Cahokia brings together early settlement history, a political past, and architecture: a historical marker identifies the first permanent European settlement in Illinois, while the courthouse and Jarrot Mansion each contribute their own building histories.
The Historical Marker in Southern Cahokia
The historical marker stands in a small park at the intersection of IL 3 and IL 157 in the southern part of the city of Cahokia. It identifies Cahokia as the first permanent European settlement in Illinois. For orientation, it pinpoints a specific location by naming two roads; the statement itself refers to the city's history. The courthouse and Jarrot Mansion each add a distinct construction or use history to this perspective.
The Cahokia Courthouse: Home, Courthouse, and Headquarters
The Old Cahokia Courthouse is a historic site with significant potential on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. The Cahokia Courthouse was originally built around 1740 as a French residence. In 1793, it became a courthouse and served as the political center of the Northwest Territory for 20 years. This sequence shows how the building's function changed: from residential use to serving as a courthouse, and then to its role in territorial politics.
Another clearly defined period of use followed, from December 1803 to the spring of 1804: Lewis and Clark used the courthouse as their headquarters. This episode can be distinguished from its 20-year political role. Thus, the same building is associated with both a longer institutional role and a limited period of use—two different ways of approaching its history.
The Jarrot Mansion and Its Architectural Style
Construction of the Jarrot Mansion began in 1807. It is one of the earliest surviving masonry buildings in Illinois. Its architecture follows the American Federal style rather than the French Colonial style common in the region. This contrast makes the mansion a distinct architectural topic within Cahokia's history: while the courthouse stands out for its changing functions, the Jarrot Mansion draws attention to its construction date and style.
This brings two distinct questions together: How was a building used over time, and what sets its architecture apart from a regional tradition? Those interested in political history will find specific dates of use at the courthouse; those who focus on architectural styles can compare the Jarrot Mansion's American Federal style with the widely found French Colonial style.
Planning a Visit to the Jarrot Mansion
The Jarrot Mansion is currently closed for restoration work. It opens only occasionally for special events, including the “Autumn Open House” in September and Fete du Bon Vieux Temps, also known as the “Festival of the Good Old Days,” on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday. Check event dates before your trip if you plan to visit during one of these openings.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Belleville, O'fallon, Mascoutah, Dupo, Fairmont City, Fairview Heights, Swansea, Shiloh.
Go to the main travel overview: St. Clair.
