Area Information
The site of future Harrisburg was originally inhabited by a number of Algonquian peoples at the start of recorded history. European migration into the region began with the French around 1690. French settlement reached its peak in 1750, with English settlement beginning in 1790.
Harrisburg was plotted out shortly after Saline County was created in 1847. The city was named for James Alexander Harris, who had built a small farm in the area of the city in 1820. It became the county seat in 1859.
In its early years, Harrisburg was known for milling and coal mining. Coal remained the primary industry in Harrisburg until the 1980s, when the economy transitioned to a focus on industrial manufacturing. By the 2000s, Harrisburg was firmly established as the regional retail hub, with shopping and dining establishments providing employment for most residents.
Average high temperatures in Harrisburg climb to 89 degrees Fahrenheit in July, and average lows drop to just 21 degrees in January. The monthly precipitation average is 3.8 inches, with most falling during the spring and early summer. Annual snowfall averages 11.2 inches.
Six public schools offer education to local students. Higher education is available at many institutions that are an hour or less away. These include Southern Illinois University - Carbondale, John A. Logan College, the University of Southern Indiana, the University of Evansville and Southeast Missouri State University.
Harrisburg Medical Center serves the area's health care needs.
More than 270,000 acres of Shawnee National Forest lie to the south of Harrisburg. Lakes, ponds, streams and waterfalls can be found throughout the forest. You can travel this natural wonder by using 1,250 miles of roadways that extend throughout. Relax on any of 13 campgrounds and numerous picnic sites. Hike or ride a horse along the trails that wind through seven wilderness areas.
Trophy bass, enormous catfish and record-breaking sunfish are waiting for your lure in Harrisburg Reservoir. This 209-acre body of water is located directly north of the city, slightly east of Galatia. The varieties of bass found here include largemouth, white, striped and hybrid striped.
Shawnee Hills Country Club is a semi-private nine-hole golf course located right in town. This is a pleasantly challenging par-36 course that stays open for eight months each year.
We've only been able to list a few of the many amenities and attractions of our area. Why don't you come on by and check things out for yourself? Our United Country office is waiting to help you any way we can.
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