Brown County, Illinois

Brown County is tucked away in west-central Illinois, with Mount Sterling serving as the county seat. The area is small and peaceful, featuring rolling hills and wooded areas that break up the surrounding farmland.

The Illinois River and La Moine River help define the county’s eastern border, while hunting remains a popular outdoor activity, especially for deer and turkey. Local farmers commonly grow corn, soybeans, and wheat, while many also raise cattle across the rural countryside.

Although Brown County’s population has declined over the years, local residents continue to take pride in their close-knit community. Nightlife is limited, with only a few local bars, but Siloam Springs State Park provides a peaceful setting for fishing and camping.

CategoryDetails
County NameBrown County
County SeatMount Sterling
EtymologyNamed after Jacob Brown, War of 1812 army officer
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesMount Sterling, Ripley, Mound Station, Versailles, and various other unincorporated communities.
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Highway 24, Illinois Route 99, Illinois Route 107
FIPS Code17-009
Total Area (Land and Water)307 square miles (land: 306 sq mi, water: 1 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Schuyler County (North), Cass County (East), Morgan County (Southeast), Pike County (South), Adams County (West)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CT)
StateIllinois
Coordinates39.9780° N, 90.7479° W
Major LandmarksSiloam Springs State Park, Mount Sterling Historic District
PopulationApproximately 6,300
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