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The Alexis Phelps House was built in 1832-1833 by Alexis Phelps who was a fur trader with the Sac and Fox Indians. The two story frame house was erected on a high point along the Mississippi River.The house was restored by Henderson County Historical Society, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The house is of the New England style of architecture. The Phelps House has been completely refurbished and is open by appointment for breakfast, teas, luncheons, and receptions. Great place to relax and view the Mississippi River.
Phone Joanne Klossing @ 309-627-2567
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The Oquawka Wagon Bridge crosses the Henderson Creek about 2.5 miles south of Oquawka. It was built in 1866 by Jacob Allaman at the site of a previous structure known as the Eames Bridge. The bridge is 104 feet long, and all structural members were originally made of hand hewn native black walnut. In service for 68 years, the Covered Bridge was given to the State of Illinois in 1935. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Located in Dallas City its a unique landmark of the L. Burg family legacy. The spacious singular stone block structure resembles a castle and holds a fascination for all who pass by. The Burg family manufacturer of "Fine Carriages and Vehicles", was a tribute to the area. The Burg Car was a quality "Vehicle" manufactured circa 1910. There is one Burg Car still known to be in existence and operable and it appropriately is in Dallas City.
The living quarters of the Burg House are being refurbished and will be utilized as a private residence when the remodeling is completed. No tours are available but this is a great photo opportunity.
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The territory comprised within its limits has, at successive periods, been included in four other counties of the State. Its territory was first (1790-1812) a part of St. Clair County; second (1812-21) a part of Madison County; third (1821-25) a part of Pike County, and fourth (1825-41) a part of Warren County.
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There is a Genealogy room in the Henderson County Library that is worth a trip. If you are interested in old plat maps going back to 1868, visit the genealogy room. If you are interested in the 42 pioneer cemetaries, visit the genealogy room.
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The county of Henderson was created by an act of legislature effective January 1, 1841. Oquawka has been the County Seat since that time. The four large white columns and south portion of the building we see today are that of the original structure. It is the second oldest courthouse in Illinois still in continuous use. Judge Stephen Douglas presided over the first court in Oquawka.
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The history of Henderson County was published by the Henderson County Historical Society in 1988. A limited number of copies of this book are being offered at a special sale price of $12.00. Books can be purchased at the Henderson County Library and at the Horse and Buggy Museum.
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Erected in 1882 on the Santa Fe mainline this is a unique structure for the Midwest. With a span of 1000 feet plus and 6 stories high, it testifies to the steel girder construction skills of that era. The U.S. Army provided top security for the trestle during WW II. This same mainline remains in full service today. It is located 1 mile east of Media on the county blacktop.
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Norma Jean was 30 years old in 1972 and working with the Clark and Walters Circus. It was a small circus playing small towns where elephants are a delight to children. On the morning of July 17 in Oquawka a very ominous summer thunderstorm roared east across the Mississippi river. The 6500 lb. Norma Jean was chained to the only tree in this area. While the trainer was attempting to undo the chain, a bolt of lightning came down from the dark sky and struck the very tree which held Norma Jean fast. July 17, 1972 was Norma Jean's last show day. With permission of the State of Illinois, Norma Jean was interred on the spot where she had fallen. The grave is marked with a large boulder and with a hand laid monument erected of local stone holding a head stone. Norma Jean's memory lives on in Oquawka.
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William T. Weir started the Oak Grove Fruit Farm in 1884. Six generations have lived here. Named as an Illinois Centennial Business by the Illinois State Historical Society. Great place to get apples and see a museum.
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