Cities and Towns in Mercer County, Illinois
Founded in 1825, Mercer County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Mercer County was formed from Schuyler County. The city of Aledo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 131, Mercer County has a population of 15,582 and area of 561 square miles (1,453 km²).
List of all cities in Mercer County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Aledo, IL | 61231 | 309 |
| Alexis, IL | 61412 | 309 |
| Boden, IL | 61281 | 309 |
| Cable, IL | 61281 | 309 |
| Eliza, IL | 61272 | 309 |
| Hamlet, IL | 61231 | 309 |
| Joy, IL | 61260 | 309 |
| Keithsburg, IL | 61442 | 309 |
| Matherville, IL | 61263 | 309 |
| Mercer, IL | 61231 | 309 |
| New Boston, IL | 61272 | 309 |
| New Windsor, IL | 61465 | 309 |
| North Henderson, IL | 61466 | 309 |
| Ohio Grove, IL | 61231 | 309 |
| Old Gilchrist, IL | 61231 | 309 |
| Preemption, IL | 61276 | 309 |
| Richland Grove, IL | 61281 | 309 |
| Seaton, IL | 61476 | 309 |
| Shale City, IL | 61231 | 309 |
| Shanghai City, IL | 61412 | 309 |
| Sherrard, IL | 61281 | 309 |
| Sunbeam, IL | 61231 | 309 |
| Viola, IL | 61486 | 309 |
| Wanlock, IL | 61231 | 309 |
Major Cities and Towns in Mercer County, Illinois
Aledo, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.43 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,640 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 61231
- Latitude: 41.2003° N
- Longitude: 90.7499° W
Location and History
Aledo is the county seat of Mercer County, located in the northwestern part of Illinois, about 35 miles south of the Quad Cities. Aledo was founded in 1855 and became the county seat due to its central location within the county. Its growth was spurred by the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, making it an agricultural hub in the region. The town developed into a bustling community that supported the surrounding rural population with goods, services, and cultural activities. Aledo is known for its annual Rhubarb Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage and attracts visitors from across the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Aledo is served by Mercer County School District, with Mercer County High School and Mercer County Intermediate School as the main educational institutions. Landmarks in Aledo include the Mercer County Courthouse, a beautiful historic building that serves as the centerpiece of the downtown area. The town is also home to Central Park, which hosts many community events, including the Rhubarb Festival and the Aledo Antique Days. The Mercer County Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s rich past, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that highlight the region’s agricultural and industrial history.
Keithsburg, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.37 square miles
- Population: Approximately 561 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 61442
- Latitude: 41.1045° N
- Longitude: 90.9421° W
Location and History
Keithsburg is located along the Mississippi River in southwestern Mercer County. Established in 1837, the town was initially envisioned as a river port, benefiting from its prime location on the banks of the Mississippi. The town was named after Robert Keith, an early settler who played a key role in its development. Keithsburg thrived during the steamboat era, with its port serving as a trading hub for agricultural products. However, with the decline of river trade in the late 19th century and the rise of railroads, the town’s prominence diminished. Today, Keithsburg is a quiet riverfront community with a deep connection to its past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Keithsburg is part of the Mercer County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Aledo. The town’s most prominent landmark is the Keithsburg Riverside Campground, which offers scenic views of the Mississippi River and opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. Another significant site is the historic Keithsburg Methodist Church, a reminder of the town’s rich religious heritage. Each summer, the Keithsburg Riverfront Days festival brings the community together for a celebration that includes live music, food, and fireworks, showcasing the town’s small-town charm and riverfront culture.
New Boston, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: Approximately 630 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 61272
- Latitude: 41.1737° N
- Longitude: 90.9907° W
Location and History
New Boston is located on the banks of the Mississippi River, in the southwestern corner of Mercer County. The town was founded in 1834 and quickly became a significant river port. Its location along the Mississippi made it a key shipping point for agricultural products, including grain and livestock. Like many river towns, New Boston’s economy was heavily reliant on river trade, which declined with the advent of railroads and other forms of transportation. The town’s history is tied to the river, with many of its early settlers working in shipping, fishing, and farming. Today, New Boston remains a small but picturesque community with a strong connection to the Mississippi.
Major Schools and Landmarks
New Boston is part of the Mercer County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Aledo. The town’s most prominent landmark is the New Boston Riverfront Park, which offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Each summer, the New Boston Fish Fry and Festival celebrates the town’s connection to the river, attracting visitors from the surrounding region. Another significant site is the historic New Boston Cemetery, where many of the town’s early settlers are buried, providing a link to the town’s rich history.
Viola, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.84 square miles
- Population: Approximately 861 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 61486
- Latitude: 41.2020° N
- Longitude: 90.5846° W
Location and History
Viola is located in the northeastern part of Mercer County, near the border with Rock Island County. The town was established in 1856 and quickly developed as a small agricultural community. Viola’s growth was tied to the construction of the railroad, which provided local farmers with access to larger markets. The town has maintained its rural character, with agriculture remaining the primary economic driver. Viola’s close-knit community and quiet, small-town atmosphere make it a peaceful place to live, with a history deeply connected to the agricultural heritage of Mercer County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Viola is part of the Sherrard Community Unit School District 200, with students attending schools in nearby Sherrard. The town’s most notable landmark is the Viola Public Library, which serves as a gathering place for the community and offers various programs and services. Viola also hosts the annual Viola Threshers Reunion, a celebration of the town’s agricultural roots, featuring antique farm equipment, tractor pulls, and demonstrations of traditional farming techniques. The nearby Aledo-viola-Greene area offers residents and visitors access to parks and recreational facilities, enhancing Viola’s appeal as a rural community with a strong sense of heritage.
Joy, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population: Approximately 375 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 61260
- Latitude: 41.1960° N
- Longitude: 90.8807° W
Location and History
Joy is a small village located in western Mercer County, near the Henderson County border. The town was founded in 1868 and named after local landowner J. W. Joy. Originally a farming community, Joy grew slowly but steadily, with agriculture as the backbone of its economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped the town thrive by providing a means for local farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Joy has remained a small, rural village with a strong connection to the surrounding farmland.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Joy is part of the Mercer County School District, with students attending schools in Aledo. The town’s most notable landmark is the Joy Community Center, which serves as a hub for local events and gatherings. Joy also hosts an annual Fourth of July celebration, featuring a parade, fireworks, and community festivities. Nearby, the Henderson Creek Wildlife Area offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and birdwatching, attracting outdoor enthusiasts to the region. Joy’s small size and rural charm make it a peaceful and close-knit community with deep agricultural roots.
