Kaskaskia
The Island Capital
State: Illinois
County: Randolph County
Founded: 1703
Abandoned: Semi-ghost
Peak Population: 7,000
Kaskaskia was the most important town in the Illinois Country and the first state capital. In 1881, the Mississippi River shifted its course, cutting Kaskaskia off from Illinois and destroying most of the old town. Today, it is an island accessible only from Missouri, with a population of about 14.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- First capital of Illinois
- Accessible only from Missouri
- Home to the Liberty Bell of the West
Location
Address: Kaskaskia Island, IL
Coordinates: 37.9214, -89.9161