Cities and Towns in Hancock County, Illinois

Founded in 1825, Hancock County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Hancock County was formed from Adams County. The city of Carthage is the county seat. With FIPS code of 67, Hancock County has a population of 17,400 and area of 793 square miles (2,054 km²).

List of all cities in Hancock County, IL alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Adrian, IL	62330	217
Augusta, IL	62311	217
Basco, IL	62313	217
Bentley, IL	62321	217
Birmingham, IL	62367	309
Bowen, IL	62316	217
Burnside, IL	62330	217
Carthage, IL	62321	217
Colmar, IL	62367	309
Colusa, IL	62329	217
Dallas City, IL	62330	217
Denver, IL	62321	217
Elvaston, IL	62334	217
Ferris, IL	62336	217
Fountain Green, IL	62321	217
Hamilton, IL	62341	217
Harmony, IL	62321	217
La Crosse, IL	61450	217
La Harpe, IL	61450	217
McCall, IL	62321	217
Nauvoo, IL	62354	217
Niota, IL	62358	217
Pilot Grove, IL	62330	217
Plymouth, IL	62367	309
Pontoosuc, IL	62330	217
Stillwell, IL	62380	217
Sutter, IL	62373	217
Warsaw, IL	62379	217
Webster, IL	62321	217
West Point, IL	62380	217

Major Cities and Towns in Hancock County, Illinois

Carthage

Overview

Carthage is the county seat of Hancock County, located in the western part of Illinois. Founded in 1838, Carthage has a rich history that includes being the site where Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), was killed in 1844. The town was named after the ancient city of Carthage and grew as a center for agriculture and government services. Carthage is located along U.S. Route 136, making it accessible to other nearby towns like Macomb and Quincy. The town remains a political and cultural hub for Hancock County.

City Details

• Area: 2.44 square miles
• Population: 2,490 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 62321
• Latitude: 40.4142° N
• Longitude: 91.1340° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carthage is served by the Illini West High School District and the Carthage Elementary School District. Major landmarks include the historic Carthage Jail, a museum that commemorates the site of Joseph Smith’s martyrdom, attracting LDS visitors from around the world. Another notable landmark is the Hancock County Courthouse, which dates back to the 19th century and remains an architectural highlight of the downtown area. The Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum offers exhibits on local history, and nearby Lake Carthage provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.

Nauvoo

Overview

Nauvoo, located along the Mississippi River in the western part of Hancock County, is one of the most historically significant towns in the region. It was founded in 1839 by Joseph Smith and his followers of the LDS Church. Nauvoo quickly became one of the largest cities in Illinois during the 1840s but saw a rapid decline after Smith’s death and the subsequent migration of his followers to Utah. Today, Nauvoo is a major destination for religious tourism, with visitors coming to explore its rich history and beautifully restored 19th-century buildings.

City Details

• Area: 4.83 square miles
• Population: 970 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 62354
• Latitude: 40.5440° N
• Longitude: 91.3813° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Nauvoo-Colusa Junior High School and Nauvoo-Colusa Elementary School serve the local population. Key landmarks in Nauvoo include the Nauvoo Temple, a beautiful reconstruction of the original LDS temple, and Nauvoo State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and access to the Mississippi River. The Nauvoo Historic District preserves many of the buildings from the city’s early LDS period, including homes, shops, and the Red Brick Store, where Joseph Smith once conducted church business. The city’s religious and cultural festivals, like the Nauvoo Pageant, draw large crowds every summer.

Hamilton

Overview

Hamilton is located along the banks of the Mississippi River, directly across from Keokuk, Iowa. Founded in the 1850s, Hamilton was named after John Hamilton, an early settler. The city developed as a river town, benefiting from its strategic position along the Mississippi for trade and transportation. Throughout its history, Hamilton has maintained a mix of agriculture, industry, and river-based commerce. The Keokuk Dam and Power Plant, which spans the Mississippi River, is a notable industrial development that brought economic growth to the area in the early 20th century.

City Details

• Area: 6.15 square miles
• Population: 2,880 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 62341
• Latitude: 40.3973° N
• Longitude: 91.3743° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hamilton is served by the Hamilton Community School District, which includes Hamilton High School and Hamilton Elementary School. Key landmarks in the city include the Keokuk-Hamilton Dam, an impressive feat of engineering that played a crucial role in the region’s industrial development. The nearby Lock and Dam No. 19 allows for navigation of the Mississippi River and attracts tourists interested in the history of river transport. The Montebello State Park, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails and scenic views of the river, while the Hamilton Public Library, a historic Carnegie library, remains a cornerstone of the community.

Warsaw

Overview

Warsaw is a small city located along the Mississippi River in the southwestern part of Hancock County. It was founded in 1834 and named after Warsaw, Poland, in recognition of the city’s role in promoting liberty and independence. Warsaw became a significant river town, with its economy historically focused on trade and transportation along the Mississippi River. Over the years, the city has evolved into a quiet residential community while retaining its historical charm. Warsaw’s location along the river provides stunning views and recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors.

City Details

• Area: 3.62 square miles
• Population: 1,450 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 62379
• Latitude: 40.3595° N
• Longitude: 91.4343° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Warsaw is part of the Warsaw Community Unit School District 316, which includes Warsaw High School and Warsaw Middle School. Major landmarks in the city include Fort Edwards, a historic fortification that dates back to the War of 1812 and played a role in the defense of the region. The Warsaw Riverfront Park offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, and visitors can explore the scenic river bluffs. The historic Nauvoo to Warsaw Trail, once used by Mormon pioneers, passes through the area, adding to the city’s cultural and historical significance.

La Harpe

Overview

La Harpe is a small town located in the eastern part of Hancock County, about 25 miles east of Carthage. It was founded in 1836 and named after the French explorer Bernard de la Harpe. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, and it became a local trading center for farmers in the surrounding area. Over the years, La Harpe has maintained its rural charm and strong agricultural roots, with a focus on grain production and small businesses that serve the local community.

City Details

• Area: 1.03 square miles
• Population: 1,235 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 61450
• Latitude: 40.5847° N
• Longitude: 90.9737° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

La Harpe is part of the Illini West High School District and La Harpe Community School District, with La Harpe Junior High School serving local students. Notable landmarks include the La Harpe City Park, a community gathering place that hosts events and recreational activities throughout the year. The town also features several historic homes and buildings that reflect its 19th-century origins. Nearby, the La Moine River offers fishing and outdoor activities. The town’s annual La Harpe Classic Car Show attracts visitors from across the region and is a highlight of the local events calendar.

Augusta

Overview

Augusta is a small village located in the northeastern part of Hancock County, approximately 20 miles from Carthage. Founded in 1832, Augusta was named after Augusta, Maine. The village developed as a farming community, with agriculture remaining a dominant force in its local economy. Over the years, Augusta has preserved its small-town atmosphere and has a close-knit community. Its rural setting offers residents a peaceful lifestyle while still being accessible to larger towns in the region.

City Details

• Area: 0.93 square miles
• Population: 587 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 62311
• Latitude: 40.2345° N
• Longitude: 90.9498° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Augusta is part of the Southeastern School District, with students attending Southeastern High School and Southeastern Elementary School. The village’s key landmarks include Augusta Community Park, which offers recreational facilities and hosts local events. The historic Augusta Opera House, built in the late 19th century, is a reminder of the village’s rich cultural past and is used for performances and gatherings. The nearby Golden Historic Site, a restored prairie homestead, offers insights into the region’s agricultural history and pioneer life.