Cities and Towns in Gallatin County, Illinois
Founded in 1812, Gallatin County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Gallatin County was formed from Randolph County. The city of Shawneetown is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Gallatin County has a population of 4,903 and area of 322 square miles (834 km²).
List of all cities in Gallatin County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Asbury, IL | 62871 | 618/730 |
| Bowlesville, IL | 62984 | 618/730 |
| Elba, IL | 62871 | 618/730 |
| Equality, IL | 62934 | 618/730 |
| Gold Hill, IL | 62984 | 618/730 |
| Junction, IL | 62954 | 618/730 |
| New Haven, IL | 62867 | 618/730 |
| North Fork, IL | 62979 | 618/730 |
| Old Shawneetown, IL | 62984 | 618/730 |
| Omaha, IL | 62871 | 618/730 |
| Ridgway, IL | 62979 | 618/730 |
| Shawnee, IL | 62984 | 618/730 |
| Shawneetown, IL | 62984 | 618/730 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gallatin County, Illinois
Shawneetown
Overview
Shawneetown is the oldest city in Gallatin County and one of the oldest European settlements in Illinois, founded in 1812. It is located along the Ohio River, just west of the Illinois-Kentucky border, and historically served as an important port city for trade. Shawneetown’s strategic location on the river made it a hub for commerce, particularly during the 19th century when river traffic was essential for transporting goods. Despite suffering from devastating floods, particularly the Great Flood of 1937, Shawneetown has managed to preserve its historical significance.
City Details
- Area: 0.97 square miles
- Population: 1,011 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62984
- Latitude: 37.7150° N
- Longitude: 88.1833° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shawneetown is served by the Gallatin Community Unit School District, which includes Gallatin County High School, Gallatin County Middle School, and Gallatin County Elementary School, located in nearby Junction. The Old Shawneetown Bank, established in 1836 and one of the oldest banks in the state, is a key historical landmark. The Shawneetown Historical Society maintains several other historical buildings in town. Additionally, the Ohio River Scenic Byway, which passes through Shawneetown, provides beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
Ridgway
Overview
Ridgway is a small town located in central Gallatin County, roughly 10 miles west of Shawneetown. Founded in 1866, the town grew rapidly as a railroad hub, with agriculture, particularly the cultivation of corn and soybeans, driving much of its economy. Ridgway also became known as the “Popcorn Capital of the World” due to its significant popcorn production. The town is located along Illinois Route 1, providing access to larger cities like Harrisburg to the northwest.
City Details
- Area: 0.63 square miles
- Population: 787 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62979
- Latitude: 37.7978° N
- Longitude: 88.2623° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ridgway is part of the Gallatin County School District, with most students attending schools in nearby Junction. Notable landmarks in Ridgway include the St. Joseph Catholic Church, a stunning Gothic Revival building that serves as the focal point of the town. Ridgway also hosts the annual Popcorn Day festival, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage. The town’s old railroad depot, now a community center, stands as a reminder of its historical connection to the railway industry.
Equality
Overview
Equality is a small village located in the southeastern part of Gallatin County, approximately 10 miles south of Shawneetown. The town was established in 1826 and played a significant role in Illinois’ early salt production industry. The nearby Saline River provided the necessary resources for salt extraction, and Equality became a key supplier of salt for much of the Midwest during the 19th century. Today, Equality is a quiet, rural community that celebrates its rich history.
City Details
- Area: 0.97 square miles
- Population: 595 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62934
- Latitude: 37.7306° N
- Longitude: 88.3420° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Equality students attend schools in the Gallatin County School District, with facilities located in Junction. The town’s major landmarks include the historic Old Slave House, also known as the Crenshaw House, which is connected to the state’s darker history of slavery and human trafficking. Additionally, the nearby Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, part of the Shawnee National Forest, offers stunning rock formations and hiking trails, attracting visitors from across the region.
Junction
Overview
Junction is a small village located near the center of Gallatin County. It was named after its location as a junction point where multiple railroad lines converged. The village was established in the mid-19th century and has historically been a small agricultural community. Junction serves as a central point for many of Gallatin County’s schools and government services. It is located near the confluence of the Saline and Ohio Rivers, providing easy access to the surrounding towns and natural attractions.
City Details
- Area: 0.53 square miles
- Population: 117 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62954
- Latitude: 37.7212° N
- Longitude: 88.2411° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Junction is home to the Gallatin County School District’s central campus, which includes Gallatin County High School, Middle School, and Elementary School, serving students from across the county. Major landmarks in Junction include the Gallatin County Courthouse, which houses many local government offices. Additionally, the Saline River flows nearby, providing opportunities for fishing and boating. Junction also acts as a gateway to the Shawnee National Forest, which lies to the west.
New Haven
Overview
New Haven is a village located in the northeastern part of Gallatin County, along the Little Wabash River, and is near the Illinois-Indiana border. Founded in 1818, the village grew as a result of its location on a key river transportation route. The river played a critical role in the local economy, especially during the 19th century when steamboats and flatboats carried goods to larger markets. Today, New Haven remains a quiet rural community that embraces its small-town heritage.
City Details
- Area: 0.86 square miles
- Population: 421 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62867
- Latitude: 37.9150° N
- Longitude: 88.1243° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
New Haven is part of the Gallatin County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Junction. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Little Wabash River, which continues to be a natural attraction for residents and visitors alike, offering fishing and canoeing opportunities. Additionally, the nearby Beall Woods State Park provides miles of hiking trails through ancient forests. The New Haven Presbyterian Church, a historic building dating back to the 19th century, stands as a testament to the town’s rich history.
Omaha
Overview
Omaha is a small village located in the western part of Gallatin County, near the border with Saline County. The village was established in the 1870s and grew as a result of the extension of the railroad through the area. Like much of Gallatin County, Omaha has a strong agricultural heritage, with farming continuing to be the primary economic activity in the region. It is located along Illinois Route 1, making it easily accessible to neighboring towns like Ridgway and Eldorado.
City Details
- Area: 0.61 square miles
- Population: 216 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62871
- Latitude: 37.8900° N
- Longitude: 88.3026° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Omaha is served by the Gallatin County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Junction. Key landmarks in Omaha include the historic Omaha Baptist Church, a long-standing place of worship in the community. The village is also close to the Shawnee National Forest, offering easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Additionally, the Omaha Community Center hosts local events and serves as a gathering spot for residents.
