Golconda, Illinois, USA
Home of the Pope County
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About Golconda, Illinois
Located on the
banks of the Ohio River in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest and
the county seat of Pope County, Golconda is an idyllic small town deeply
rooted in its rich history, but with an eye to the future. A plaque in
City Hall declares the entire town as "Historic Golconda", a designation
reserved for only a handful of localities in Illinois.
Nineteenth century architectural features remain prominent on the facade
of many buildings, reflecting back to the days when Golconda was a
thriving economic hub in the region with extensive river trade. Take a
walking tour of "Silk Stocking Row" and the elegant estates on the
bluffs overlooking the Ohio River, and envision a way of life that has
crossed a century of time untouched.
Thousands of visitors descend upon Golconda each year
to enjoy the many festivals and activities sponsored by local civic
organizations. Numerous antique and gift shops in the downtown area
offer a wide variety items sure to interest shoppers looking for unique
treasures.
The Golconda Marina is a
prominent attraction that brings recreational boaters and fisherman from
around the world to enjoy one of the most scenic parts of the Ohio
River. The Smithland Pool, created by the nearby Smithland Lock & Dam,
is the scene of many world-class fishing tournaments each year.
Golconda was the site of the former Lock & Dam 51, which was constructed
and operated by the Corps of Engineers as a navigational aid on the Ohio
River.
When the new Smithland Lock and Dam was
completed, Dam 51 was removed and the property transferred to the City
of Golconda. The former
Lockmaster Homes
were renovated and are now offered to the public for short-term
rentals.
Horseback riding, hiking and
cycling can be enjoyed throughout the local area. Golconda is located on
the National Cross Country Bike Trail, the Ohio River Scenic Byway, the
Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, and is the destination of the
annual River-to-River Relay.
These are just a few of
the offerings Golconda has to offer visitors to make your visit here
entertaining, enlightening, and enjoyable. With a variety of
lodging and dining facilities, Golconda is an ideal base from which to
explore the wonders of Southeastern Illinois.
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