Mason County, Illinois
Mason County sits along the Illinois River in the middle of the state. The soil here is different from the rich black dirt found across much of Illinois. It’s sandy country, with several protected natural areas.
Havana is the biggest town and serves as the county seat, although the population has been declining. The county’s claim to fame? Melons. Sweet, juicy cantaloupes and watermelons thrive in the sandy soil.
Visitors often come here for hunting and fishing. The Sanganois State Fish and Wildlife Area is a wetland paradise. There isn’t much hustle and bustle, and people around here prefer it that way.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Mason County |
| County Seat | Havana |
| Etymology | Named after Mason County, Kentucky and George Mason |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Havana, Mason City, Manito, and several unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 136, Illinois Route 10, Illinois Route 97 |
| FIPS Code | 17-125 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 571 square miles (land: 565 sq mi, water: 6 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Fulton County (Northwest), Tazewell County (Northeast), Logan County (Southeast), Menard County (South), Cass County (Southwest), Schuyler County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Population | Approximately 13,000 |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 40.0000° N, 89.7500° W |
| Major Landmarks | The Illinois River, the historic town of Havana, and the Mason County Courthouse |
