PIKE COUNTY, Ill. (WGEM) — A tri-state county is in the spotlight now more than ever, and politicians say it’s just what’s needed to boost tourism and the economy.
Pike County, Illinois, has seen a surge in tourism in the past year, and county officials expect more visitors in the coming years.
New Philadelphia recently became one of Illinois’ newest national parks, highlighting black history in Lincoln’s Land.
“The real story is the McWorters,” said Phil Bradshaw of the New Philadelphia Association. “They made it famous. It was this man, this slave, who bought freedom for himself and his children. And then he went out here in the wilderness and founded this little town.”
Bradshaw said the site attracted more visitors when it became part of the National Park Service nearly two years ago.
“You wouldn’t believe how many people want to visit each national park!” Bradshaw said.
Bradshaw said people from all over the country and the world are visiting the first city planned by an African American. And the visit doesn’t end there.
“They have to go to the Barry Library or Barry City Hall to get a stamp (for their passport),” Bradshaw said. “And people want that stamp!”
Bradshaw said tourism has almost doubled in the past year. He said the hope is to maintain that momentum and economic benefits.
“I hope that in the next few months we will have some trained people working there part-time,” Bradshaw said.
In Pittsfield, relatively new additions to Jellystone Park Pine Lakes have helped the local economy in many ways.
“After adding our 16 new cabins, two rental homes for this season and our brand new water slides and water park, our occupancy has increased tenfold,” said Bekah Wintjen of the site’s creative marketing team.
Jellystone Parks are found all over the country and have their own fan base, much like national park enthusiasts who want to check off every place on their bucket list.
Wintjen said they are always looking for fresh ideas, especially out of season.
“In September we have the country music festival and the arts and crafts show,” Wintjen said. “And we want to bring in fun things in the off-season as well, maybe a light show in December.”
Local officials say the disc golf course at Lake Pittsfield has also helped attract visitors.
Organizers also hope that money raised from a recent concert will be used to build a permanent stage for future festivals.
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