Jacksonville, Illinois
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| Jacksonville, Illinois | |
|---|---|
| Name | Jacksonville |
| Settlement type | City |
| Nickname | The Athens of the West |
| Pushpin label | Jacksonville |
| Coordinates | 39, 44, 27, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Illinois |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Morgan County |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | 1825 |
| Government type | Mayor–Council |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Andy Ezard |
| Area total sq mi | 10.40 |
| Area land sq mi | 10.30 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.10 |
| Elevation ft | 623 |
| Population total | 18901 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density sq mi | auto |
| Timezone | CST |
| Utc offset | -6 |
| Timezone DST | CDT |
| Utc offset DST | -5 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 62650 |
| Area code | 217 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 17-38115 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 2395420 |
| Website | www.jacksonvilleil.gov |
Jacksonville, Illinois. Located in Morgan County, it is a historic city known for its early commitment to education and social reform, earning the nickname "The Athens of the West." Founded in 1825, it became a significant center for Illinois College, several state institutions, and the abolitionist movement. The city serves as a commercial and cultural hub for the surrounding agricultural region in west-central Illinois.
History
The city was founded in 1825 by a group of settlers from New Salem and was named for President Andrew Jackson. Its early growth was propelled by its selection as the county seat for Morgan County and its strategic location. A pivotal moment came in 1829 with the founding of Illinois College by Yale University graduates, known as the "Yale Band," making it the first college in Illinois to grant a degree. This established a legacy of learning and attracted other institutions, including the Illinois School for the Deaf (founded 1839) and the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired (1847). The city was a known hotbed of abolitionist activity; its residents were active in the Underground Railroad and it was home to prominent figures like Jonathan Baldwin Turner, an advocate for land-grant colleges. During the Civil War, the Camp Butler military training camp and prisoner-of-war camp was established nearby.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 10.40 square miles, predominantly land. It is situated in the Till Plains region of central Illinois, characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain. The city lies approximately 35 miles west of Springfield, the state capital, and 90 miles north of St. Louis. Major nearby waterways include Lake Jacksonville and the Illinois River, which flows a few miles to the east. The city's street layout is based on a grid pattern, with the central public square anchored by the Morgan County Courthouse.
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population was 18,901. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with significant representations of African American, Hispanic, and Asian residents. The presence of Illinois College, the Illinois School for the Deaf, and the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired contributes to a unique and diverse demographic profile. The median age is slightly higher than the national average, reflecting the city's stable population and role as a regional center for services and healthcare.
Economy
The economy has historically been anchored by education, healthcare, and light manufacturing. Major employers include Illinois College, Passavant Area Hospital, and several state-operated facilities like the Jacksonville Correctional Center and the Illinois School for the Deaf. Manufacturing firms such as A. O. Smith and Aries Manufacturing have significant operations. The city also serves as a retail and service center for the surrounding agricultural area, with a downtown district featuring many locally-owned businesses. The Jacksonville Regional Airport supports general aviation and local industry.
Education
The city is renowned as an educational center. Illinois College, a private liberal arts college, remains a cornerstone institution. The Jacksonville School District 117 operates public primary and secondary schools, including Jacksonville High School. The state-supported Illinois School for the Deaf and Illinois School for the Visually Impaired provide specialized education and are notable landmarks. Other post-secondary options include Lincoln Land Community College, which maintains a satellite campus.
Culture and recreation
Cultural life is deeply influenced by its academic institutions. The MacMurray College campus, though now closed, contributes to the architectural landscape. The city hosts the annual Symphony of Fire fireworks display and the Jacksonville Art Association's gallery. Recreational facilities include the Community Park, the Lake Jacksonville reservoir for boating and fishing, and the Illinois College athletic facilities. Historic sites such as the David Strawn Art Gallery and the Governor Duncan Mansion reflect its 19th-century heritage. The city is also known for its well-preserved downtown square and numerous properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Category:Cities in Illinois Category:County seats in Illinois Category:Morgan County, Illinois