Stephenson County

Stephenson County is an administrative division in northwestern Illinois that encompasses rolling terrain, river valleys, and extensive agricultural land. The county is governed from its seat in Freeport, which houses the main governmental offices and public facilities.

The area was established in 1837 and carved from portions of Jo Daviess and Winnebago counties. It takes its name from Colonel Benjamin Stephenson, an early Illinois representative who played a role in the region's formation.

Multiple schools, including Freeport High School and Lena-Winslow High School, provide education to students throughout the county's different communities.

Visitors should know that Freeport serves as the administrative hub where most public services are located and from which the county's various communities are accessible. The rural character means distances between towns can be considerable.

Kellogg's Grove, a preserved historical site within the county, marks territorial conflicts from the early settlement period. This location holds stories of the contentious beginnings of regional settlement.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1837

Capital city: Freeport

Shares border with: Green County, Lafayette County, Carroll County, Jo Daviess County, Ogle County, Winnebago County

Website: http://co.stephenson.il.us

GPS coordinates: 42.35000,-89.67000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:21