Sumner, IL

Sumner, Illinois, is a small town located in Lawrence County in the southeastern part of the state. The town has a population of just over 900 people as of the last census.

Sumner was first settled in the early 19th century and was originally called Artemesia. However, in 1835, the town was renamed in honor of General Jethro Sumner, an officer of the American Revolutionary War.

The town grew rapidly in the mid-19th century, thanks to its location on the Wabash and Erie Canal. The canal, which connected the Great Lakes to the Ohio River, brought trade and commerce to Sumner, making it an important transportation hub in the region.

In addition to the canal, the construction of the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad in the 1850s further boosted Sumner's growth. The railroad allowed for easier transportation of goods and people, further fueling the town's economy.

Like many small towns in the Midwest, Sumner faced challenges during the Great Depression. However, the town managed to survive and adapt to the changing times. Today, Sumner remains a close-knit community with a strong sense of history and pride.

One notable historical event in Sumner's history is the annual Popcorn Festival. This festival, which started in 1939, celebrates the town's agricultural heritage and the importance of popcorn production in the area. The festival features a parade, live music, carnival rides, and, of course, plenty of popcorn.

Another notable historical site in Sumner is the Lawrence County Historical Society Museum. This museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the town's history and offers visitors a glimpse into the past of Sumner and the surrounding area.

In recent years, Sumner has faced some economic challenges due to the decline of manufacturing and changes in the agricultural industry. However, the town continues to work towards revitalization and economic development.

Overall, Sumner, Illinois, has a rich history rooted in its early settlement, the development of transportation infrastructure, and its agricultural heritage. Today, the town remains a small but vibrant community that cherishes its past while looking towards the future.

Lawrenceville City Park

A beautiful park with a playground, walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond.

The Red Hills State Park

Located nearby, it offers hiking trails, camping grounds, fishing opportunities, and a scenic lake.

The Sumner 1st Street Historic District

A historic district with well-preserved nineteenth-century commercial buildings and shops, offering a glimpse into the town's past.

The Sumner City Park

A local park with a swimming pool, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields.

The Sumner Coal Mine Memorial

A memorial dedicated to the miners who lost their lives in the nearby coal mines.

The Embarras River

The river passes through Sumner, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying nature.

The County Line Apple Orchard

A popular spot for apple picking and enjoying various apple-based products.

The Little Red Shed

An antique store offering a wide range of vintage and unique items.

The Sumner Fall Festival

An annual event held in October, featuring live music, food vendors, crafts, and games for all ages.

The Sumner Grayscale Gallery

A local art gallery showcasing various works of talented regional artists.

Sumner, IL experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. The summers are typically hot and humid, while the winters are cold and often snowy.

Summers in Sumner are warm to hot, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (25-30 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s Fahrenheit (30-35 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. Summers are also characterized by high humidity levels, which can make the weather feel even hotter.

Fall in Sumner brings cooler temperatures, with average highs in the 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (15-22 degrees Celsius). The region experiences beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors, creating a picturesque landscape.

Winters in Sumner are cold, with average temperatures ranging from the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit (-5 to 0 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during this time, with an average annual snowfall of around 10-15 inches (25-38 cm). Freezing temperatures are also frequent, with occasional cold snaps that can bring temperatures below zero Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius).

Spring in Sumner gradually warms up, with average temperatures in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-16 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is more frequent during this period, as the region experiences mild to moderate showers, helping to nurture the emerging flora and fauna.

Overall, Sumner, IL has a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. It is important to note that weather patterns can vary from year to year, so it is advisable to check local forecasts for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Sumner, IL is a small town located in Lawrence County, in southeastern Illinois. While the town itself is relatively small, it does have a few distinct neighborhoods that offer their own unique characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Sumner:

Downtown

The heart of Sumner is its downtown area, which is characterized by historic buildings, charming small-town atmosphere, and a sense of community. This is where you can find local businesses, shops, restaurants, and important community landmarks.

Residential areas

Sumner has a mix of residential areas scattered throughout the town. These neighborhoods consist of homes ranging from small to medium-sized, and they offer a quiet and peaceful living environment. Streets are often lined with trees, providing a pleasant backdrop and adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.

Industrial areas

Sumner also has industrial areas where you can find manufacturing plants, warehouses, and other industrial facilities. These areas tend to be located on the outskirts of the town and provide employment opportunities for the local community.

Rural outskirts

As you move away from the town center, you will encounter more rural areas surrounding Sumner. These areas are characterized by open fields, farmland, and a peaceful rural lifestyle. Many residents living in these areas enjoy the tranquility and space that these rural outskirts provide.

Suburban developments

In recent years, there has been some suburban development on the outskirts of Sumner. These neighborhoods typically feature newer homes and offer a suburban living experience with access to modern amenities. These developments continue to expand as the town grows.

It is important to note that while Sumner is a small town, it offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you prefer a downtown atmosphere, a quiet residential area, or a more rural setting, there is likely a neighborhood in Sumner that will suit your needs.