Explore the ghost towns of Illinois and step into the shadows of the past. These deserted communities, which were before bustling with activity and vitality, now serve as mute reminders of the past.
Come along as we explore the backstories of five such towns, each resonating with tales of its former grandeur and ghostly legends that lurk amid its bleak streets.
These ghost towns give a hauntingly beautiful view into Illinois’ rich and diverse legacy, from the whispers of old Native American mounds to the peaceful ruins of once-thriving settlements. Here, we list five Illinois ghost towns, each having an own history and relics from a bygone era.
Appleton
Appleton used to be the county seat of Jackson County. The original town site is currently vacant, with only several streets remaining that once served the town.
Renowned for its history in grain and stock exporting, Appleton was also famous for its numerous historical sites and deserted buildings, rumored to be haunted by the tales of former residents.
Following the courthouse fire in 1843, the town was deserted, leaving behind a collection of historical sites and abandoned buildings that reverberate with the narratives of its past inhabitants.
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Cayuga
Cayuga, a small unincorporated community, was never sizeable and is currently characterized by an empty grain elevator and depot along the Union Pacific. The most notable remnants include these abandoned structures, serving as silent reminders of a town left behind by progress.
At its height, the town’s population reached 160 but declined with the development of the international highway system, ultimately leading to its abandonment. Some still recall ghost stories from the town’s prosperous days.
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Griggsville Landing
Griggsville Landing was a riverboat stop and ferry point across the Illinois River in the early nineteenth century. It was also known as Phillips Landing or Phillips Ferry.
A standing lime kiln from about 1850 stands as a mute reminder of the town’s past. It was once home to a boat yard, a grist mill, and a hotel before being eventually abandoned.
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Kincaid Mounds
A prehistoric Native American site from the Mississippian culture period is known as the Kincaid Mounds. The mounds represent the remains of a sophisticated society that before the arrival of European settlers, while not being a typical ghost town.
The location is supposed to be haunted by the ghosts of its former occupants and provides a unique viewpoint on the area’s prehistoric past.
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Benjaminville
Benjaminville, a Quaker farming community founded in the 1850s, was abandoned when the anticipated Lake Erie Railroad crossed through it. The Benjaminville Friends Meeting House is the sole building still standing.The town’s eerie past is connected to the Quaker community, which was previously prosperous but saw a sharp downturn following the railroad’s decision.
Another famous ghost town with preservation efforts made to preserve its history is Benjaminville. Explore the neighborhood and consider the lives that once occupied these now-quiet and serene locations.
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To Conclude
These deserted towns aren’t just spots on a map; they’re rich with stories where one can almost catch the whispers of bygone days.
They stand as a testament to the fleeting nature of human settlements and the enduring impact of history. For those captivated by the mystique of abandoned places, Illinois’ ghost towns provide a wealth of opportunities for exploration and discovery.
If you’re enchanted by these remnants of the past and eager to delve deeper, Illinois presents a captivating history waiting to be unveiled. Each ghost town holds its unique narrative, contributing to the intricate tapestry of the state’s diverse heritage. So, pack your curiosity and set off on a journey through time in the Land of Lincoln.