Embark on a captivating journey along the historic stretches of Route 66 in Illinois, where charming villages and a significant city await discovery. This passage guides you through the rich tapestry of history, from coal mining roots to vibrant modern communities, culminating in the esteemed city of Edwardsville, Illinois. As one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in the state, Edwardsville offers a compelling glimpse into Illinois’s past and present, making it an essential stop for any traveler interested in heritage and Americana.
Livingston: A Village Forged by Coal on Route 66
Just a short four miles beyond Staunton, travelers on Route 66 will encounter the quaint village of Livingston, Illinois. This community, initially a bustling coal mining town established in 1905, has since transitioned, with its current livelihood largely supported by the surrounding agricultural landscape.
The genesis of Livingston began in 1904, amidst what was predominantly farmland. The establishment of the Staunton Coal Company drew numerous settlers to the area, clustering near the railway lines that served the mine. This influx of workers included individuals from across the United States and immigrants from various parts of the world, all seeking opportunities in the burgeoning coal industry. The new settlement was christened Livingston, honoring a farming family on whose land significant coal veins were unearthed. The Livingston family played a pivotal role in laying out the village, and the first post office commenced operations from the Livingston Lumber Company office in December 1904. David G. Livingston, a prominent figure, served as the inaugural postmaster and held various civic roles over the years, including deputy sheriff, deputy coroner, and school treasurer. The village officially incorporated in November 1905, and by the following year, residents enjoyed the convenience of telephone service.
Livingston continued its development, with a village hall and jail constructed in 1907, alongside a new frame schoolhouse. The year 1911 saw the establishment of the village’s first bank and church. However, progress was briefly interrupted in 1912 when a devastating fire consumed a large store, along with the village hall and jail. Undeterred, the community rebuilt, erecting a new two-story brick village hall in 1913, which incorporated a jail, firehouse, and meeting hall. Further expansion occurred in 1917 with the construction of a creamery and the town’s very first high school.
Over the subsequent decades, Livingston witnessed the proliferation of businesses and churches. Yet, the prosperity tied to coal mining began to wane. The closure of the New Staunton Coal Company in 1930 marked the initial decline of the industry, leading to a gradual decrease in mining operations, which saw businesses and residents come and go. The last graduating class from Livingston Community Consolidated High School was in 2004, after which the Livingston School District merged with the neighboring Staunton School District. Today, Livingston is a small, close-knit community, home to approximately 850 people, still retaining its historical character along America’s Mother Road.
Hamel: A Testament to Route 66 Heritage
Continuing your journey another eight miles along Route 66, you’ll arrive at the charming village of Hamel, Illinois. Before reaching the village center, you’ll pass a distinctive landmark: the St. Paul Lutheran Church, adorned with its large, blue neon cross. This poignant symbol, placed by the Brunnworth family in memory of their son lost during World War II, serves as a beacon, seemingly offering safe passage to all who travel along this historic route.
Just across I-55 from the iconic blue cross stands the meticulously restored Hamel Barn. This barn is one of the few remaining examples of Meramec Caverns advertisements, a unique piece of Americana. Its restoration by the Route 66 Illinois Preservation Committee ensures that this piece of roadside history will continue to tell its story for generations to come.
As you enter Hamel, it becomes immediately apparent that this is a town deeply proud of its Route 66 heritage. Banners proudly display its connection to the Mother Road, complemented by nostalgic Burma-Shave signs that evoke a bygone era of travel. Established in 1818, Hamel’s early days were those of a small settlement, finally achieving village incorporation in 1955. A must-visit while in Hamel is Weezy’s Route 66 Bar and Grill, conveniently located at the junction of old Route 66 and Route 140. Originally built in the 1930s as Ernie’s Roadhouse, this historic tavern continues its tradition of serving a refreshing cold brew to the countless travelers exploring the legendary Mother Road.
Edwardsville: The Enduring Legacy of Illinois’s Third Oldest City
Another short eight-mile drive brings you to Edwardsville, Illinois, a city of profound historical significance, proudly holding the distinction of being the third oldest city in the State of Illinois. Its roots stretch back to 1805 when Thomas Kirkpatrick constructed the first log cabin in the area. Other intrepid settlers soon followed, establishing a burgeoning community. Notably, one of these earliest cabins still stands today at 1712 N. Main Street, a tangible link to the city’s pioneering past.
