Kaskaskia, IL Map
Kaskaskia is a US city in Randolph County in the state of Illinois. Located at the longitude and latitude of -89.916389, 37.921389 and situated at an elevation of 114 meters. In the 2020 United States Census, Kaskaskia, IL had a population of 21 people. Kaskaskia is in the Central Standard Time timezone at Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) -6. Find directions to Kaskaskia, IL, browse local businesses, landmarks, get current traffic estimates, road conditions, and more.
Kaskaskia, Illinois, holds a unique place in American history as the first state capital of Illinois and one of the earliest European settlements in the region. Established in the early 18th century by French Jesuit missionaries, it was once a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Today, Kaskaskia is an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts, known for its fascinating past and the singular distinction of being one of the few areas of Illinois located west of the Mississippi River due to changes in the river's course. Visitors can explore the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a historic church with roots dating back to the 1600s, and the Liberty Bell of the West, a bell gifted by King Louis XV of France that served as a symbol of freedom during the American Revolutionary War.
Another key attraction in Kaskaskia is the Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial, which commemorates the town's significant role in American history. The memorial houses the famed Liberty Bell of the West and offers insights into the town's storied past. Although the town has faced challenges such as flooding, which has dramatically reduced its size over the years, Kaskaskia remains a testament to early American frontier life. Its historical significance and the serene, somewhat isolated setting make it a compelling visit for those interested in the early narrative of Illinois and the broader Midwest.
Nearby cities include: Chester, IL, Ellis Grove, IL, Lithium, MO, Evansville, IL, Rockwood, IL, Perryville, MO, Prairie du Rocher, IL, Steeleville, IL, Ruma, IL, Degognia, IL.