Mercer County, Illinois
Mercer County, Illinois, sits along the Mississippi River. Agriculture plays a big role here. Aledo, the county seat, is known for its annual Rhubarb Festival, which brings visitors from all over.
The county also has strong ties to history. For example, the Mercer County Courthouse dates back to the 1800s. There’s also the Mercer County Jail, which dates back to 1909.
You’ll find a mix of rolling farmland and quiet, scenic spots perfect for a day trip. Mercer County is a peaceful place with deep agricultural roots and a strong sense of community.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Mercer County |
| County Seat | Aledo |
| Etymology | Named after Hugh Mercer, an officer in the American Revolutionary War |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Aledo, Joy, New Windsor, Seaton, and several unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 67, Illinois Route 17, Illinois Route 94 |
| FIPS Code | 17-131 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 591 square miles (land: 590 sq mi, water: 1 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Rock Island County (North), Henry County (East), Knox County (Southeast), Henderson County (South), Warren County (South), Des Moines County, Iowa (Southwest), Louisa County, Iowa (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Population | Approximately 16,000 |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 41.2114° N, 90.7322° W |
| Major Landmarks | Mercer County Courthouse, Aledo City Park, the Old Jail Museum |
