Jonesboro

Jonesboro is located in southern Illinois in Union County (of which it is the county seat) south of Carbondale at the intersection of Highways 127 and 146 about 10 miles east of the Mississippi River. The population estimate for 2000 was about 1,850.

Ideally situated for outdoor enthusiasts, the town is surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest. Also nearby are the Trail of Tears State Forest, the Union County SFWA, Giant City State Park and Ferne Clyffe State Park. In addition, Lake of Egypt, Crab Orchard Lake & NWR and Cedar Lake are located a few minutes north of town. Locally, Lincoln Memorial Picnic Grounds is a great venue for family picnics.

On an historical note, Jonesboro was the site of the 3rd Abraham Lincoln-Stephen A. Douglas debate in September of 1858.