Jerseyville is located in southwestern Illinois in
Jersey County (of which it is the county seat) about 15 miles northeast of the confluence of the
Illinois River and the
Mississippi River. It is 40 miles NNW of
St Louis and 70 miles southwest of
Springfield, the state capital. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 7,508, an increase of 126 since 1990.
The area is the former home of the Illini, Kickapoo, Menomini and Potawatomi Nations and was first "discovered" by Frenchman Pere (Father) Jacques Marquette and French-Canadian Louis Joliet in 1673.
The town and county were named after the state of New Jersey which in turn was named after a shire (county) in Great Britain.
For outdoor lovers, Pere Marquette State Park is located where the two great rivers meet. In addition, golfers will enjoy their outings at Wolves' Crossing Golf Course.
