Oquawka is located in western Illinois in Henderson County (of which it is the county seat). It is situated 30 miles west of Galesburg on Highway 164 on the banks of the Mississippi River. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 1,563, an increase of 121 since 1990.

The town's history begins in 1827 when Dr. Isaac Galland staked his claim to lands proscribed in the Military Tract--land ceded to veterans of the War of 1812 against the British. The land was an area north of the Illinois River and east of the Mississippi River.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Oquawka is only minutes south of Delabar State Park, Big River State Forest and the Oquawka Game Refuge.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Norma Jean, a 6500-pound, 30-year old elephant touring with the Clark and Walters Circus was electrocuted in 1972 by a bolt of lightning. She is buried on the spot where she fell and a large boulder serves as a poignant reminder.