Previous County    Next County     

Home| Services | Communities |  Counties |Newsletter | Feedback |Search | 

Daffodil fields in Union County

Union County Orchards

Union County, established in 1818, is located north of  Pulaski and Alexander counties. The Mississippi River borders it on the west. Union County has an area of 416 square miles. The county's population is  18,293.  Anna-Jonesboro is the county seat. Historically the economy in  Union County is  strong with an unemployment rate that is normally one of the lowest for the region. The retail establishments in the Ann-Jonesboro area have increased substantially since 1990. The county has a significant portion of citizens employed in the services and government sectors. The County's largest employer is Choate Mental Health, a state hospital, with over 400 employees. The public school system is also one of the larger employers. Manufacturers in the area include Transcraft, Holcomb & Son Welding, South Pass Products and Ensign Bickford Industries.

The climate is continental, typical of southern Illinois, with an annual temperature range of about 100 degrees. Maximum summer temperatures may reach 100'F and winter minimums can be zero or below. There are frequent changes in temperature, humidity and wind. Annual precipitation averages about 45 inches and is evenly distributed throughout the year.

The Shawnee National Forest makes up a significant portion of Union County and offers many opportunities for camping, hiking, horseback riding, birding, hunting and fishing. Union County is part of the National Trail of Tears.  Beautiful traditional barns remain a feature of the country side and combined with visits to antique stores, orchards and vineyards make an enjoyable family outing. [ Top of Page ]