McLean County Facts for Kids

McLean County is a name shared by three different counties in the United States. This means there are three separate places, each called McLean County, but located in different states: Illinois, Kentucky, and North Dakota.

What is a County?
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What is a County?

A county is a type of local government area within a state. Think of it like a smaller division of a state, often with its own government offices and services. Many counties in the U.S. are named after important people, places, or events from history. The three McLean Counties are all believed to be named after John McLean, a famous American lawyer and politician who lived in the early 1800s. He served as a U.S. Senator and a Supreme Court Justice.

McLean County, Illinois

McLean County, Illinois, is the largest county in Illinois by land area. It is located in the central part of the state. The county seat, which is like its main town or capital, is Bloomington. This area is known for its rich farmland and strong agricultural history.

Fun Facts About McLean County, Illinois

The county was created in 1830.
It is named after John McLean, who was a U.S. Senator from Illinois.
Bloomington is home to Illinois State University, a large public university.
The area has a mix of farming communities and growing cities.

McLean County, Kentucky

McLean County, Kentucky, is located in the western part of Kentucky. Its county seat is a town called Calhoun. This county is known for its beautiful natural areas and its connection to the Green River, which flows through it.

What Makes McLean County, Kentucky Special?

This county was formed in 1829.
It was also named in honor of John McLean, who was a U.S. Senator from Illinois and later a Supreme Court Justice.
The Green River is an important waterway for the county, used for transportation and recreation.
Agriculture, especially growing corn and soybeans, is a big part of the local economy.

McLean County, North Dakota

McLean County, North Dakota, is found in the central part of North Dakota. The county seat here is Washburn. This county is known for its wide-open spaces, beautiful lakes, and its role in energy production.

Exploring McLean County, North Dakota

McLean County, North Dakota, was established in 1883.
Like the others, it is named after John McLean.
A large part of Lake Sakakawea, a huge reservoir on the Missouri River, is located within McLean County. This lake is popular for fishing and boating.
The county plays a role in North Dakota's energy industry, including coal mining and power generation.

McLean County facts for kids

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