Cities and Towns in Douglas County, Illinois
Founded in 1859, Douglas County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Douglas County was formed from Coles County. The city of Tuscola is the county seat. With FIPS code of 41, Douglas County has a population of 19,722 and area of 416 square miles (1,077 km²).
List of all cities in Douglas County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arcola, IL | 61910 | 217 |
| Arthur, IL | 61911 | 217 |
| Atwood, IL | 61913 | 217 |
| Camargo, IL | 61919 | 217 |
| Chesterville, IL | 61911 | 217 |
| Garrett, IL | 61913 | 217 |
| Hindsboro, IL | 61930 | 217 |
| Murdock, IL | 61941 | 217 |
| Newman, IL | 61942 | 217 |
| Tuscola, IL | 61953 | 217 |
| Villa Grove, IL | 61956 | 217 |
Major Cities and Towns in Douglas County, Illinois
Tuscola
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.83 square miles
- Population: 4,429 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 61953
- Latitude: 39.7998° N
- Longitude: 88.2828° W
Location and History
Tuscola, the county seat of Douglas County, is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 36 and Interstate 57, about 25 miles south of Champaign, Illinois. Founded in 1857, Tuscola developed as a railroad town, thanks to the construction of the Illinois Central Railroad, which brought commerce and residents to the area. The town became the county seat shortly after Douglas County was established in 1859. Agriculture, particularly corn and soybean farming, has long been central to the local economy. Over time, Tuscola has evolved into a small but bustling community, attracting residents from rural areas for its amenities and services.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tuscola is served by Tuscola Community Unit School District 301, with Tuscola High School being the main public high school. The town is home to several significant landmarks, including the Douglas County Courthouse, a historic building dating back to 1913, and Ervin Park, which offers sports fields, playgrounds, and a popular swimming pool. The Iron Horse Golf Club is another recreational hub for residents and visitors. Additionally, The Vault Art Gallery, housed in a former bank, serves as a local center for the arts, showcasing works from regional artists.
Arcola
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.02 square miles
- Population: 2,841 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 61910
- Latitude: 39.6848° N
- Longitude: 88.3056° W
Location and History
Arcola is located in southern Douglas County, just off Interstate 57, about 35 miles south of Champaign. Founded in 1855 as a railroad town, Arcola rapidly developed as a key transportation and agricultural hub. The town is known for its deep ties to the Amish community, which settled in the surrounding countryside during the 1860s. Arcola celebrates its Amish heritage through events and tourism, and it is the birthplace of Johnny Gruelle, the creator of the famous Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. The town continues to thrive today, balancing its agricultural roots with local businesses and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arcola is part of Arcola Community Unit School District 306, with Arcola Junior-Senior High School serving the community’s students. Arcola is renowned for its annual Broom Corn Festival, celebrating its history as the “Broom Corn Capital of the World.” Major landmarks include the Raggedy Ann & Andy Museum, paying tribute to the town’s famous native son, and the Hippie Memorial, an eccentric public art installation honoring the counterculture movement. Arcola’s proximity to the Amish countryside also makes it a popular destination for visitors interested in Amish crafts, food, and traditions.
Villa Grove
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.20 square miles
- Population: 2,397 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 61956
- Latitude: 39.8645° N
- Longitude: 88.1594° W
Location and History
Villa Grove is located along the Embarras River in the northeastern part of Douglas County, approximately 20 miles southeast of Champaign. Established in 1903, Villa Grove grew as a railroad town when the Chicago and Eastern Illinois Railroad extended its tracks through the area. The town quickly became a shipping point for agricultural products from nearby farms, especially corn and livestock. Over time, Villa Grove evolved into a small residential community while maintaining its agricultural ties. Its river location has also given the town a unique landscape, with recreational opportunities tied to the Embarras River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Villa Grove is served by Villa Grove Community Unit School District 302, with Villa Grove High School being the primary institution. Notable landmarks include the Villa Grove Heritage Museum, which documents the history of the town and its relationship with the railroad. The town also features the Embarras River Bridge, a historic structure built in the early 20th century. Recreational spots like Richman Park offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields, while the Embarras River provides fishing and kayaking opportunities for locals and visitors.
Arthur
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.48 square miles
- Population: 2,292 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 61911
- Latitude: 39.7100° N
- Longitude: 88.4710° W
Location and History
Arthur, partially located in both Douglas and Moultrie counties, is situated in the southwestern part of Douglas County, about 40 miles southwest of Champaign. Founded in 1873, Arthur’s origins are closely tied to the expansion of the railroad, which enabled the town to become an agricultural and commercial center. The community is known for its large Amish population, one of the largest in Illinois, which has shaped its cultural and economic landscape. Horse-drawn buggies are a common sight in Arthur, and the town is a major center for Amish woodworking, crafts, and agritourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arthur is part of Arthur Community Unit School District 305, with Arthur Lovington Atwood Hammond High School serving local students. Significant landmarks include the Amish Country Welcome Center, which provides information about the Amish lifestyle and directs visitors to local businesses. The Arthur Cheese Festival, held annually, is a major draw for residents and tourists alike. Additionally, Downtown Arthur features a mix of Amish-owned shops and restaurants, offering handcrafted goods, homemade foods, and a glimpse into the region’s rich Amish heritage.
Newman
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.85 square miles
- Population: 825 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 61942
- Latitude: 39.7981° N
- Longitude: 87.9861° W
Location and History
Newman is located in the southeastern part of Douglas County, approximately 30 miles southeast of Champaign. Founded in 1857, Newman developed as a small agricultural community, largely supported by the surrounding farms producing corn and soybeans. The construction of the Danville and Western Railroad in the late 19th century helped solidify Newman’s role as a regional shipping point. Although small in size, Newman has maintained its agricultural roots and offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle for its residents. Its history reflects the growth of small towns in Illinois centered around agriculture and transportation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Newman is served by Shiloh Community Unit School District 1, with Shiloh High School being the primary school. The town’s landmarks include Veterans Memorial Park, which honors local veterans and provides a gathering space for community events. The Newman First Christian Church, established in the late 19th century, is a significant historic structure that continues to serve as a religious and community center. Newman also hosts various small-town festivals, where residents celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage and community spirit.
