McDonough County, Illinois
McDonough County is tucked away in western Illinois, about halfway between the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Macomb, the county seat, is home to Western Illinois University. There’s also some serious history here, with Abraham Lincoln giving speeches in Macomb.
The courthouse square in Macomb is a real throwback, with local shops and restaurants surrounding the old building. Outside of town, it’s all farmland, with corn and soybean fields stretching as far as you can see.
Winters can be cold, with winds whipping across the open fields and cutting right through you. But summers are gorgeous, perfect for county fairs and outdoor concerts. The people here are friendly, and it’s small-town America at its best.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | McDonough County |
| County Seat | Macomb |
| Etymology | Named after Thomas Macdonough, a commander of American naval forces |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Macomb, Colchester, Blandinsville, and several unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 136, U.S. Highway 67, and Illinois Route 41 |
| FIPS Code | 17-109 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 589 square miles (land: 587 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Henderson County (Northwest), Warren County (North), Fulton County (East), Schuyler County (South), Hancock County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Population | Approximately 30,000 |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 40.4644° N, 90.6694° W |
| Major Landmarks | Western Illinois University, the McDonough County Courthouse, and the scenic trails and parks in the area |
