Cities and Towns in Hamilton County, Illinois
Founded in 1821, Hamilton County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Hamilton County was formed from White County. The city of McLeansboro is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Hamilton County has a population of 7,911 and area of 434 square miles (1,124 km²).
List of all cities in Hamilton County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Belle Prairie City, IL | 62828 | 618/730 |
| Broughton, IL | 62817 | 618/730 |
| Crook, IL | 62859 | 618/730 |
| Dahlgren, IL | 62828 | 618/730 |
| Dale, IL | 62829 | 618/730 |
| Delafield, IL | 62859 | 618/730 |
| Knight Prairie, IL | 62859 | 618/730 |
| Macedonia, IL | 62860 | 618/730 |
| Mayberry, IL | 62817 | 618/730 |
| McLeansboro, IL | 62859 | 618/730 |
| Piopolis, IL | 62859 | 618/730 |
| South Crouch, IL | 62859 | 618/730 |
| South Twigg, IL | 62817 | 618/730 |
| Thackeray, IL | 62859 | 618/730 |
| Twigg, IL | 62829 | 618/730 |
| Walpole, IL | 62817 | 618/730 |
Major Cities and Towns in Hamilton County, Illinois
McLeansboro
Overview
McLeansboro is the county seat and largest city in Hamilton County, located in the southeastern part of Illinois. Founded in 1821 by William McLean, the city was named after him in recognition of his role in securing the establishment of Hamilton County. McLeansboro quickly became the political and commercial center of the county due to its central location and status as the seat of government. The town’s economy was historically based on agriculture and coal mining, but today it includes a mix of small businesses, agriculture, and local industries.
City Details
- Area: 2.97 square miles
- Population: 2,675 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62859
- Latitude: 38.0942° N
- Longitude: 88.5356° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
McLeansboro is served by the Hamilton County Community Unit School District 10, which includes Hamilton County Senior High School and Dahlgren Elementary School. Notable landmarks include the Hamilton County Courthouse, a historic structure built in 1938, and the George Harrison Home, where the Beatles’ guitarist stayed while visiting his sister in 1963. The city is also home to Dolan Lake State Park, a popular spot for fishing, camping, and hiking, offering scenic views and outdoor activities for residents and visitors.
Dahlgren
Overview
Dahlgren is a small village located in the northeastern part of Hamilton County. The village was established in 1872 and named after Admiral John A. Dahlgren, a U.S. naval officer during the Civil War. Dahlgren grew primarily as a result of the railroad, which connected it to other towns and markets in the region. Over time, agriculture became the backbone of the village’s economy, and it remains a quiet rural community today, with strong ties to farming and local industry. Dahlgren is located near Illinois Route 142, providing access to nearby McLeansboro and Mount Vernon.
City Details
- Area: 0.36 square miles
- Population: 525 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62828
- Latitude: 38.1953° N
- Longitude: 88.6834° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dahlgren is part of the Hamilton County School District, with students attending Dahlgren Grade School and Hamilton County Senior High School in McLeansboro. Notable landmarks include the Dahlgren Depot, a historic railroad station that serves as a reminder of the village’s connection to the railroad era. The village park provides a gathering place for local events and recreation. Dahlgren also hosts an annual Homecoming Celebration, which brings together residents and visitors for a weekend of festivities.
Broughton
Overview
Broughton is a small village located in the southeastern part of Hamilton County. It was founded in the mid-19th century, primarily as a farming community, and was later connected to the railroad network, which helped it grow during its early years. Agriculture has remained the backbone of Broughton’s economy, with many residents working in farming or agricultural support industries. The village is located near Illinois Route 142 and is about 15 miles from McLeansboro, making it accessible to nearby towns.
City Details
- Area: 0.36 square miles
- Population: 194 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62817
- Latitude: 37.9344° N
- Longitude: 88.4608° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Broughton is part of the Hamilton County School District, with students attending schools in nearby McLeansboro. The village’s key landmarks include the Broughton Village Park, which hosts local events and provides recreational facilities for residents. Another notable site is the Broughton Baptist Church, a long-standing place of worship in the community. Although small, Broughton’s proximity to the Saline River offers opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking, drawing nature enthusiasts from the area.
Belle Prairie City
Overview
Belle Prairie City is a small village in the northwestern part of Hamilton County, established in the late 19th century. The village originally developed as a farming community, with agriculture continuing to be the primary economic activity today. Belle Prairie City has maintained its rural character and small population, offering residents a peaceful and close-knit environment. The village is located near U.S. Route 45, providing access to nearby towns such as McLeansboro and Fairfield.
City Details
- Area: 0.22 square miles
- Population: 49 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62828
- Latitude: 38.1797° N
- Longitude: 88.5845° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Belle Prairie City is part of the Hamilton County School District, with students attending nearby schools in McLeansboro. Landmarks in Belle Prairie City include the Belle Prairie City Community Center, which serves as a gathering spot for local events and meetings. The surrounding farmland and scenic rural landscapes are an integral part of the village’s identity, attracting those who appreciate a quiet, agricultural lifestyle. The nearby Skillet Fork River offers recreational opportunities for fishing and boating.
Macedonia
Overview
Macedonia is a small village located in the northern part of Hamilton County, near the border with Franklin County. Founded in the mid-19th century, Macedonia began as a small farming settlement. Like other towns in the region, agriculture has played a significant role in its economy, and many residents are involved in farming or related industries. The village is situated near Illinois Route 14, providing access to McLeansboro and other nearby towns such as Benton and Ewing.
City Details
- Area: 0.17 square miles
- Population: 63 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 62860
- Latitude: 38.0476° N
- Longitude: 88.7048° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Macedonia is part of the Hamilton County School District, with students attending schools in McLeansboro. Key landmarks in Macedonia include the Macedonia Baptist Church, a long-standing institution in the village. The Macedonia Community Center serves as a venue for local events and social gatherings. The village is also near Rend Lake, a major recreational area offering fishing, boating, and camping, which attracts visitors from across southern Illinois.
Thurber
Overview
Thurber is an unincorporated community located in the southern part of Hamilton County. Although not officially a village, Thurber has a small population and is primarily a rural, agricultural area. The community is named after a local family and has historically been centered around farming. Thurber’s residents often commute to nearby towns like McLeansboro for shopping, schooling, and services. The area’s quiet, rural nature makes it an attractive place for those looking to live in a peaceful, agricultural setting.
City Details
- Area: Not officially incorporated
- Population: Less than 50 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 62890 (shared with surrounding areas)
- Latitude: 38.0128° N
- Longitude: 88.5903° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thurber is part of the Hamilton County School District, with students attending schools in McLeansboro. The community itself does not have major landmarks, but its rural character and farmland are integral to its identity. Nearby natural areas, including Dolan Lake and the Saline River, offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. Thurber residents often participate in agricultural fairs and events in neighboring towns, further fostering a strong sense of community within the region.