
Carroll County also played a role in the development of the railroad in the region. In the late 1850s, the Illinois Central Railroad constructed lines through the county, connecting it to larger cities and facilitating transportation of goods and people. This led to further population growth and economic development.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Carroll County faced challenges such as economic downturns and the effects of the Great Depression. However, the community persevered and diversified its economy, incorporating manufacturing and services sectors. Today, Carroll County maintains its agricultural heritage alongside a growing tourism industry, with attractions including outdoor recreational activities and historic sites that showcase its rich history.
Carroll County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Carroll County, Illinois.
- 1832: Carroll County established by Illinois Legislature
- 1838: First courthouse built in Carroll County
- 1841: Population reaches 1,000
- 1854: Completion of Illinois Central Railroad through Carroll County
- 1861: Carroll County sends troops to fight in the American Civil War
- 1871: Great Chicago Fire affects Carroll County, many residents provide aid
- 1893: Carroll County Fair established
- 1928: Galena-Charles Mound Road becomes the first paved highway in Carroll County
- 1957: Historic Savanna Army Depot opens, becoming one of the largest employers in the area
- 1976: Carroll County celebrates its sesquicentennial
- 1996: Historic Savanna Army Depot closes