Cities and Towns in Adams County, Illinois
Founded in 1825, Adams County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Adams County was formed from Pike County. The city of Quincy is the county seat. With FIPS code of 1, Adams County has a population of 64,954 and area of 855 square miles (2,214 km²).
List of all cities in Adams County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Adams, IL | 62347 | 217 |
| Bigneck, IL | 62349 | 217 |
| Bluff Hall, IL | 62360 | 217 |
| Burton, IL | 62301 | 217 |
| Camp Point, IL | 62320 | 217 |
| Chestline, IL | 62347 | 217 |
| Clayton, IL | 62324 | 217 |
| Coatsburg, IL | 62325 | 217 |
| Columbus, IL | 62305 | 217 |
| 62320 | 217 | |
| Fall Creek, IL | 62360 | 217 |
| Fowler, IL | 62338 | 217 |
| Golden, IL | 62339 | 217 |
| Kellerville, IL | 62324 | 217 |
| La Prairie, IL | 62346 | 217 |
| Liberty, IL | 62347 | 217 |
| Lima, IL | 62348 | 217 |
| Loraine, IL | 62349 | 217 |
| Marblehead, IL | 62301 | 217 |
| Marcelline, IL | 62376 | 217 |
| Mendon, IL | 62351 | 217 |
| Paloma, IL | 62359 | 217 |
| Payson, IL | 62360 | 217 |
| Plainville, IL | 62365 | 217 |
| Quincy, IL | 62301 | 217 |
| 62305 | 217 | |
| 62306 | 217 | |
| Richfield, IL | 62365 | 217 |
| Tioga, IL | 62351 | 217 |
| Ursa, IL | 62376 | 217 |
Major Cities and Towns in Adams County, Illinois
Quincy
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 15.91 square miles
- Population: Approximately 39,463 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62301, 62305
- Latitude: 39.9356° N
- Longitude: 91.4099° W
Location and History
Quincy is located on the banks of the Mississippi River, serving as the county seat of Adams County. The city was founded in 1825 and quickly grew due to its strategic location along river trade routes. It played an essential role in westward expansion during the 19th century and was a vital stop for travelers along the Underground Railroad. Quincy became a hub for commerce, education, and politics, and today, it retains a strong historical presence with its many well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Quincy’s history includes its support of the Union during the Civil War and its contribution to industry in Illinois.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Quincy is home to several educational institutions, including Quincy University, a private Franciscan university known for its liberal arts programs. Other major schools include Quincy Senior High School and John Wood Community College. Prominent landmarks in the city include Villa Kathrine, a unique Mediterranean-style castle that overlooks the Mississippi River, and the Quincy Museum, housed in a historic mansion showcasing the city’s rich heritage. The Washington Park area also stands as a historic downtown site that reflects Quincy’s architectural and cultural legacy.
Camp Point
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.35 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,132 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62320
- Latitude: 40.0389° N
- Longitude: 91.0654° W
Location and History
Camp Point is situated in the eastern part of Adams County and was founded in the mid-19th century. It originally developed as a small agricultural town, serving as a hub for farmers and settlers moving westward. The town is known for its rich soils and agrarian economy, making it a center for farming communities. During its early years, Camp Point was a stop on the historic Hannibal and Naples Railroad, which contributed to its early economic growth. Today, it remains a quintessential small Midwestern town, embodying the peaceful rural lifestyle that is characteristic of this part of Illinois.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Camp Point houses the Central High School, which serves as the primary secondary school for the surrounding communities. Another notable educational institution is Central Elementary School. Landmarks in Camp Point include Bailey Park, a recreational area often used for community events and sports activities. Another notable site is the Camp Point Depot Museum, which reflects the town’s railroad history. This small yet historically rich town serves as a quiet retreat from the bustling cities, and its historical architecture provides insight into 19th-century Midwestern life.
Liberty
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.65 square miles
- Population: Approximately 513 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62347
- Latitude: 39.8781° N
- Longitude: 91.1079° W
Location and History
Liberty is located southeast of Quincy and was established in 1839. The town was originally named “Libertyville” in honor of the American ideals of freedom and independence, reflecting the sentiments of its early settlers. Liberty’s history is rooted in agriculture, with many of its original settlers being farmers who tilled the fertile soils of the region. Over the years, Liberty remained a close-knit farming community, with minimal industrial development. The town has managed to retain much of its original charm and rural character, providing a snapshot of life in 19th-century rural Illinois.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Liberty is served by the Liberty Community Unit School District, which includes Liberty Elementary School and Liberty High School. These institutions form the core of educational life in the town. The Liberty Christian Church, one of the town’s oldest establishments, stands as a symbol of the town’s enduring faith-based community. Landmarks include the Veterans Memorial Park, which honors local soldiers and is often used for community gatherings. The Liberty Historical Society also plays a role in preserving the town’s rich history through exhibitions and events.
Mendon
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.93 square miles
- Population: Approximately 952 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62351
- Latitude: 40.0875° N
- Longitude: 91.2849° W
Location and History
Mendon is located in the northern part of Adams County and was settled in the early 1830s by pioneers migrating from the East. The town quickly developed as a farming community, benefiting from the fertile lands in the region. Mendon’s development was closely tied to the construction of railroads in the 19th century, which helped to transport agricultural products to larger markets. The town also has a long-standing tradition of civic engagement, with its residents participating in community-driven activities. Mendon embodies the spirit of rural Illinois, with its agricultural roots remaining an essential part of its identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mendon is home to Unity High School, a major institution serving the educational needs of the community. Another prominent educational facility is Unity Middle School. Mendon is known for its annual events, including the Mendon Pumpkin Festival, which attracts visitors from around the region. Major landmarks include the Mendon Cemetery, which offers a glimpse into the town’s past through its historical grave markers, and the Adams County Fairgrounds, located nearby, which host a variety of regional events throughout the year, including the county fair that draws large crowds.
Payson
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.68 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,025 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62360
- Latitude: 39.8122° N
- Longitude: 91.2456° W
Location and History
Payson, situated in the southern part of Adams County, was established in the 1830s. The town was named after Payson, Massachusetts, in honor of the hometown of some of its early settlers. Initially, Payson served as a trading center for local farmers who supplied agricultural goods to nearby Quincy. The town grew slowly but steadily, maintaining its agricultural roots while adapting to the changing dynamics of rural America. Payson’s historical importance lies in its role as a local center for trade and community gatherings. Its quiet, tree-lined streets reflect the town’s commitment to preserving its heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Payson is served by Payson Seymour High School, which plays a significant role in the educational life of the community. Payson Elementary School also provides education for younger students. A key landmark in the town is the Payson Congregational Church, one of the oldest churches in the area, which has been a focal point of religious and social activities. Another notable site is Payson Memorial Park, where locals gather for recreational activities and events. The historic downtown area also showcases the town’s 19th-century architecture and serves as a reminder of its long-standing role in Adams County’s rural economy.