Heyworth, IL
County: McLean
History
Heyworth, Illinois is a small village located in McLean County, Illinois. It was originally settled in the early 1800s by pioneers moving westward from places like Kentucky and Tennessee.
The village was officially founded in 1859 by Thomas J. Heyworth, a lawyer and politician from Springfield, Illinois. Heyworth purchased a large amount of land in the area and laid out the village, which was named after him.
During its early years, Heyworth grew rapidly as an agriculture and railroad hub. The first railroad line, the Great Western Railroad, was built through the village in 1854. This allowed for easy transportation of goods and people, leading to increased trade and economic development in the area.
The 20th century brought further growth and prosperity to Heyworth. The community continued to rely on agriculture as its main industry, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary products. The village also had several small businesses, including a grain elevator, lumberyard, and general stores.
Over the years, Heyworth has faced its fair share of challenges. The Great Depression of the 1930s hit the village hard, causing businesses to close and unemployment to rise. However, the community persevered and slowly recovered.
In recent years, Heyworth has seen a shift towards becoming a suburban community. Its close proximity to larger cities like Bloomington-Normal has attracted residents looking for a quieter, more rural lifestyle. Today, Heyworth is known for its excellent school system and strong sense of community.
Despite its small size, Heyworth has a rich history and a proud community that continues to honor its past while looking towards the future.
Attractions
Sugarcreek Gardens
A beautiful garden center and nursery that offers a wide variety of plants, flowers, and gardening supplies.
Randolph Township Historical Society
A local museum that showcases the history and heritage of Heyworth and the surrounding area through exhibits and artifacts.
Argyle Lake State Park
A scenic park with a 93-acre lake where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.
Heyworth Community Park
A community park with playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails.
Fox Creek Golf Course
A well-maintained 18-hole golf course that offers a challenging and enjoyable game for golf enthusiasts.
Weldon Springs State Park
A nature preserve with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas.
McLean County Fairgrounds
Hosts various events, including the annual McLean County Fair, carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibitions.
Mackinaw Valley Vineyard
While not located in Heyworth, it is nearby and offers wine tastings, live music, and a peaceful countryside setting.
These are just a few of the attractions that Heyworth, IL has to offer.
Climate
Heyworth, Illinois has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature in Heyworth is around 51°F (11°C). Summers are typically warm with temperatures ranging from the 70s°F (20s°C) to the 90s°F (30s°C). Humidity can be relatively high during the summer months.
Winters in Heyworth are cold with temperatures in the 20s°F (-6°C) to 30s°F (-1°C), and occasionally dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common during the winter season, with Heyworth receiving an average of 25 inches (64 cm) of snow annually.
Spring and autumn seasons in Heyworth are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from the 50s°F (10s°C) to the 70s°F (20s°C). These transitional seasons experience moderate rainfall.
Overall, Heyworth experiences four distinct seasons, with warm and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild springs and autumns.
Neighborhoods
Heyworth, IL is a small village in McLean County, Illinois. While the village itself is relatively small, it does consist of a few different neighborhoods with their own unique characteristics.
Downtown Heyworth
The heart of the village, downtown Heyworth is a quaint area with a few local shops, restaurants, and businesses. It has a small-town feel and serves as the gathering spot for locals.
Country Club Estates
Located on the eastern edge of Heyworth, Country Club Estates is a neighborhood that features larger, more upscale homes. It is named after the nearby Heyworth Country Club, which offers golfing and other recreational activities. The neighborhood is known for its spacious lots and well-maintained properties.
Parkside
Situated near the village park, Parkside is a residential area that offers a suburban lifestyle. It has a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, making it an ideal choice for families. The neighborhood provides easy access to the park's amenities, such as walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Lake Bloomington
While not directly in Heyworth, the Lake Bloomington area is situated nearby and attracts residents from the village. The lake offers recreational activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. Several homes and cabins surround the lake, making it a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil setting outside of the village.
Overall, Heyworth, IL features a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different preferences, whether one seeks a small-town atmosphere, upscale living, suburban convenience, or access to nearby recreational amenities.