Early Foundations and Naming Edwardsville
The year 1812 marked a pivotal moment for the growing settlement. Ninian Edwards, who served as Illinois’s first territorial governor, established Madison County and wisely designated Kirkpatrick’s farm as the county seat. Just three years later, Kirkpatrick formally surveyed the fledgling community and bestowed upon it the name Edwardsville, a fitting tribute to Governor Edwards. This act officially cemented the city’s identity and its place in Illinois history.
The influx of pioneers continued, and by 1816, Edwardsville boasted two general stores, signifying its growth as a commercial hub. One of these establishments was owned by Abraham Prickett, who had arrived from Kentucky in 1808. Prickett would become the town’s first postmaster, and his son, George, holds the distinction of being the first white child born in the settlement. The other store belonged to Benjamin Stephenson, a Virginian who later constructed a notable home that remains a landmark in Edwardsville today. This 1820 Federal-style brick building, a pioneer in local architecture, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and functions as a museum, offering immersive, hands-on activities that transport visitors back in time.
Growth, Decline, and Resurgence
Early Edwardsville continued to flourish. John T. Lusk, who built the first log cabin in what would eventually become the upscale St. Louis Street residential area, established the city’s first hotel at Main and Union Streets. Governor Edwards himself eventually made Edwardsville his home, residing in a grand house at the corner of Buchanan and Vandalia Streets, though sadly, this structure has not survived to the present day.
By 1834, however, Edwardsville faced a period of decline as much of its trade was diverted to the burgeoning cities of St. Louis and Alton. The city’s population dipped to approximately 350 residents, supporting four stores, two saloons, a castor oil factory, and a female academy. Fortunately, this downturn was temporary. By the mid-19th century, Edwardsville began to experience renewed growth, and after the Civil War, its population swelled to around 2,000 residents. The city thrived along the expanding railroad tracks, attracting new businesses and establishing several factories, revitalizing its economy and community spirit.
The Visionary Leclaire Community
A significant chapter in Edwardsville’s industrial and social history began in 1890 when N. O. Nelson relocated his plumbing and fixture factory to the city’s outskirts. Nelson, a visionary industrialist, concurrently established a model company town around his factory. This unique community, known as Leclaire, was founded on the progressive principles of the cooperative movement and profit-sharing between owners and laborers. Workers themselves chose the name Leclaire, honoring Edmund Leclaire of France, a pioneer in the profit-sharing concept. The Leclaire community grew to encompass 150 acres, providing its residents with an abundance of educational and recreational opportunities, fostering a unique quality of life for its time.
Edwardsville Today: A Living Historical Tapestry
Today, Edwardsville, Illinois, is home to over 21,500 residents and continues to provide numerous glimpses into its rich history and diverse architecture. The Edwardsville Historic Preservation Commission has diligently designated 40 local landmarks, including many beautifully preserved historic homes. The city also boasts two districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the Leclaire district, which preserves the legacy of N. O. Nelson’s innovative company town, and the St. Louis district, a picturesque tree-lined residential area showcasing a fascinating array of architectural styles. The downtown area of Edwardsville is particularly noteworthy, featuring many commercial buildings constructed in the late 1800s, each telling a story of the city’s enduring past. As you prepare to depart Edwardsville, keep an eye out for the nostalgic old Town and County Motel sign on the right side of the road, just before you cross the I-255 overpass, a final nod to the city’s connection to travel and tourism.
Conclusion: Embracing Illinois’s Historic Route 66 Towns
The journey through Livingston, Hamel, and especially Edwardsville, Illinois, offers a profound appreciation for the rich history embedded along Route 66. From the coal mining legacy of Livingston to Hamel’s proud embrace of the Mother Road, and finally, to Edwardsville’s enduring status as a historical and architectural treasure, these communities provide a captivating narrative of Illinois’s development. Exploring these towns is more than just a drive; it’s an immersion into the stories, struggles, and triumphs that shaped this remarkable region. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, the charm and significance of Edwardsville, Illinois, and its surrounding villages make them truly unforgettable destinations on any itinerary.
