McDonough County

McDonough County is an administrative county in west-central Illinois covering rolling hills and farmland. Macomb serves as the main population center and administrative hub where most county services are located.

The county was founded in 1826 and named after Commodore Thomas McDonough, a naval officer from the early 1800s. Its creation reflected the westward expansion of Illinois during that period.

Western Illinois University in Macomb shapes daily life here through its student community and academic events. The campus brings educational activities and cultural programs that residents and visitors can experience throughout the year.

The courthouse in Macomb is the main location for administrative services and accessing public records. Services are available during regular business hours on weekdays throughout the year.

This region belongs to an area once called Forgottonia due to its distance from major urban centers. The name reflects historical challenges the area faced in attracting infrastructure investment and economic growth.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1826

Capital city: Macomb

Shares border with: Henderson County, Warren County, Fulton County, Schuyler County, Hancock County

Website: http://outfitters.com/illinois/mcdonough

GPS coordinates: 40.46000,-90.68000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:40