Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is a city in Jefferson County, Illinois, located at the intersection of Interstate 57 and Interstate 64. It functions as a key transportation junction connecting southern Illinois to major metropolitan areas and serves numerous travelers passing through the region.

Founded in 1817 by Zadok Casey, the city took its name from George Washington's Virginia estate. The coal mining era brought significant development that shaped the local economy for decades to come.

The Cedarhurst Center for the Arts displays sculptures outdoors and hosts regular exhibitions of contemporary work. Visitors can experience the local art scene firsthand and encounter creative expressions in gallery spaces.

Mount Vernon Airport provides facilities for private and charter flights, making air travel accessible for visitors. The city also houses multiple distribution centers and manufacturing operations that support its role as a regional hub.

A devastating tornado in 1888 prompted one of the earliest disaster relief efforts by the American Red Cross. Clara Barton personally coordinated the response, marking a turning point in how organized humanitarian aid was delivered.