Countryaah.com

Cities and Towns in Henry County, Illinois

by · Published · Updated

Founded in 1825, Henry County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Henry County was formed from Fulton County. The city of Cambridge is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Henry County has a population of 48,907 and area of 822 square miles (2,129 km²).

List of all cities in Henry County, IL alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Alba, IL 61235 309
Alpha, IL 61413 309
Andover, IL 61233 309
Annawan, IL 61234 309
61258 815/779
Atkinson, IL 61235 309
Bishop Hill, IL 61419 309
Cambridge, IL 61238 309
Cleveland, IL 61241 309
Colona, IL 61241 309
Cornwall, IL 61235 309
Galva, IL 61434 309
Geneseo, IL 61254 309
Green Rock, IL 61241 309
Hanna, IL 61254 309
Hooppole, IL 61258 815/779
Kewanee, IL 61443 309
Lynn, IL 61262 309
Lynn Center, IL 61262 309
Munson, IL 61238 309
Nekoma, IL 61490 309
Opheim, IL 61468 309
61468 309
Orion, IL 61273 309
Osco, IL 61274 309
Sunny Hill, IL 61273 309
Sunny Hill Estates, IL 61273 309
Swedona, IL 61262 309
Ulah, IL 61238 309
Warner, IL 61273 309
Weller, IL 61238 309
Western, IL 61273 309
Woodhull, IL 61490 309

Major Cities and Towns in Henry County, Illinois

Kewanee

Overview

Kewanee, known as the “Hog Capital of the World,” is the largest city in Henry County, located in the north-central part of Illinois. Founded in 1854 as a railroad town, Kewanee grew rapidly due to its strategic location along the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad. The city’s early economy was driven by manufacturing, agriculture, and livestock trading, particularly hog farming, which earned it its nickname. Today, Kewanee maintains its industrial base while also focusing on agriculture and community development.

City Details

  • Area: 6.72 square miles
  • Population: 12,916 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 61443
  • Latitude: 41.2439° N
  • Longitude: 89.9243° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kewanee is served by the Kewanee Community Unit School District 229, which includes Kewanee High School, Central Junior High School, and Irving Elementary School. Landmarks in Kewanee include the historic Kewanee Hotel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Northeast Park, which hosts the annual Hog Days Festival. The city is also home to the Kewanee Historical Society Museum, showcasing artifacts from the city’s history. Additionally, Francis Park and the Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area offer outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.

Geneseo

Overview

Geneseo, located in the northern part of Henry County, is a picturesque town with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1836 by settlers from Geneseo, New York. The town was originally established as a utopian community based on strong religious and moral values. Over time, Geneseo evolved into a thriving agricultural and commercial center, with its charming Victorian-style downtown and well-preserved historical buildings. Its location along Interstate 80 makes it easily accessible to larger cities like the Quad Cities and Chicago.

City Details

  • Area: 4.38 square miles
  • Population: 6,539 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 61254
  • Latitude: 41.4528° N
  • Longitude: 90.1549° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Geneseo is served by the Geneseo Community Unit School District 228, which includes Geneseo High School, Geneseo Middle School, and Millikin Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Geneseo Historical Museum, which offers insights into the town’s 19th-century roots, and Richmond Hill Park, a popular venue for community events and outdoor activities. The Victorian architecture in downtown Geneseo is a key feature, drawing visitors to its unique shops and restaurants. The annual Geneseo Christmas Walk is a beloved tradition, attracting visitors to experience the holiday season in a historic setting.

Colona

Overview

Colona is a small city in the northwestern part of Henry County, formed in 1997 through the consolidation of the villages of Green Rock and Colona. The city is located along the Rock River and is bordered by the Hennepin Canal, offering residents and visitors scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities. Colona’s proximity to the Quad Cities makes it an attractive residential area for commuters, while its quiet neighborhoods and rural surroundings offer a peaceful lifestyle.

City Details

  • Area: 4.48 square miles
  • Population: 5,099 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 61241
  • Latitude: 41.4678° N
  • Longitude: 90.3468° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Colona is served by the Colona School District 190, which includes Colona Grade School. The town’s major landmarks include the Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, which offers walking, biking, and fishing opportunities along the canal, and Rock River, which is popular for boating and other water activities. Colona also features Green Rock Memorial Park, a recreational area with sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The annual Colona Memorial Day Parade and the Hennepin Hundred Ultramarathon bring the community together for celebrations and athletic events.

