Alton, River city in Madison County, Illinois, United States
Alton is a town along the Mississippi in Madison County, Illinois. The streets run parallel to the riverbank, while several public green spaces offer walking paths and sports facilities.
The settlement began in the 1830s when a Massachusetts businessman purchased land and laid out the first streets. Before the Civil War, this spot became an important stopping point for people escaping toward freedom.
The name comes from Alton in Hampshire, the birthplace of the founder's father. Victorian homes along the riverfront still show the architectural choices that shaped the town's appearance during its early growth.
The fire department operates from several stations and provides protection across the area. Parks and recreational facilities are spread throughout town and can be reached without special preparation.
Robert Wadlow grew up here and reached a height of 8 feet 11 inches (272 cm), making him the tallest person in documented medical history. A life-size bronze statue stands downtown to remember him.
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