Bishop Hill
Swedish Utopia
State: Illinois
County: Henry County
Founded: 1846
Abandoned: 1861
Peak Population: 1,000
Bishop Hill was founded by Swedish religious dissenters. After their charismatic leader Erik Jansson was murdered, the commune collapsed. Many original buildings survive.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Quick Facts
- Swedish religious commune
- Leader murdered 1850
- Many original buildings
Location
Address: Bishop Hill, Illinois
Coordinates: 41.2, -90.1178