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Show 306 Early Western Travels [ Vol 26 sonville, now, perhaps, the most flourishing inland village in Illinois, was first laid off; and it is but within the past five years that its present unprecedented advancement can be dated. 1" Its site is a broad elevated roll in the midst of a beautiful prairie; and, from whatever point it is approached, few places present a more delightful prospect The spot seems marked and noted by Nature for the abode of man. The neighbouring prairie is undulating, and the soil uncommonly rich, even in this land of fertility. It is mostly under high cultivation, and upon its northern and western edge is environed by pleasant groves, watered by many a " sweet and curious brook." The public square in the centre of the town is of noble dimensions, [ 52] occupied by a handsome courthouse and a market, both of brick, and its sides filled up with dwelling- houses, stores, law- offices, a church, bank, and hotel. From this point radiate streets and avenues in all directions: one through each side of every angle near its vertex, and one through the middle of every side; so that die town- plat is completely cut up into rectangles. If I mistake not in my description, it will be perceived that the public square of Jacksonville may be entered at no less than twelve distinct avenues. In addition to the spacious courthouse, the public buildings consist of three or four churches. One of these, belonging to the Congregational order, betrays much correct taste; and its pulpit is die most simply elegant I remember ever to have seen. It consists merely of a broad platform in die chancel of the building, richly carpeted; a dark mahogany bar without drapery, highly polished; and a neat sofa of die same material in a plain back- ground. The outline and proportion are perfect; and, like the doc- 1M Jacksonville, the seat of Morgan County, was laid out in 1825 on land given to the county lor that purpose by Thomas Armitt and James DiaL Tne town was largely settled by people from New England, who gave a characteristic tone to its society. Jacksonville is today the seat of several important state institutions.- ED. |
