Brownsville, Illinois, Jackson County: Once a bustling center of activity, Brownsville now stands as a silent witness to history, offering intriguing stories for those who seek them. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Jackson County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 37.7595° N, 89.3325° W
Elevation: Approximately 390 feet
Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
Established: 1816
Disestablished: 1843
Comments: Brownsville was the original county seat of Jackson County and thrived in the early 19th century. It was strategically positioned near the Big Muddy River, making it an important trade and transportation location.
The town’s decline began when a fire destroyed the courthouse in 1843, leading to the relocation of the county seat to Murphysboro.
Remains: Very little remains of the original town. The area is largely overgrown, with only scant foundations and remnants of structures that hint at its past existence.
Current Status: Brownsville is considered a ghost town. The site is mostly rural land, with no remaining active businesses or inhabitants.
Remarks: Brownsville’s rise and fall are typical of many early American settlements that were initially prosperous but faded due to changing economic and geographic circumstances. Its history continues to be a point of interest for local historians and those fascinated by the ebb and flow of pioneer life.
