Population (2010) 2,819 Introduction Once a bustling port at the confluence of two of the biggest rivers in the US, Cairo (pronounced CARE-o) today is a shell of its former self. The reasons for its shocking decline aren’t too hard to figure out. History The
The most southern portion of Illinois has been known as Little Egypt at least since the 1820s, and maybe earlier. Many early European settlers viewed the Mississippi River as America’s Nile, which, coupled with evidence that the area was inhabited by an ancient civilization (earthen mounds that often looked a lot like pyramids) probably
Population (2010) 436 Introduction One of the communities in southern Illinois' Little Egypt, Thebes is a small river town that grew up next to one of the most treacherous parts of the river to navigate. History A small cluster of houses that had initially been known
Population (2010) 605 Introduction Located near a long-time river landmark, Grand Tower is a small community that was once a bigger deal than you might think. History Named for the big rock on the other side on the Mississippi (Tower Rock), the site drew its
Population (2010) N/A Introduction Fort de Chartres has served as a tourist attraction longer than it did as a military fort, but it's a fun place to visit for a taste of life during the French colonial period, especially if you can visit during one of the festivals that
Population (2010) 603 Introduction Prairie du Rocher is another of the old French colonial settlements in the American Bottom. Today, it is also a popular stop for day-trippers and bikers (motorized and not) out for a ride on warm weekend days. History Founded in 1722
