Gillespie, IL

Gillespie was built on the energy of the early 1900s coal boom, growing quickly as families moved in to work the mines and set down roots. That working-class heritage still runs deep today, and you can explore it firsthand at the Illinois Coal Museum right in the center of town. Gillespie also holds a fun piece of classic Americana as an early stop on Route 66. It’s a place with plenty of history and a relaxed, friendly small-town feel that makes newcomers feel right at home.