History of the Small Towns

Welcome to Carroll County, IL, a region rich in history and brimming with charm. Carroll County is home to seven unique towns, each with its own story to tell. Join us as we explore the historic landmarks and fascinating pasts of Mount Carroll, Savanna, Lanark, Milledgeville, Chadwick, Thomson, and Shannon.

A Glimpse into Carroll County's Past

Carroll County was established in 1839, named after Charles Carroll of Carrollton, the last surviving signer of the Declaration of Independence. This area quickly became a hub for pioneers and settlers drawn by its fertile lands and strategic location along the Mississippi River. The county's history is marked by its agricultural roots, educational institutions, and transportation developments, all of which have contributed to the rich tapestry of communities found here today.

Mount Carroll: A Legacy of Learning

Mount Carroll, founded in 1841, is renowned for its educational heritage. The town was home to Shimer College, originally established as the Mount Carroll Seminary. Must-Visit Historical Sites:

• Shimer Square: Drive around the Shimer College and admire the architectural beauty.
• Mount Carroll Historic District: Stroll through brick streets lined with 19th-century buildings that tell the story of this educational hub.

Savanna: Gateway to the River

Savanna's history is intertwined with its strategic location along the Mississippi River and its significance as a transportation hub. Must-Visit Historical Sites:

• Mississippi Palisades State Park: Discover breathtaking natural landscapes and delve into the park's Native American history.
• The Dale Gardner Veterans Memorial Bridge: Explore around and over the bridge that connects Illinois and Iowa, offering stunning views of the river.

Lanark: A Testament to Agriculture

Founded in 1861, Lanark is a testament to the agricultural roots of Carroll County. Must-Visit Historical Sites:

• Lanark Historic District: Explore the buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries that define this quaint town.
• Historic Churches and Schools: Learn about the town's community development through its preserved historic structures.

Milledgeville: Echoes of the Past

Established in 1834, Milledgeville offers a glimpse into the agricultural history of Carroll County. Must-Visit Historical Sites:

• Old Milledgeville School: Visit this historic building to understand the town's educational past.
• Historic Homes: Walk through the town and admire the preserved homes that reflect Milledgeville's heritage.

Chadwick: Small Town, Big History

Chadwick, founded in the late 1800s, is a small town with a rich sense of community. Must-Visit Historical Sites:

• Chadwick Historic District: Discover the buildings that narrate the town's growth and development.

Thomson: The Melon Capital

Thomson's history is rooted in its agricultural prowess, particularly in melon farming. Must-Visit Historical Sites:

• The Railcar Museum: Visit the train car museum loaded with Thomson's Rich History.
• Historic Downtown and river views: Experience the town's agricultural heritage firsthand.

Shannon: A Farming Heritage

Founded in 1860, Shannon's history is deeply connected to agriculture. Must-Visit Historical Sites:

• Historic Churches and Homes: Wander through the town to see buildings that tell the story of Shannon's development.
• Shannon Historic District: Admire the late 19th-century architecture and get a sense of the town's past.

Carroll County, IL, is a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored. From the educational legacy of Mount Carroll to the agricultural roots of Shannon, each town offers a unique glimpse into the past. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and historic charm of Carroll County.