Chester, Illinois is sited on a bluff high above the Mississippi River, with two long valleys on either side of the downtown, built along the ridge line.
Buildings sit right on the edge of the bluff, such as this church.
I am amazed at how close the church is to the edge of the hill.
I was surprised at how little development there was around the courthouse, which apparently was demolished for a 1970’s modern building.
Below is a building from the 1850’s, presumable one of the oldest buildings in the town.
The jail below is a remarkable little structure that has a castle-like look to it.
The downtown was quiet on Sunday afternoon, but the buildings are relatively intact, if a bit worn.
The Cohen House and the Stone House date from the mid 1800’s and good examples of regional architecture of the period. Mark Twain mentions the windows of the Cohen House as a landmark used by river pilots.
Thanks, Connie. I will have to find the Cohen House the next time I’m in town. I hope you all survived the severe weather safely.
I wonder if the shutters and door of the jail are iron (to repel bullets)? They sure look like it in the photo.
I found it! For a street view, enter 37.904192, -89.828593 on Google Maps. It is the home of the Randolph County Museum and History Society.