Carthage Is:
A rural city - the county seat of Hancock County - a business center
- a microcosm of life in West-Central Illinois. True, Carthage is
all of these, but this description does not begin to portray the
charm of the city - its turn of the century architecture, its beautiful
old trees, its historical ambiance, its friendly residents.
Settled in 1831, Carthage became the county seat in 1833, thus
beginning its long history as a center for business, political activity,
and the farming community.
As part of its history, a compaign speech by Abraham Lincoln is
commemorated, but perhaps the most famous historical event to ever
occur was the mob slaying of the Mormon founder, Joseph Smith, at
the Old Carthage Jail in 1844. The Old Jail, now owned by the Mormon
Church, has been restored and is open for tours year round.
Considered one of the most handsome in the State of Illinois,
the Hancock County Courthouse in Carthage, dedicated in 1908, is
definitely the centerpiece of the city. In its picturesque setting,
surrounded by stately trees, the courthouse is the center of the
town square. The courthouse and the buildings facing the square
have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its
beautiful interior includes six marble staircases intricately carved,
painted and molded walls, striking stained diamond-leaded glass,
and a large rotunda opening into a huge domed roof. In addition
to its governmental use, the courthouse has been the stage for arts
events and dramatic performances. The courthouse lawn has also become
the focal point for community activities such as: The Christmas
Open House, Appreciation Days, and the Farmers' Market.
