


Discover Collinsville, Illinois - History, Attractions, and More!
Collinsville is a city located in Illinois, United States. It is situated in the northeastern part of the state, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of St. Louis, Missouri. The city has a population of around 25,000 people and covers an area of approximately 14 square miles (36 square kilometers). Collinsville is known for its historic downtown area, which features many preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city also has several parks, including the popular Collinsville Park, which offers hiking trails, a playground, and a lake for fishing and boating.
2. What is the history of Collinsville ?
Collinsville was founded in the mid-1800s as a small farming community. The town grew rapidly in the late 1800s with the arrival of the railroad and the establishment of several industries, including coal mining, brick making, and the manufacture of farm equipment. During this time, many German and Irish immigrants settled in Collinsville, bringing their skills and traditions with them. In the early 20th century, the city experienced significant growth and development, with the construction of new homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Today, Collinsville is a thriving community with a strong sense of history and tradition.
3. What are some popular attractions in Collinsville ?
Some popular attractions in Collinsville include:
* The historic downtown area, which features many preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
* Collinsville Park, which offers hiking trails, a playground, and a lake for fishing and boating.
* The Collinsville Historical Society Museum, which showcases exhibits on the history of the city and the surrounding area.
* The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, which features the remains of the ancient Cahokia Mounds civilization.
* The St. Louis Zoo, which is located just across the Mississippi River from Collinsville and offers a wide variety of animals and exhibits.
4. What is the climate like in Collinsville ?
Collinsville has a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The average high temperature in July, the hottest month, is around 86°F (30°C), while the average low temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 21°F (-6°C). The city experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an average of around 40 inches (100 cm) of rain and snowfall per year. Collinsville is located in a region prone to extreme weather events, such as tornadoes and ice storms.
5. What is the economy of Collinsville like ?
The economy of Collinsville is diverse and includes a mix of industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism. Some of the major employers in the city include:
* The Caterpillar Inc. plant, which produces heavy equipment and machinery.
* The Scott Air Force Base, which is located just outside the city limits and employs thousands of people.
* The St. Elizabeth's Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the community.
* The Collinsville Community Unit School District 10, which employs teachers and other educational professionals.
* Several small businesses and restaurants that serve the local community.
6. What is the education system like in Collinsville ?
The education system in Collinsville is overseen by the Collinsville Community Unit School District 10. The district operates several schools, including:
* Collinsville Elementary School, which serves students in grades K-5.
* Collinsville Middle School, which serves students in grades 6-8.
* Collinsville High School, which serves students in grades 9-12.
In addition to public schools, there are also several private schools and higher education institutions in the area, including:
* The Principia School, a private K-12 school that focuses on Christian Science principles.
* The Principia College, a private four-year college that offers degrees in a variety of fields.
* The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, which is located just outside the city limits and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs.



