Cities and Towns in Brown County, Illinois
Founded in 1839, Brown County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Brown County was formed from Schuyler County. The city of Mount Sterling is the county seat. With FIPS code of 9, Brown County has a population of 6,421 and area of 305 square miles (790 km²).
List of all cities in Brown County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cooperstown, IL | 62353 | 217 |
| Hersman, IL | 62353 | 217 |
| Mount Sterling, IL | 62353 | 217 |
| Ripley, IL | 62353 | 217 |
| Timewell, IL | 62375 | 217 |
| Versailles, IL | 62378 | 217 |
Major Cities and Towns in Brown County, Illinois
Mount Sterling
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,025 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 62353
- Latitude: 39.9875° N
- Longitude: 90.7632° W
Location and History
Mount Sterling is the county seat and largest city in Brown County, located in western Illinois. It lies approximately 100 miles west of Springfield and about 50 miles east of the Mississippi River. Founded in 1854, Mount Sterling grew as a center for local government and commerce. Its location made it a convenient stop for trade and travel, especially with the rise of the railroad in the late 19th century. The city’s economy historically relied on agriculture, with surrounding farmlands producing corn, soybeans, and livestock. Over time, Mount Sterling developed into a regional hub with a mix of agricultural, manufacturing, and service industries. A key employer in the city is Dot Foods, a major national food redistribution company, which has its headquarters here, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mount Sterling is served by the Brown County Community Unit School District 1, which includes Brown County High School. The school is known for its academic achievements and strong extracurricular programs, including athletics and fine arts. Major landmarks in the city include the Brown County Courthouse, a historic building dating back to the mid-19th century, and the Mount Sterling Historic District, which features several well-preserved buildings reflecting the city’s rich heritage. Another notable site is Siloam Springs State Park, located just outside the city, offering outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
Versailles
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.30 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 62378
- Latitude: 39.8837° N
- Longitude: 90.6557° W
Location and History
Versailles is a small village located in the southern part of Brown County, approximately 10 miles southeast of Mount Sterling. The village was established in 1835, making it one of the oldest settlements in the county. It was named after the famous city of Versailles in France, reflecting the early settlers’ aspirations for growth and prosperity. Throughout the 19th century, Versailles remained a modest but stable farming community. Its early economy revolved around agriculture, with local farmers growing corn, wheat, and raising livestock. The village also served as a regional trade center, with goods moving to and from nearby towns. Today, Versailles retains its rural character, with much of its original small-town charm still evident.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Versailles is part of the Brown County Community Unit School District 1, with students attending schools in nearby Mount Sterling. While the village is small, it is home to several local landmarks, including the Versailles Baptist Church, one of the oldest churches in the county, and the Versailles Community Park, which provides recreational space for residents. Another point of interest is the historic LaMoine River, which runs nearby and has played a significant role in the area’s early transportation and commerce. The village’s quiet setting and rich history make it an appealing place for those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle.
Ripley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 62353
- Latitude: 40.0003° N
- Longitude: 90.6690° W
Location and History
Ripley is a small village located in the eastern part of Brown County, near the Illinois River. Founded in the early 1830s, Ripley is one of the earliest settlements in the region. Its location along the LaMoine River made it a strategic spot for early settlers, as the river provided a natural transportation route. In its early years, Ripley thrived as a small trading post and agricultural community. However, as transportation routes shifted away from the rivers and toward railroads, the village’s growth slowed. Despite its small size, Ripley has a rich history tied to the early development of Brown County, and it continues to be a quiet, rural community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ripley is served by the Brown County Community Unit School District 1, with students attending schools in Mount Sterling. Landmarks in the village include the Ripley United Methodist Church, a historic building that has been a center for community gatherings and worship for over a century. Another notable landmark is the village’s proximity to the LaMoine River, which remains a scenic and historic feature of the area. Although Ripley is small, its quiet rural environment and historic charm offer a peaceful way of life for its residents.
Timewell
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.25 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 62375
- Latitude: 39.9614° N
- Longitude: 90.8868° W
Location and History
Timewell is a small village located in the western part of Brown County, close to the Adams County line. The village was established in 1869, during the expansion of the railroad network through the region. Named after an early settler, Timewell grew around its train station, which served as a crucial point for the transportation of goods and people. For many years, the village thrived as an agricultural center, with nearby farms producing grain, livestock, and other products. However, like many small rural communities, Timewell experienced a decline in population as transportation and industry shifted. Today, Timewell remains a small, close-knit community with a strong agricultural presence.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Timewell is part of the Brown County Community Unit School District 1, with students attending schools in Mount Sterling. Landmarks in the village include the Timewell Elevator, a historic grain elevator that symbolizes the town’s agricultural heritage. The village also hosts several community events throughout the year, reflecting its tight-knit nature. Additionally, Timewell’s surrounding farmlands and quiet countryside provide scenic views and a rural charm that attract visitors and residents alike. Despite its small size, Timewell remains a proud part of Brown County’s agricultural landscape.
Mound Station
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.10 square miles
- Population: Approximately 120 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 62375
- Latitude: 39.9642° N
- Longitude: 90.8354° W
Location and History
Mound Station is a small village located in central Brown County. It was originally established in the mid-19th century as a railroad station for the surrounding farming communities. The village was named after the nearby mound formations that were once prominent features of the landscape. The railroad played a significant role in Mound Station’s early development, serving as a key point for transporting agricultural products from local farms to larger markets. Over time, the village remained small, as much of its population depended on the agricultural economy. Today, Mound Station is a quiet, rural community with a history deeply connected to the railroads and farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mound Station is served by the Brown County Community Unit School District 1, with students attending schools in nearby Mount Sterling. The village is home to the historic Mound Station Depot, which serves as a reminder of the village’s railroad history. Other notable landmarks include the rolling farmlands surrounding the village, which continue to be cultivated by local farmers. Mound Station’s peaceful rural setting, combined with its historical roots, provides a serene lifestyle for its residents, with community events and local gatherings reinforcing the village’s tight-knit nature.
