About Litchfield
Whether you're seeking a scenic location, a top-notch education, or a place of recreation for your whole family, Litchfield has what you're looking for.
Located to Suit Your Needs
Located along Interstate 55, Litchfield is approximately a one hour's drive from St. Louis, Missouri and Springfield, Illinois. With two industrial parks, an airport, a regional educational center, and full-service medical facilities, the City of Litchfield is ideal for attracting newcomers.
History
Litchfield began in 1853 with the genesis of the Terre Haute, Alton, and St. Louis Railroad. When the Civil War came, Litchfield was the first in the State to respond to the President's call. One company from Litchfield was used to help form the Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment. This was the first in the State of Illinois.
Then, oil and gas were discovered and two coal mines were sunk in the area in the 1880s. As the years progressed, Litchfield was blessed with six railroads (Two remain - the C.B. and Q. and the Norfolk Southern):
- Burlington and Quincy
- Chicago
- Illinois Central
- The Interurban
- Litchfield and Madison and the C.C.C. and St. Louis, known as the Big Four
- The Wabash, now Norfolk Southern
Among the factors that contributed to Litchfield's continued growth was the building of U.S. Route 66. U.S. Route 66 was the main highway from Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA until 1977. Two alignments of the original 'Mother Road' remain intact today. Route 66 continues to be an active party of Litchfield as it brings tourists from all over the world.
Litchfield has continued to adapt to the changing transportation industry. With the development of the interstate system, Litchfield has continued to expand. Now located along three major crossroads, Route 66, Route 16, and Interstate 55, Litchfield is best known as the halfway point between Illinois' capital, Springfield, and St. Louis, Missouri. It is a city known for its Route 66 icons, expansive lake, and lush landscapes.
Reference: Visit Litchfield.com - A Short History About Litchfield Illinois
Opportunities for a Great Education
Educational facilities in the City of Litchfield are top-notch.
Fun for the Whole Family
Recreation is at its best in this Central Illinois community. Litchfield has numerous parks and lakes for outdoor lovers. Lake Lou Yaeger is over 1,200 acres and 45 miles of beautiful shoreline with 300 acres of parks.
The Lake draws fishermen and boaters from both Illinois and Missouri. Two marinas are equipped with everything from a snack bar and bait shop to gasoline and fishing permits. You can also enjoy nature trails through the Shoal Creek Conservation Area and the beautiful atmosphere at one of the City's numerous parks.
Explore Route 66
Take a trip back in time and don't miss the Hall of Fame sites located along Route 66. Experience the nostalgia of three miles of the original "Mother Road" highway while driving through Litchfield.
The City of Litchfield can meet the needs of visitors whether it is for a day or a lifetime with beautiful accommodations, fine dining, and great shopping facilities. Come see what others have already discovered. The City of Litchfield: committed to growth and improving quality of life.
The City of Litchfield can meet the needs of visitors whether it is for a day or a lifetime with beautiful accommodations, fine dining, and great shopping facilities. Come see what others have already discovered. The City of Litchfield is committed to growth and improving the quality of life.