New Grand Chain, IL

Exploring the Best of the Shawnee Wilderness

Exploring the Best of the Shawnee National Forest Illinois May 2024 Discovering Shawnee Nature’s Gems Our journey through Shawnee National Forest was an unexpected discovery of Southern Illinois’ hidden gems. While living in Illinois near Chicago, we never knew that this part of the state was so beautiful! Each stop offered a new perspective. Getting

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Cape Girardeau, MO, A Mix of French, Spanish & English Styles

Cape Girardeau, MO, A Mix of French, Spanish & English Illinois May 2024 The Crossroads of the Past Cape Girardeau started as a temporary trading post by French soldier Jean Baptiste de Girardot in 1733. It became a permanent settlement in 1793. Following the 1803 Louisiana Purchase, the town quickly grew into a vital economic

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Exploring Illinois’ Lowest Point at Fort Defiance State Park

Exploring Illinois’ Lowest Point at Fort Defiance State Park Illinois May 2024 Geography, History, & Nature at Fort Defiance At the southernmost tip of Illinois lies the state’s lowest geographical point, sitting just 279 feet above sea level. Here, at Fort Defiance State Park, historically known as Camp Defiance, geography, history, and the natural environment

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