Knoxville, Illinois, originally called Henderson, was established on January 15, 1831. With more than 175 years of history, it is the oldest town in Knox County and one of the ten oldest communities in Illinois. Much of Knoxville’s early heritage is still visible today, with numerous homes and buildings from the 1840s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Among the notable historic structures is the first water pump house, built in 1897, which remarkably remains in operation today. Another important landmark is the John G. Sanburn Log Cabin. Sanburn was a key figure in Knoxville’s early development, founding the town’s first store, which also served as the post offic, and holding several roles including county clerk, circuit clerk, probate judge, shopkeeper, and postmaster.

Visitors can explore many sites that reflect Knoxville’s early history, including the Old Knox County Jail, the Old Courthouse, Walnut Grove Farm, and the Wolf Covered Bridge, all of which offer a glimpse into life in the region during the 19th century.

Knoxville Public Library
The Knoxville Public Library offers residents and visitors a chance to explore the town’s past through collections of historic photographs and local archives. The library also hosts community events and activities throughout the year. Outside the building, a “Little Sharing Library” allows residents to exchange books and encourage a love of reading within the community.

Knox County Scenic Drive
The Knox County Scenic Drive is a popular self-guided tour that highlights the history and landscapes of Knoxville and surrounding communities. The approximately two-hour drive includes eight stops: downtown Knoxville, the Knox County Fairgrounds, Walnut Grove Farm, Elmwood, Maquon, Orange Chapel, the Wolf Covered Bridge, and Dahinda. The route offers historical landmarks, local attractions, and family-friendly activities along the way.

James Knox Park
Located near Newman School, James Knox Park was named after a prominent Knoxville leader from the mid-1800s. Established in 1963, the park serves as a gathering place for residents and hosts several citywide events and community celebrations each year.

Old Knox County Jail
The Old Knox County Jail was the first jail established in Knox County, originally built in the early 1830s. Due to repeated jailbreaks and several fires, a new facility was constructed in 1845. The jail officially closed in 1873 and was later used as a private residence. Today, visitors can tour the building and see what the jail looked like during the 1870s.

John G. Sanburn Log Cabin
The John G. Sanburn Log Cabin is the only remaining structure from Knoxville’s early log cabin era. Sanburn played an important role in the town’s founding and civic life. The cabin was rediscovered when a later structure built around it was being demolished. A watchful neighbor noticed the original logs and helped save the historic structure from destruction. It has since been restored and relocated, allowing visitors to experience this piece of early Knoxville history.

Newman School
Built in 1876, Newman School has been carefully restored and is now maintained by the Knox County Retired Teachers Association. Visitors can tour the school and see authentic classroom items from the era, including dinner pails, inkwells, and vintage lesson books, offering a glimpse into 19th-century education.

Knox County Museum
Opened in 2009, the Knox County Museum features a wide range of historical artifacts that highlight the region’s past. Exhibits include military memorabilia, photographs, historical books, pottery, and local inventions such as the Brown Corn Planter and The Shrinking Tool. The museum also displays items connected to the area’s connection to Abraham Lincoln, including the Lincoln buggy.

Walnut Grove Farm
Established in 1835 by the Charles family, Walnut Grove Farm eventually grew into a large cattle farming operation. The farm’s historic barn, constructed in 1865, has been beautifully restored. Today the property operates as a wedding and event venue as well as a bed and breakfast, preserving an important piece of prairie farming history.

Knox County Fairgrounds
The Knox County Fairgrounds, established in 1851, spans 53 acres and remains an important community gathering place. In addition to hosting the annual Knox County Fair and the Knox County Scenic Drive, the fairgrounds feature a farmers market, antique displays, collectibles, and family attractions such as kiddie train rides throughout the year.

Helpful Links

• City of Knoxville
• Knoxville Public Library
• Knoxville County Scenic Drive
• Knox County Museum
• Old Knox County Jail
• John G. Sanburn Log Cabin
• Newman School
• James Knox Park
• Walnut Grove Farm
• Knox County Fairgrounds