East Alton, IL

East Alton, Illinois is a small village located in Madison County, in the southwestern part of the state. The history of East Alton can be traced back to the early 19th century when the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Illini and the Cahokia.

The first European settler in the area was Captain Benjamin Godfrey, who arrived in 1834 and established a small settlement known as Godfrey. The arrival of Godfrey marked the beginning of significant development in the region.

In the late 19th century, the discovery of coal in the area led to a boom in population and industrial growth. The St. Louis and Southern Railroad established a station in the region in 1879, which facilitated transportation and the shipment of coal. This attracted more settlers and industries to the area.

In 1893, the Western Cartridge Company, a leading manufacturer of ammunition, moved its operations from St. Louis, Missouri to East Alton. This move brought prosperity to the village and led to significant industrial development. Western Cartridge Company later became Winchester-Western, a renowned name in the firearms industry.

Throughout the 20th century, East Alton continued to grow and diversify its industrial base. The village saw the establishment of various manufacturing companies, including the Olin Corporation, which manufactured chemical products, and Zion Lutheran Homes, which produced mattresses.

Despite the economic growth, East Alton faced challenges in the form of economic slowdowns and industrial restructuring in the latter half of the 20th century. Many of the industrial facilities either closed or downsized, leading to job losses and a decline in population.

However, the village has made efforts to revitalize its economy and attract new businesses. Today, East Alton is a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It is home to various businesses and offers amenities such as parks, schools, and recreational facilities.

Overall, the history of East Alton is closely tied to its industrial past, with companies like the Western Cartridge Company and Olin Corporation playing crucial roles in shaping the village's development. Despite facing challenges, East Alton continues to thrive and adapt, maintaining its identity as a small community in southwestern Illinois.

Alton Belle Casino

A riverboat casino offering various gaming options, dining, and entertainment.

Gordon F. Moore Community Park

A large park with picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and a walking/biking trail.

Alton-Wood River Sportsmen's Club

A sporting club with shooting ranges, fishing lakes, and outdoor recreation activities.

Alton Museum of History and Art

Showcasing local history, art, and exhibits related to the Alton area.

Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

A historic landmark commemorating Elijah Lovejoy, an abolitionist newspaper editor.

Alton Little Theater

A community theater that stages productions throughout the year.

Alton Square Mall

A shopping destination with various retail shops, dining options, and a movie theater.

Argosy Casino Alton

A riverboat casino featuring gaming options, dining, and live entertainment.

Lock and Dam 26

A lock and dam system on the Mississippi River that allows for boat traffic and offers scenic river views.

National Great Rivers Museum

Located near the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, the museum explores the history and ecology of the Mississippi River.

The climate of East Alton, IL, can be categorized as humid continental. It experiences all four distinct seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter. Summers in East Alton are typically warm and humid. The average high temperatures in June, July, and August range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (29-34 degrees Celsius), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the upper 90s Fahrenheit (35-37 degrees Celsius). Humidity during this time can make it feel even hotter.

Fall in East Alton brings gradually cooler temperatures, with average highs in September and October ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius). The area experiences some rainfall during this season, which contributes to the changing colors of the leaves.

Winters in East Alton can be quite cold. Average high temperatures in December, January, and February range from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (1-6 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can drop below freezing at night, and snowfall is common during these months. The area typically receives moderate snowfall, with the potential for occasional heavy snowstorms.

Spring in East Alton is mild, with temperatures gradually warming up. Average high temperatures in March, April, and May range from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (13-24 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is relatively common during this season, and occasional thunderstorms can occur.

Overall, East Alton experiences a mix of weather throughout the year, with hot and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild springs and falls. It is important to be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress accordingly when visiting or residing in East Alton.

East Alton, IL is a small village located in Madison County, Illinois. It is situated in the Metro-East region of the Greater St. Louis area. While East Alton itself doesn't have distinct neighborhoods, the village is surrounded by various communities that are worth mentioning. Here are a few nearby neighborhoods:

Wood River

Located to the west of East Alton, Wood River is a separate municipality but is often considered part of the East Alton-Wood River area. It is known for its industrial history and is home to several refineries. Wood River offers a mix of residential areas, commercial developments, and recreational facilities such as parks and golf courses.

Roxana

Situated to the north of East Alton, Roxana is another separate village in Madison County. It is a small community with a strong sense of community pride. Roxana is primarily residential, with a few local businesses and schools.

South Roxana

Just south of Roxana lies the village of South Roxana. It is also a residential community, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. South Roxana is known for its small-town atmosphere and family-friendly environment.

Cottage Hills

Located to the east of East Alton, Cottage Hills is an unincorporated community that is also considered part of the East Alton-Wood River area. It has a rural feel, with open spaces, farmland, and wooded areas. Cottage Hills offers residents a semi-rural living experience while still providing easy access to the amenities of nearby towns.

Hartford

West of East Alton is the village of Hartford. It is known for its close-knit community and small-town charm. Hartford offers a mix of residential areas, small businesses, and recreational opportunities.

Overall, the East Alton area and its neighboring communities provide a range of living environments, from industrial areas to rural settings, ensuring residents have diverse options to meet their preferences and lifestyle.