St. Clair County, Illinois

Victorian home restored

Mermaid House Hotel

St. Clair County Illinois 1809

St. Clair County Illinois 1812

St. Clair County Illinois 1813

St. Clair County Illinois 1816

St. Clair County is a county located in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of Illinois. According to the 2020 United States Census, it had a population of 259,686, making it the eighth-most populous county in Illinois. The county seat is Belleville. St. Clair County is part of the St. Louis Metropolitan Area and is directly across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, Missouri.

History

St. Clair County was established on April 27, 1790, by the Northwest Territory government, making it one of the earliest counties in Illinois. Its name honors Arthur St. Clair, an officer in the British Army during the French and Indian War and a general in the American Revolutionary War. The county originally covered an extensive area before the formation of new counties reduced it to its current size.

Geography

The county has a total area of 674 square miles, of which 658 square miles is land and 16 square miles (2.4%) is water. It is the largest county by area in Illinois south of Springfield. The western border of St. Clair County is formed by the Mississippi River, which separates it from Missouri.

Adjacent counties

• Madison County (north)
• Clinton County (northeast)
• Washington County (east)
• Randolph County (south)
• Monroe County (southwest)
• City of St. Louis (west)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population was 259,686. The racial makeup of the county was diverse, with a significant percentage of African Americans. The county has a variety of housing, educational institutions, and employment opportunities, contributing to its demographic makeup.

Economy

St. Clair County's economy is diverse, with sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail playing significant roles. The county benefits from its proximity to St. Louis, Missouri, facilitating cross-border commerce and employment.

Education

The county is home to several higher education institutions, including Southwestern Illinois College and Lindenwood University-Belleville. These institutions offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, contributing to the educational and economic development of the region.

Transportation

St. Clair County is served by a network of highways, including Interstate Highways I-64, I-70, and I-55, facilitating regional connectivity. The county also benefits from public transportation options, including the MetroLink light rail system, which provides access to St. Louis and other parts of the metropolitan area.

Government

The county government is responsible for local services such as law enforcement, public health, and road maintenance. The government structure includes a board of county commissioners, elected officials responsible for legislative and executive functions.

Culture and recreation

St. Clair County offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities, including parks, museums, and historical sites. The county's location along the Mississippi River provides opportunities for water-based activities and events.