Cass: Prairie, Nature, and Lincoln History

At Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area, old-growth forests, agricultural land, grasslands, and rare hill prairie converge. This mosaic provides habitat for diverse wildlife and makes nature an important part of a trip to Cass. There are also places for wildlife viewing, trails, and historic traces, offering different ways to shape your stay.

Prairie and Trails

Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area combines diverse landscapes with ways to spend time outdoors. Mountain bikers will find 24 miles of trails there; there is also a three-mile trail for hiking and jogging. The two routes differ considerably in length and use. Nearly 90 species of native Midwestern plants grow in Rexroat Prairie, adding a distinct botanical feature alongside the forest and grassland.

Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge also focuses on nature and wildlife. Activities there include fishing, wildlife viewing, wildlife photography, environmental and wildlife interpretation, and environmental education. Evan’s Prairie in the refuge has a 0.25-mile accessible trail. Individual programs may change, so check the details before your trip if you plan to take part in a specific offering.

The land and water areas of Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge have a seasonal access period: they are open daily from sunrise to sunset from February 1 through October 15. The land and water areas of Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge are subject to seasonal closures after October 15. Sanganois State Fish & Wildlife Area has public boat ramps for canoeing and kayaking; seasonal restrictions also apply there. If you are planning your trip around one of these activities, factor the applicable access rules into your plans.

Beardstown: The River and Lincoln History

Beardstown is located on the Illinois River, which plays an important role in the community’s economy and history. At Beardstown River Look, a covered overlook sits a few blocks west of downtown. Floodwalls prevent access to the river itself. For a different historical perspective, visit the courtroom where Abraham Lincoln defended Duff Armstrong in the famous Almanac Trial: it is still used as a courtroom. The Old Lincoln Courtroom & Museum is also among the attractions along the Looking for Lincoln Heritage Trail.

Beardstown’s museums focus on different subjects. The Beardstown Historical Museum houses objects and artifacts relating to the community, the Central Illinois region, and Native American heritage. The River Museum features riverboat models and modern and historic equipment used to work on the Illinois River, including ice saws, fishing and hunting equipment, and accessories for boats and barges. The Looking for Lincoln Story Trail includes more than 200 roadside interpretive exhibits and statues in over 50 communities in the Heritage Area; there are stops in Beardstown and the surrounding area, too.

Other historical connections can be found at various locations around town. Abraham Lincoln was elected captain during the Black Hawk War at Schmoldt Park. The Beardstown Grand Opera House was originally built in 1872 and rebuilt after a tornado nearly destroyed it. The owners and volunteers from the city took part in the effort.

Festivals Throughout the Year

Events add a seasonal framework to trip planning. The Cass County Fair takes place annually in summer at the fairgrounds in Virginia. Virginia BBQ is an annual, citywide event held during the first full week of June, featuring food, a carnival, flea markets, and entertainment. In Arenzville, a two-day Burgoo Festival is held in September to benefit community organizations; this annual tradition has been going on for more than 100 years.

In October, Rexroat Prairie Log Cabin Days offers demonstrations, food, and other events. Christmas in Virginia takes place every year on the first weekend in December and includes a parade with Santa Claus, food, markets, and activities for children. Beardstown also hosts an annual Fall Fun Festival featuring music, a car and motorcycle show, a carnival, and a parade. Exact dates and programs may change. Check the details for each event before planning your trip around it.

When planning your trip, distinguish fixed event dates from the seasonal access rules for the land and water areas of Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge and Sanganois State Fish & Wildlife Area: Virginia BBQ takes place during the first full week of June, Burgoo in September, and Log Cabin Days in October. The Cass County Fair is described as a summer event, with no specific date given. If you are more interested in Lincoln history, museums, or river connections, Beardstown offers several different points of interest, while the prairie and trails appeal to other travel interests.

Discover more destinations: Beardstown, Bond County, Hancock County, Williamson County, Gallatin, Johnson County, Kankakee County, Wabash County

For the main travel overview: Illinois.