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Mattoon, IL

Frequently asked questions

Mattoon, IL

Mattoon is a city in Coles County, Illinois, United States. The population was 16,870 as of the 2020 census. The city is home to Lake Land College and has close ties with its neighbor, Charleston. Both are principal cities of the Charleston–Mattoon Micropolitan Statistical Area.

According to the 2021 census gazetteer files, Mattoon has a total area of 10.32 square miles (26.73 km²), of which 10.31 square miles (26.70 km²) (or 99.96%) is land and 0.00 square miles (0.00 km²) (or 0.04%) is water. Nearby rivers have been dammed to form Lake Paradise and Lake Mattoon south of the city.

One of the main factors determining the settlement of Mattoon and Coles County in general was the topography. Coles County straddled a timberline in the southern half and prairie in the north. The forested areas were primarily fed by two major rivers: the Embarras River in the east and the Kaskaskia in the west. The prairie, known as the "Grand Prairie", was generally wet and swampy. An early historian described the geography:

"Away from the timber to the north, the face of the country is generally quite level, broken only by long undulations. It is almost entirely prairie land in this part and was allowed to remain uncultivated until after the opening of the railroads. It was largely used for pasturage during this period, and often presented signs of great animation as the herds of cattle, under the care of their drovers, moved about over its grassy, slightly undulating surface."

Traditionally a bastion of manufacturing, Mattoon has lost several major plants in the last two decades. On December 18, 2007, the U.S. Department of Energy chose the city as the site of its FutureGen project, a zero-emissions coal-fueled power plant that was to make hydrogen and electricity while using carbon capture and storage.[9] Three years later, the city rejected the proposal after DoE announced its intention to retrofit an existing power plant in Meredosia instead of building a new one in Mattoon.

In 2000, Mattoon native Clyde D. Hood was indicted for the Omega Trust scam, a 1994–95 scam that brought in around $10 million and was one of the largest in U.S. history. Hood and accomplices bought businesses in the Mattoon area, including the Blue Bird Diner, a longtime family favorite in the small town.

Mattoon places a strong emphasis on the health and wellness of its residents. The Mattoon Rehabilitation & Health Care Center stands as a cornerstone in providing comprehensive healthcare services to the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Mattoon Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Mattoon 24-Hour Gym, Impact 3 Fitness, and Relentless Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Mattoon, such as the Douglas-Hart Nature Center Loop and Lytle Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Mattoon, IL are Peterson Park, Douglas-Hart Nature Center, and AMC CLASSIC Mattoon 10.

Population: 16,560 (2023). ZIP code: 61938. Area codes: 217. Elevation: 719 ft (219 m). Area: 10.32 sq mi (26.72 km²).

FAQs

What is Mattoon, IL famous for?

Nestled in the heart of Coles County, Mattoon, Illinois is a town rich in history and tradition. Originally settled in the mid-1800s as a railroad hub, Mattoon quickly grew into a bustling community, with industries such as coal mining, agriculture, and manufacturing fueling its economy. Over the years, the town has weathered many challenges, including devastating fires and economic downturns, but has always emerged stronger and more resilient. Today, Mattoon is a thriving city that cherishes its past while embracing its future, offering its residents and visitors a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.

Is Mattoon, IL a good place to live?

Living in Mattoon offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Mattoon, there are a lot of restaurants and parks. Many retirees live in Mattoon and residents tend to be conservative. The public schools in Mattoon are above average.

What is the history of Mattoon, IL?

Mattoon, city, Coles county, east-central Illinois, U.S. Mattoon lies near the Little Wabash River (impounded to form Lake Mattoon), about 45 miles (70 km) south of Champaign. Originally called Pegtown (for the stakes that marked lots for public auction), it was founded in 1854 at the junction of the Illinois Central and the Terre Haute and Alton railroads. The following year it was renamed for William B. Mattoon, a railroad official. 

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Mattoon

Mattoon Rehabilitation & Health Care Center 

Mattoon Parks and Recreation Department 

Mattoon 24-Hour Gym

Impact 3 Fitness 

Relentless Fitness

Douglas-Hart Nature Center Loop 

Lytle Park

Peterson Park

Douglas-Hart Nature Center

AMC CLASSIC Mattoon 10

Explore Mattoon

Niche

Britannica

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