Cities and Towns in Boone County, Illinois
Founded in 1837, Boone County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Boone County was formed from Winnebago County. The city of Belvidere is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Boone County has a population of 53,159 and area of 280 square miles (725 km²).
List of all cities in Boone County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Argyle, IL | 61011 | 815/779 |
| Belvidere, IL | 61008 | 815/779 |
| Blaine, IL | 61065 | 815/779 |
| Bonus, IL | 61038 | 815/779 |
| Caledonia, IL | 61011 | 815/779 |
| Candlewick Lake, IL | 61065 | 815/779 |
| Capron, IL | 61012 | 815/779 |
| Garden Prairie, IL | 61038 | 815/779 |
| Poplar Grove, IL | 61065 | 815/779 |
Major Cities and Towns in Boone County, Illinois
Belvidere
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 12.11 square miles
- Population: Approximately 25,339 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 61008
- Latitude: 42.2634° N
- Longitude: 88.8445° W
Location and History
Belvidere is the county seat of Boone County, located in northern Illinois along the Kishwaukee River, about 75 miles northwest of Chicago. Established in 1835, the city began as a small settlement due to its position along the river and quickly developed into a transportation hub with the arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century. Over time, the city transitioned from an agricultural-based economy to one driven by manufacturing. By the 20th century, Belvidere became a vital part of the Midwest’s automobile manufacturing industry, with Chrysler’s plant being one of the city’s major employers. The town has faced challenges from flooding due to its location near the Kishwaukee River but has adapted with flood control measures and growth.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Belvidere is served by the Belvidere Community Unit School District 100, which includes Belvidere High School and Belvidere North High School, known for their strong academic and athletic programs. Major landmarks in the city include the Boone County Courthouse, a historic building constructed in 1901, and the Pettit Memorial Chapel, designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The Belvidere Park District also offers recreational spaces, including the Belvidere Park and Spencer Conservation Area, which are popular for family activities and outdoor enjoyment.
Poplar Grove
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 8.05 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,023 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 61065
- Latitude: 42.3673° N
- Longitude: 88.8237° W
Location and History
Poplar Grove is a village located in the northern part of Boone County, roughly 15 miles east of Rockford, Illinois. It was established in 1859 and named after the abundance of poplar trees in the area. Historically, Poplar Grove developed as a rural agricultural community. Its growth was initially slow, but the town experienced a population boom in the late 20th and early 21st centuries due to suburban development as more people moved from larger cities like Rockford and Chicago for a quieter lifestyle. The village still retains its rural charm, with farmlands and scenic views contributing to its appeal.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Poplar Grove is part of the North Boone Community Unit School District 200, with schools such as North Boone High School serving the local population. The village is home to the Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum, a unique attraction that showcases vintage aircraft, automobiles, and memorabilia, reflecting the area’s historical connection to aviation. Another landmark is the Edwards Apple Orchard, a popular seasonal destination for families offering fresh apples, cider, and various fall activities, drawing visitors from across the region.
Capron
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.75 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 61012
- Latitude: 42.3969° N
- Longitude: 88.7384° W
Location and History
Capron is a small village located in north-central Boone County, close to the Wisconsin border. It was founded in 1853 during the construction of the Kenosha Division Railroad. The village was named after one of its early settlers, John Capron, who played a significant role in its establishment. Capron has maintained a strong agricultural presence throughout its history, with farming being the backbone of its economy for many decades. The town remained small, even as other areas experienced growth due to suburban expansion. Today, Capron is known for its quiet, rural setting and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Capron is part of the North Boone Community Unit School District 200, which includes Capron Elementary School. The village’s main landmarks include Lions Park, a community space that offers recreational facilities and serves as a gathering spot for local events. The Capron Grain Elevator, a historic structure, is another notable site that reflects the village’s long-standing agricultural roots. Nearby, the Candlewick Lake community offers a picturesque residential area with a private lake, contributing to the town’s serene and rural charm.
Caledonia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.38 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 61011
- Latitude: 42.3728° N
- Longitude: 88.8832° W
Location and History
Caledonia is a small village located in the southeastern part of Boone County, just north of Belvidere. It was established in 1838, named after the Latin word for Scotland, “Caledonia,” reflecting the Scottish heritage of many of its early settlers. Historically, the village remained a quiet agricultural community, growing slowly due to its rural location. The village was a stop along the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad, which played a key role in its early development. Today, Caledonia remains a small but proud community, with agriculture continuing to play an essential role in the local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Caledonia is served by the Belvidere Community Unit School District 100, with Caledonia Elementary School providing primary education for local children. The village is home to several small, family-owned farms, some of which have been passed down through generations. Major landmarks include the Caledonia Cemetery, where many of the town’s early settlers are buried, and the Caledonia Community Church, a historic building that has been a center of local worship since the 19th century. The village’s scenic farmlands and proximity to larger cities like Rockford make it a peaceful yet accessible place to live.
