Whiteside County

Whiteside County is an administrative county in northwestern Illinois bordered by the Mississippi River on its western edge. The landscape includes farmland, small towns, and waterways that shape the region's geography.

The county was established in 1836 from parts of Jo Daviess and Henry counties. It was named after General Samuel Whiteside, a military officer from the War of 1812 era.

Morrison, the county seat, maintains multiple historical societies and museums that document the development of this Illinois region through preserved artifacts and records.

Visitors can explore towns and sites spread across the county by car, with Morrison and Tampico as main points of interest. Accommodations and dining options are found mainly in larger towns, while rural areas offer quieter exploring experiences.

The village of Tampico is the birthplace of Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States. This local connection draws visitors interested in presidential history to this small corner of Illinois.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1836

Capital city: Morrison

Shares border with: Carroll County, Ogle County, Lee County, Bureau County, Henry County, Rock Island County, Clinton County

Website: https://whitesidecountyil.gov

GPS coordinates: 41.75000,-89.91000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:08