Carlinville - One of the Best Small Towns in America
As a quaint, quiet rural community, Carlinville is a quintessential example of small town America. Recognized federally for its scenic beauty as a "Tree City," Carlinville is home to many tourist sites, annual festivals, bed and breakfasts, and restaurants/diners where its local flavor thrives.
With a population of nearly 7,000 people in the greater Carlinville area, we are unique among towns our size. We enjoy a large historic district, the center of which is the town square. Still the focal point of community activity, the square is known for its historic buildings, beautiful gazebo and open air summer concerts. Visible above the building tops is the great dome of the Macoupin County Courthouse, once the largest county courthouse in the country.
Carlinville is rich in History and as a community we have preserved its beauty, making it one of the best small communities in America. Victorian-style mansions, Sears homes, a brick square, parks, historical buildings and the friendliest people you will find anywhere. Carlinville's downtown is part of a large historic district which has been on the National Register of Historic Places in Illinois since 1976.
Although the square has many wonderful buildings, probably the most significant is the Loomis House. Built by Judge Thaddeus L. Loomis, it was designed by architect E.E. Meyers who also designed the Macoupin County Courthouse and 1869 jail. When it was completed in 1870, the Loomis House was opened as a hotel with fifty rooms on three floors and a large dining area. Eight years after it opened Judge Loomis sold the building due to financial problems and the name was changed to the St. George Hotel. Purchased in 1975 by Alex and Fern Perardi, the Loomis House has been remarkably preserved and is home to several businesses owned by the Perardis. If you're planning to visit Carlinville, the Loomis House is a must-see!
In addition to the historic buildings, the square is complimented by a beautiful gazebo which has become a popular site for a variety of local activities. Donated by the Millard family, the gazebo is a centerpiece for the community visible from all directions as you approach the square.
More than historic buildings, however, Carlinville is also a cultural center, with excellent educational institutions, leading industry, and entertainment. Carlinville is also the home of Blackburn College, a technically Presbyterian college, known for its student work policy that asserts students in working and leadership positions on campus.
We are proud of Carlinville and want to share it with everyone that is interested
Please, explore Carlinville and see what makes it one of "The 100 Best Small Towns in America."
Sources:
City of Carlinville, IL
Wikipedia Encyclopedia
