Cities and Towns in Marshall County, Illinois
Founded in 1839, Marshall County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Marshall County was formed from Putnam County. The city of Lacon is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, Marshall County has a population of 11,663 and area of 386 square miles (1,000 km²).
List of all cities in Marshall County, IL alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Bell Plain, IL | 61541 | 309 |
Camp Grove, IL | 61424 | 309 |
East Wenona, IL | 61377 | 815/779 |
Evans, IL | 61377 | 815/779 |
Garfield, IL | 61377 | 815/779 |
Henry, IL | 61537 | 309 |
Hopewell, IL | 61565 | 309 |
Hopewell Estates, IL | 61565 | 309 |
La Rose, IL | 61541 | 309 |
Lacon, IL | 61540 | 309 |
Leeds, IL | 61377 | 815/779 |
Pattonsburg, IL | 61369 | 815/779 |
Saratoga Center, IL | 61537 | 309 |
Sparland, IL | 61565 | 309 |
Toluca, IL | 61369 | 815/779 |
Varna, IL | 61375 | 309 |
Washburn, IL | 61570 | 309 |
Wenona, IL | 61377 | 815/779 |
Wilbern, IL | 61570 | 309 |
Major Cities and Towns in Marshall County, Illinois
Lacon
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.65 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,800
- ZIP Codes: 61540
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.0236° N, 89.4109° W
Location and History
Lacon is the county seat of Marshall County, located on the east bank of the Illinois River. It was established in 1831 and grew significantly as a river port and a stop for trade along the Illinois River. Lacon’s early economy relied on agriculture, transportation, and river-based commerce, which made it a key hub for grain and livestock distribution in the 19th century. Over time, the construction of bridges and highways shifted the town’s role to more of a regional administrative and agricultural center. Lacon is a quiet, historically preserved town with a rich heritage tied to its riverfront and agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lacon is served by the Midland School District, including Midland Elementary and Midland High School, which provide education for the surrounding areas. One of the city’s most notable landmarks is the Lacon Bridge, which spans the Illinois River, offering picturesque views of the waterway. The Marshall County Courthouse, built in 1853, stands as a historical centerpiece, reflecting the town’s role in regional governance. Additionally, Lacon has several recreational parks along the river that are popular for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Henry
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.47 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500
- ZIP Codes: 61537
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.1117° N, 89.3584° W
Location and History
Henry is located along the Illinois River, just a few miles southwest of Lacon. Founded in 1834, the town was named after General James D. Henry, a prominent military figure in the Black Hawk War. Henry became a bustling river town due to its strategic location, and it quickly evolved into a center for commerce and transportation in the mid-19th century. The construction of a railway and bridges in the late 1800s boosted its economy, allowing the export of local agricultural products like grain and livestock. Today, Henry remains an important town within Marshall County, retaining much of its small-town charm and historical significance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The town is served by the Henry-Senachwine School District, which includes Henry-Senachwine Elementary School and Henry-Senachwine High School. A major landmark in the area is the Henry Bridge, a truss bridge that connects Henry to neighboring communities across the Illinois River. Additionally, Henry hosts several historic buildings, including the historic Henry Library and the old Henry Opera House. The town also features unique parks such as Central Park, a venue for community events and fairs, and scenic riverfront locations for outdoor activities.
Toluca
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.69 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400
- ZIP Codes: 61369
- Latitude/Longitude: 40.9928° N, 89.1345° W
Location and History
Toluca is located in the southeastern part of Marshall County, and it has a deep history connected to coal mining. It was founded in the late 19th century during the coal boom, with mines attracting workers from all over the world, particularly Europe. Many immigrants settled in Toluca, contributing to the town’s growth and cultural diversity. The mines operated until the early 20th century, after which the town transitioned into an agricultural center. Despite its mining roots, Toluca has maintained a small population and a tight-knit community, focused on agriculture and local businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Toluca is served by Fieldcrest Community Unit School District, with Fieldcrest High School located in nearby Minonk. One of Toluca’s most significant landmarks is the towering St. Ann’s Church, a nod to the town’s strong Catholic heritage rooted in its immigrant population. The town is also known for the Toluca Coal Mine Park, which commemorates the area’s mining history with preserved artifacts and educational displays. Annual events like the Toluca Labor Day Picnic further celebrate the town’s heritage and bring the community together.
Varna
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.39 square miles
- Population: Approximately 380
- ZIP Codes: 61375
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.0381° N, 89.2268° W
Location and History
Varna is a small village located in the southeastern part of Marshall County, close to the Illinois River and near the Lake Wildwood recreational area. It was founded in the mid-1800s, primarily as an agricultural community. While it never became a large town, Varna has played a steady role in the county’s farming landscape. Over the years, the town has seen slow but steady growth, and it remains a quiet village known for its rural charm and proximity to natural recreational areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Varna is also served by the Midland School District, sharing facilities with nearby towns like Lacon and Sparland. A key feature of the village is its close proximity to Lake Wildwood, a private, gated community known for its recreational amenities, including fishing, boating, and camping. This proximity makes Varna a popular place for people looking to enjoy outdoor activities while remaining close to home. Additionally, Varna hosts the annual Harvest Festival, celebrating its agricultural roots and bringing together residents for a day of food, music, and games.
Sparland
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.77 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- ZIP Codes: 61565
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.0361° N, 89.4315° W
Location and History
Sparland is situated along the Illinois River, just across from Lacon. Originally settled in the early 19th century, the village became a modest industrial town with sawmills and brickyards that thrived due to its riverside location. However, it has remained relatively small compared to neighboring towns like Lacon. Sparland’s economy has historically relied on agriculture and local industries, but in recent years it has developed a reputation as a residential area for people seeking a quieter lifestyle near the river.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sparland shares its school district with Lacon, part of the Midland School District. The village’s most well-known landmark is the Sparland Ferry, which operated for many years as a way to cross the Illinois River before the construction of bridges. Today, the village enjoys access to natural beauty with nearby parks and riverfront areas, providing fishing, boating, and recreational opportunities. Sparland is also close to the Wildlife Prairie Park, offering visitors access to native Illinois wildlife and ecosystems.