Cities and Towns in Alexander County, Illinois
Founded in 1819, Alexander County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Alexander County was formed from Union County. The city of Cairo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 3, Alexander County has a population of 5,030 and area of 236 square miles (611 km²).
List of all cities in Alexander County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cache, IL | 62914 | 618/730 |
| Cairo, IL | 62914 | 618/730 |
| East Cape Girardeau, IL | 62957 | 618/730 |
| Elco, IL | 62988 | 618/730 |
| Fayville, IL | 62990 | 618/730 |
| Future City, IL | 62914 | 618/730 |
| Gale, IL | 62990 | 618/730 |
| Klondike, IL | 62914 | 618/730 |
| McClure, IL | 62957 | 618/730 |
| Miller City, IL | 62962 | 618/730 |
| Olive Branch, IL | 62969 | 618/730 |
| Tamms, IL | 62988 | 618/730 |
| 62993 | 618/730 | |
| Thebes, IL | 62990 | 618/730 |
| Unity, IL | 62993 | 618/730 |
| Urbandale, IL | 62914 | 618/730 |
Major Cities and Towns in Alexander County, Illinois
Cairo
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 9.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,733 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62914
- Latitude: 37.0059° N
- Longitude: 89.1766° W
Location and History
Cairo is located at the southernmost tip of Illinois, where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers converge. This strategic location made it an important city for trade and transportation in the 19th century, especially during the Civil War. Cairo was incorporated in 1818, and due to its river access, it became a booming commercial hub in the mid-1800s. It served as a critical supply base for Union forces during the Civil War. After the war, Cairo continued to thrive until the late 20th century when railroads and highways lessened its reliance on river trade. Cairo’s rich history, marked by both economic prosperity and struggles with racial tensions, is still evident in its historic buildings and streets.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cairo is served by Cairo Junior/Senior High School and Bennett Elementary School, which provide education for the town’s youth. The town is home to several significant landmarks, including the Cairo Custom House Museum, a federal building constructed in 1872, and Magnolia Manor, a Victorian mansion turned museum that exemplifies the wealth of 19th-century Cairo. Fort Defiance Park, located at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, offers visitors a scenic spot with a deep historical connection to the Civil War and the area’s shipping history.
Thebes
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 332 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62990
- Latitude: 37.2164° N
- Longitude: 89.4573° W
Location and History
Thebes is located along the Mississippi River, northwest of Cairo. Established in the early 19th century, Thebes was once a major river town and served as the county seat of Alexander County. The town’s location along the river made it an important port and ferry point in its early days. Thebes also has a rich legal history, as Abraham Lincoln once practiced law in its courthouse, the Thebes Courthouse, which remains one of the most notable historical sites in the town. As river traffic diminished, so did Thebes’ prominence, but its historical significance remains an important aspect of the town’s identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thebes does not have its own school system and is served by neighboring districts for educational services. The most famous landmark is the Thebes Courthouse, built in 1848, where Abraham Lincoln practiced law. The courthouse offers a glimpse into the legal history of the area and remains a popular tourist destination. Another significant site is the Thebes Landing, which once served as a key port along the Mississippi River. Although Thebes is a small town today, its rich history and the beauty of its riverfront location make it a unique place in southern Illinois.
Tamms
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 440 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62988
- Latitude: 37.2414° N
- Longitude: 89.2684° W
Location and History
Tamms is located in central Alexander County, and it was incorporated in 1906. Originally established as a railroad town, Tamms grew as a small but important community for local industries, including agriculture and manufacturing. In the 20th century, the town became known for housing the Tamms Correctional Center, a high-security prison that operated from 1998 until its closure in 2013. The town’s history is closely tied to the development of railroads in the region, which provided access for goods and transportation in an otherwise rural and isolated area of southern Illinois.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tamms is served by the Egyptian Community Unit School District, which includes Egyptian High School located in nearby Tamms Junction. Major landmarks in the area include the now-closed Tamms Correctional Center, which was a major employer in the town during its operation. Additionally, Tamms is known for its proximity to Horseshoe Lake, a popular destination for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Although small, Tamms provides a quiet rural lifestyle with access to both historical and natural landmarks.
McClure
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62957
- Latitude: 37.2939° N
- Longitude: 89.4265° W
Location and History
McClure is a small village located in the northeastern part of Alexander County, near the Mississippi River. The village was established in the late 19th century and has historically been an agricultural community. Its proximity to the Mississippi River has shaped much of its history, as the town has been susceptible to flooding over the years, including significant floods in 1993. Despite its challenges, McClure has remained a small but stable community with deep roots in farming and river-related commerce.
Major Schools and Landmarks
McClure is part of the Shawnee School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns. A major landmark in McClure is the Mississippi River Levee, which serves as a vital protective structure for the town and its agricultural lands. Additionally, McClure is located near the scenic Shawnee National Forest, providing residents and visitors with access to hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. The town’s close-knit nature and its connection to the river continue to define its character.
Olive Branch
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 62969
- Latitude: 37.1764° N
- Longitude: 89.3518° W
Location and History
Olive Branch is a small, unincorporated community located in northern Alexander County near Horseshoe Lake. It was established in the mid-19th century, primarily as a farming community. Olive Branch has a rich agricultural history, with its fertile lands supporting crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. The town has faced numerous floods over the years, most notably the Great Flood of 1993, which caused significant damage to the area. Despite these challenges, Olive Branch continues to be a center for agriculture and outdoor recreation, thanks to its proximity to Horseshoe Lake and the surrounding wetlands.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Olive Branch is part of the Egyptian Community Unit School District. A major natural landmark in the area is Horseshoe Lake, which is one of the largest natural lakes in Illinois and serves as a wildlife refuge. The Horseshoe Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hunting, and birdwatching. Another significant landmark is the Cache River Wetlands, located nearby, which provides vital habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. Olive Branch’s connection to the natural environment is one of its defining features, and it draws visitors who appreciate its scenic beauty.
