Illinois Maps

IIllinois in 1822

Counties in Little Egypt

Railroad maps on the Railroads & southern Illinois page
 

Illinois as a young state in 1822 This 1822 map clearly illustrates the early settlement patterns of the four-year-old state. White settlers had first migrated into what became southern and western Illinois. This may surprise many since the Chicago and central plain areas are what first come to mind when most people think of Illinois. In fact, Illinois' first heavy commercial activity centered on the Mississippi and Ohio river valleys.  Careful scrutiny of this unique image, while difficult due to the small print, can provide some interesting insights in Illinois and Southern Illinois history.

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Counties in Little Egypt  This image simply shows the counties that many consider to be included in Little Egypt.

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Last updated August 8, 1999
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