Bishop Hill
Swedish Utopia
State: Illinois
County: Henry County
Founded: 1846
Abandoned: Semi-ghost
Peak Population: 1,500+
Bishop Hill was founded by Swedish religious dissenters led by Erik Jansson. The communal colony thrived until Jansson was murdered in 1850. Today, about 130 people live in the National Historic Landmark, which preserves 15 original colony buildings.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Quick Facts
- Swedish utopian colony
- 15 original buildings
- National Historic Landmark
Location
Address: Bishop Hill, IL
Coordinates: 41.1833, -90.1333