In 1853, the town of Xenia was founded. After applying for a post office, and finding out there was another town in Illinois by that name, they chose to change it to Atlanta (after Atlanta, GA). The town became fully incorporated in 1855.

Abraham Lincoln: Looking for Lincoln Story Trail through Atlanta, IL

An official destination on the Looking for Lincoln Story Trail, Atlanta, IL, was a frequent stop for Abraham Lincoln when we was traveling as a lawyer on the 8th Judicial Circuit in the mid 19th Century. A stop at the Atlanta Museum and the Looking for Lincoln historical marker, in downtown Atlanta, provide windows into his connections and visits to the town. Contact Logan County Tourism for more details on what you’ll see on the Looking for Lincoln Story Trail in Atlanta, IL.

Route 66

In 1926, the original Route 66 went right through Downtown Atlanta. So, your Route 66 journey will not be complete without stopping at the quaint, Historic Downtown Atlanta. Check out the Paul Bunyan Statue—measuring 19 feet tall—learn some Route 66 history at that Route 66 Memories Museum, relax in the Route 66 Park, or play some vintage arcade games at the Route 66 Arcade Museum.

History

Some other history in Downtown Atlanta is seen at the Atlanta Public Library and Clocktower. Built in 1908, this octagonal-shaped building is on the National Register of Historic Places. Or take a self guided tour at Illinois' only fully restored wooden grain elevator and carriage house at the J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator Museum and Hieronymus Carriage House.

For more information, stop by the Atlanta Visitor Center, the town's Smiley Water Tower is waiting to welcome you!

Connect with the City of Atlanta