|
|
|
|
Easton, Illinois, is a small village in Mason County with a population of around 279 as of 2024. Established in the 1870s and named after Oliver C. Easton, one of the original town site owners, this rural community offers a quiet, close-knit atmosphere. Illinois Route 10 runs through the village as its Main Street, connecting it to nearby Mason City and Havana, the county seat. With a total area of just 0.24 square miles, Easton features a conservative-leaning population, mostly homeowners, and a strong sense of rural heritage. The village is near Revis Hill Prairie State Natural Area, providing access to outdoor activities, and maintains a small-town charm with local amenities like the Community Bank of Easton.
... Read more
|
|
|
|
|
|
Havana, Illinois, is a charming small town nestled along the Illinois River in Mason County, with a population of around 3,000. Known for its rich history and scenic beauty, Havana features a vibrant downtown with historic buildings, local shops, and cozy eateries that reflect its Midwestern charm. The town is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to the nearby Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. Havana’s annual events, like the Mason County Fair, bring the community together, showcasing its agricultural roots and friendly atmosphere. With its blend of natural beauty and small-town warmth, Havana, Illinois, is a hidden gem in the heart of the state.
... Read more
|
|
|
|
|
|
Manito, Illinois, is a small village in Mason County with a population of approximately 1,434 as of 2025, reflecting a gradual decline in recent years. Nestled in a rural setting, the village is known for its tight-knit community and agricultural heritage, highlighted by the annual Manito Popcorn Festival, which celebrates the region’s popcorn farming history with parades, live music, and local charm. Located 27 miles southwest of Peoria and near the Sand Ridge State Forest, Manito offers residents and visitors access to hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife observation amidst its serene, Midwestern landscape. With a predominantly White population (97.62%) and a median household income of $67,772, Manito embodies a quiet, conservative lifestyle, supported by local schools, a library, and community initiatives like the "Manito on the Move" committee aimed at enhancing village life.
... Read more
|
|
|
Mason City, IL, is a small, charming village in Mason County, nestled in the heart of central Illinois, with a population of around 2,000 residents. Known for its tight-knit community and rich agricultural heritage, the village offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle surrounded by sprawling farmlands and scenic landscapes. Mason City boasts a quaint downtown with local businesses, historic buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects its small-town pride. The community comes alive during events like the annual Mason County Fair, which celebrates the area’s farming roots with livestock shows, carnival rides, and local food. With its proximity to the Illinois River and nearby state parks, Mason City provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet, close-knit community with a deep connection to Illinois’ heartland.
... Read more
|
|
|
San Jose, Illinois, is a small village located in both Mason and Logan counties, with a population of just 423 as of the 2020 census. Situated in the heart of central Illinois, this quiet, rural community embodies the charm of small-town life, surrounded by sprawling farmland and open prairies. Named after San Jose, California, the village was established in the mid-19th century and maintains a tight-knit atmosphere where local traditions and agriculture play a central role. With its modest size and peaceful setting, San Jose offers a serene escape from urban hustle, featuring a few local businesses, community events, and a strong sense of neighborly connection that defines rural Midwestern life.
... Read more
|
|
|
|
