Hamilton County

Hamilton County is an administrative division in southern Illinois with McLeansboro serving as its county seat. Major routes including Illinois Routes 14, 142, and 242 connect the communities throughout the area.

The county was established in 1821 from White County and named after Alexander Hamilton, the nation's first Secretary of the Treasury. Its creation reflected the early westward expansion of American settlement.

Religious buildings like the First Baptist Church and Saint Clements Roman Catholic Church reflect the faith communities that shape daily life in the region. These structures show how deeply rooted spiritual traditions are in local society.

The county offers recreational facilities such as the Hamilton County Fair Grounds and Hamilton County State Conservation Area for outdoor activities. Visitors should know that rural areas have greater distances between towns and services may be spread out.

A major tornado swept through multiple townships in March 1925 with significant impact on the local population. This event remains an important part of the region's historical memory.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1821

Capital city: McLeansboro

Shares border with: Wayne County, Saline County, Franklin County, Jefferson County, White County, Gallatin County

Website: https://hamiltoncountyillinois.com

GPS coordinates: 38.08000,-88.54000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:45