National Register of Historic Places listings in Mercer County, Illinois facts for kids
Have you ever wondered about old buildings and places that are super important to history? In Mercer County, Illinois, there are many special spots that are officially recognized for their historical value. These places are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The National Register of Historic Places is like a special list kept by the United States government. It helps protect buildings, sites, and objects that are important to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. When a place is on this list, it means it's worth saving and celebrating for future generations.
In Mercer County, you can find 12 different properties and areas that are on this important list. There was once another place listed, but it was later removed. Let's explore some of these amazing historical treasures!
Exploring Mercer County's Historic Places
Mercer County is home to several fascinating places that tell stories from the past. Each one has its own unique history and reason for being on the National Register.
Historic Buildings in Mercer County
Many of the listed places are old buildings that show us how people lived and worked long ago.
The Commercial House in Keithsburg
The Commercial House is located in Keithsburg, Illinois. It's an old building found at 5th and Main Street. This house was added to the National Register on May 9, 1983. It's a great example of the kind of buildings that were important in Keithsburg's past.
Gideon Ives House in New Boston
The Gideon Ives House is a historic home in New Boston, Illinois. You can find it at 408 East Jefferson Street. This house became a protected site on November 8, 2000. It stands as a reminder of the people who helped build New Boston.
Mercer County Courthouse in Aledo
The Mercer County Courthouse is a very important building in Aledo, Illinois. It's located on Southeast 3rd Street, which is also Illinois Route 17. This grand courthouse was added to the National Register on June 17, 1982. It's where many important decisions for the county have been made over the years.
Mercer County Jail in Aledo
Not far from the courthouse in Aledo is the Mercer County Jail. It's at 309 South College Avenue. This old jail building was listed on July 25, 1997. It shows us what jails looked like in the past and how justice was handled.
Sherrard Banking Company
The Sherrard Banking Company building is in Sherrard, Illinois, at 314 Third Street. This building was recognized on February 16, 1996. It played a key role in the financial life of Sherrard many years ago.
James S. Thompson House
The James S. Thompson House is another historic home in New Boston, Illinois. It's located at 804 North Street. This house was added to the list on December 3, 2002. It's a significant part of New Boston's history.
Levi Willits House
Also in New Boston, Illinois, you'll find the Levi Willits House at 202 Main Street. This house became a historic listing on April 20, 1995. It's a beautiful example of older homes in the area.
Historic Districts and Areas
Sometimes, not just one building, but a whole group of buildings or an entire area is considered historically important. These are called historic districts.
Downtown Aledo Historic District
The Downtown Aledo Historic District covers several blocks in the heart of Aledo, Illinois. This area includes parts of North and South College Avenues, and Northwest and Southwest 2nd Avenues. It was added to the National Register on June 7, 2016. This district shows how the downtown area of Aledo grew and developed over time.
Keithsburg Historic District
The Keithsburg Historic District includes a large part of Keithsburg, Illinois. It's roughly bordered by Jackson, 5th, Washington, and 3rd Streets. This district was listed on May 8, 1986. It helps preserve the historic look and feel of Keithsburg.
Lock and Dam No. 17 Historic District
The Lock and Dam No. 17 Historic District is a unique site near New Boston, Illinois. It's located at 173 Lock and Dam Road. This important district was added to the list on March 10, 2004. Locks and dams are amazing engineering feats that help boats travel along rivers like the Mississippi.
Mercer County Fairgrounds
The Mercer County Fairgrounds is another special historic district in Aledo, Illinois. It's located on 12th Avenue Southwest, about half a mile south of Illinois Route 17. The fairgrounds were listed on May 2, 1997. Fairs have been a big part of community life for a long time, and these fairgrounds hold many memories.
Former Listing
Sometimes, a property might be removed from the National Register if it's no longer there or has changed too much.
United Presbyterian Church (Keithsburg, Illinois)
The United Presbyterian Church in Keithsburg, Illinois, was once listed on the National Register. It was located at Main and 8th Streets and was added on November 7, 1980. However, it was later removed from the list on July 17, 1984.
