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Jefferson County Historical Village: A Step Back in Time

Step back into 19th-century Illinois at Jefferson County Historical Village: Explore authentic buildings and experience pioneer life.

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Experience life in 1800s Illinois at the Jefferson County Historical Village in Mt. Vernon. Explore authentic log cabins, a one-room schoolhouse, a general store, and more, with interactive exhibits that bring the past to life. Open weekends May to October, it's an immersive and educational experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Jefferson County Historical Village

Local tips

  • Check the official website or call ahead for special events and exhibits during your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking and exploring various buildings throughout the village.
  • Bring a camera to capture the picturesque historical architecture and settings.
  • Consider visiting on a weekend for a more lively experience, as they often host special events.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Jefferson County Historical Village is located at 1411 N 27th St, Mt Vernon, IL 62864. From I-57 or I-64, take the exit for IL-15 West towards Mt. Vernon. Continue on IL-15 W, then take the exit for N 27th St. Merge onto N 27th St, and the village will be on your right. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Jefferson County Historical Village via public transportation, take a bus to Mt. Vernon. From the bus station, a taxi or rideshare service is required to reach the village at 1411 N 27th St. Taxi/Rideshare cost is approximately $10 - $15.

  • Walking

    If you are near the intersection of IL-15 and N 27th St in Mt. Vernon, the Jefferson County Historical Village is located approximately 1 mile north on N 27th St. Follow N 27th St north; the village will be on your right. There are no sidewalks for a portion of the walk.

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Discover more about Jefferson County Historical Village

The Jefferson County Historical Village, located on the northwestern edge of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, offers an immersive glimpse into 19th-century life. Envisioned in 1990, this outdoor museum has grown to feature a collection of relocated and recreated buildings that represent life in Jefferson County during the 1800s. The village consists of 19 buildings, including residential cabins, a print shop, a blacksmith shop, and a general store, as well as trails, a cemetery, and an indoor museum. Some buildings, like the medical building, are constructed from original cabins donated by local families. The Mt. Olive Church, built in 1873, was moved to the village from Bluford, Illinois, in 1992 and still hosts weddings. Visitors can also explore a calaboose (log cabin jail) dating back to circa 1820 and a one-room schoolhouse. The Jefferson County Historical Society maintains a library with books of interest and files concerning Jefferson County history. Rotating exhibits in the museum display furniture, clothing and artifacts depicting the lifestyle and businesses of the past. Knowledgeable docents are available to answer questions and provide assistance. The village provides an educational experience for visitors to understand the history of the area.

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