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History of Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA
Journey back in time to Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Mount Vernon
Founded in 1819, it was initially to be named Mount Pleasant but, after intense debate, was named instead for George Washington’s home (see Mount Vernon) in Virginia. The Illinois Supreme Court was located in Mount Vernon (1856–96), and Abraham Lincoln argued and won a tax case there in 1859.
Sourcebritannica.com
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MAP
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VINTAGE MOUNT VERNON
Mount Vernon Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA
Postcard
U.S. Post Office
Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA
Postcard
First Presbyterian Church
Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA
Postcard
![Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fPlaces%2fDetails%2f1929&media=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fContent%2fancestorimages%2fmount_vernon_il_1.jpg&description=Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA - Hotel Emmerson
"...Perhaps the most famous and elegant of any of Mt. Vernon's old hotels was the Hotel Emmerson. Opened in 1926 as the New Mt. Vernon Hotel, the building quickly became a Mt. Vernon Landmark. The hotel was five stories high and had 150 rooms; rates started at $1.75. Many Mt. Vernon residents can remember the "human fly" who climbed the northwest corner of the hotel soon after its opening. The hotel was considered fire-proof because there were no wooden floors or walls in its construction. The Emmerson, famous for its fine dining and meeting facilities, was used frequently by community clubs such as the Car Shop Women. Between 1929..." www.lib.niu.edu){kind=small}
Hotel Emmerson
"...Perhaps the most famous and elegant of any of Mt. Vernon's old hotels was the Hotel Emmerson. Opened in 1926 as the New Mt. Vernon Hotel, the building quickly became a Mt. Vernon Landmark. The hotel was five stories high and had 150 rooms; rates started at $1.75. Many Mt. Vernon residents can remember the "human fly" who climbed the northwest corner of the hotel soon after its opening. The hotel was considered fire-proof because there were no wooden floors or walls in its construction. The Emmerson, famous for its fine dining and meeting facilities, was used frequently by community clubs such as the Car Shop Women. Between 1929..." www.lib.niu.edu
"...Perhaps the most famous and elegant of any of Mt. Vernon's old hotels was the Hotel Emmerson. Opened in 1926 as the New Mt. Vernon Hotel, the building quickly became a Mt. Vernon Landmark. The hotel was five stories high and had 150 rooms; rates started at $1.75. Many Mt. Vernon residents can remember the "human fly" who climbed the northwest corner of the hotel soon after its opening. The hotel was considered fire-proof because there were no wooden floors or walls in its construction. The Emmerson, famous for its fine dining and meeting facilities, was used frequently by community clubs such as the Car Shop Women. Between 1929..." www.lib.niu.edu
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to MOUNT VERNON
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LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Mount Vernon: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Mount Vernon through the years.
1817 - Mount Vernon Founded
Mt. Vernon was founded in 1817 by Zadok Casey, who was elected to the State Senate in 1822 and was elected Lieutenant Governor in 1833. He served in the U.S. Congress between 1833 and 1843. The town was named for George Washington's plantation, Mount Vernon, which was named for Edward Vernon, a British naval hero.
1854 - Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, a post-village, capital of Jefferson county, Illinois, 135 miles S. S. E. from Springfield. It contains a court house, three or more churches, and several stores.
February 19, 1888 - A tornado struck Mount Vernon IL. The tornado killed sixteen persons along its 62 mile path.
1895 - Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, a post-village, capital of Jefferson co., Ill., on the St. Louis & Southeastern Railroad, 77 miles E.S.E. of St. Louis, Mo., and about 20 miles S.E. of Centralia. It contains a court-house, 2 banks, 4 churches, 2 newspaper offices, 2 steam flour-mills, a woollen-mill, a saw mill, and some railroad machine-shops. Pop. (1890) 3233.
1906
Mount Vernon, a banking city, capital of Jefferson co., Ill., on the Louisville and Nashville, the Wabash and other railroads, 77 miles SE. of St. Louis, Mo. It has manufactures of railroad-cars, axe-handles, four, and lumber. Pop. in 1900, 5216.
Here's a list of the best places to go and things to do in Mount Vernon:
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts:
A haven for art lovers, Cedarhurst Center for the Arts features a stunning sculpture park and rotating exhibitions. It's a great place to appreciate contemporary and classical art.
Veterans Memorial Park:
Pay your respects and take a peaceful stroll through Veterans Memorial Park. The park honors the sacrifices of military veterans and provides a serene setting for reflection.
Jefferson County Historical Village:
History buffs will love exploring the Jefferson County Historical Village. This living history museum consists of numerous historic buildings, including a log cabin, schoolhouse, and blacksmith shop.
Rend Lake:
Nature enthusiasts can head to Rend Lake for outdoor activities. Fishing, boating, and hiking are popular here. The lake also has beautiful picnic spots, making it a great place for a family day out.
King City Square Shopping Center:
If you're in the mood for shopping, King City Square is the place to be. With...
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A haven for art lovers, Cedarhurst Center for the Arts features a stunning sculpture park and rotating exhibitions. It's a great place to appreciate contemporary and classical art.
Veterans Memorial Park:
Pay your respects and take a peaceful stroll through Veterans Memorial Park. The park honors the sacrifices of military veterans and provides a serene setting for reflection.
Jefferson County Historical Village:
History buffs will love exploring the Jefferson County Historical Village. This living history museum consists of numerous historic buildings, including a log cabin, schoolhouse, and blacksmith shop.
Rend Lake:
Nature enthusiasts can head to Rend Lake for outdoor activities. Fishing, boating, and hiking are popular here. The lake also has beautiful picnic spots, making it a great place for a family day out.
King City Square Shopping Center:
If you're in the mood for shopping, King City Square is the place to be. With...
GENEALOGY IN MOUNT VERNON
Discover YOUR Roots: Mount Vernon Ancestry
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BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA
We currently have information about 12 ancestors who were born or died in Mount Vernon.
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Mount Vernon, Illinois, USA
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Updated: 9/29/2023 8:40:26 AM
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