Cambridge

Overview

Cambridge is the county seat of Henry County, located in the central part of the county. The town was established in 1843 and named after Cambridge, Massachusetts, reflecting the settlers’ desire to create a community based on education and culture. Cambridge has long served as the administrative center of the county, with a strong agricultural economy supporting the surrounding rural areas. The town has retained its historic charm, with many buildings from the 19th century still in use.

City Details

  • Area: 1.21 square miles
  • Population: 2,040 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 61238
  • Latitude: 41.3039° N
  • Longitude: 90.1915° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cambridge is served by the Cambridge Community Unit School District 227, which includes Cambridge High School and Cambridge Junior High School. The town’s landmarks include the Henry County Courthouse, an impressive example of 19th-century architecture, and the Cambridge Main Street Historic District, which features a variety of well-preserved buildings from the town’s early days. Cambridge’s annual Fall Festival and the Henry County Fair, held at the local fairgrounds, are major events that draw residents and visitors alike.

Orion

Overview

Orion, located in the northeastern part of Henry County, was founded in 1853 as a stop along the Rock Island Railroad. Originally known as Western Town, Orion grew as a result of its position on the rail line, serving as a local agricultural hub. The town was renamed Orion in 1867 and has since developed into a small but vibrant community with strong ties to farming and local industry. Orion is conveniently located near Interstate 74, making it easily accessible to the nearby Quad Cities area.

City Details

  • Area: 1.29 square miles
  • Population: 1,818 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 61273
  • Latitude: 41.3523° N
  • Longitude: 90.3790° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Orion is served by the Orion Community Unit School District 223, which includes Orion High School and C.R. Hanna Elementary School. Notable landmarks in Orion include Love Park, which features walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas, and the historic Orion Opera House, a restored building that now hosts community events. The town’s annual Orion Fall Festival is a highlight of the year, offering parades, games, and entertainment for residents and visitors. Orion’s strong community spirit and picturesque setting make it an attractive place for families.

Galva

Overview

Galva, located in the southeastern part of Henry County, was founded in 1854 by Swedish immigrants who named the town after Gävle, a city in Sweden. The town grew rapidly due to the arrival of the railroad, which made it a key transportation hub for agricultural products, particularly grain. Galva has maintained its strong agricultural base while also becoming a community known for its cultural events and festivals. The town is easily accessible via U.S. Route 34, making it a central point for surrounding rural areas.

City Details

  • Area: 2.51 square miles
  • Population: 2,488 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 61434
  • Latitude: 41.1686° N
  • Longitude: 90.0423° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Galva is served by the Galva Community Unit School District 224, which includes Galva High School and Galva Junior-Senior High School. Major landmarks include Wiley Park, which hosts the annual Galva Freedom Fest, a Fourth of July celebration featuring fireworks, parades, and live music. The town also features the Galva Historical Society Museum, which showcases artifacts from the town’s early settlers and its railroad history. Galva Arts Council, housed in a historic downtown building, supports local artists and hosts cultural events throughout the year.

Annawan

Overview

Annawan, located in the northeastern part of Henry County, was established in 1853 as a station on the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad. The town grew quickly as a result of its strategic location along the railroad, serving as a center for agricultural trade. Annawan remains a close-knit rural community, with a focus on farming and small businesses. Its convenient location along Interstate 80 and U.S. Route 6 makes it an attractive place for both residents and businesses.

City Details

  • Area: 1.17 square miles
  • Population: 878 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 61234
  • Latitude: 41.4009° N
  • Longitude: 89.9034° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Annawan is part of the Annawan Community Unit School District 226, which includes Annawan High School and Annawan Grade School. Notable landmarks include Annawan Canal Park, which offers hiking and fishing along the historic Hennepin Canal, and the Bishop Hill State Historic Site, located nearby, which preserves the history of Swedish immigrants who settled in the region. Annawan’s annual Harvest Days Festival is a major community event that celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, music, and family-friendly activities.

Read more: