Mason County

Mason County has a long and illustrious history due to its location right along the Illinois River. In the 1600s, French explorers Joliet and Marquette set up camp near present-day Havana during their early explorations. The area's past is highly connected to Native American Indian communities; Havana is the home of Rockwell Mounds, the second largest Native American burial grounds dating back to about 200 A.D. Rockwell Mounds cover about two acres and stand 14 feet high. Later, in the days of Chicago gangster Al Capone, Havana was referred to as "Little Reno" because of the floating casinos that were established on their banks of the Illinois River.

Today, Mason County is known for wildlife and recreational sporting, including fishing and waterfowl hunting. The area is home to a number of wetlands as well as the Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, a 4,500-acre habitat for migrating waterfowl located 6 miles northwest of Havana on Illinois Route 78/97. Stop by the refuge to hike the wheelchair accessible nature trail, watch waterfowl, or fish in Lake Chautauqua. Also just outside of Havana is the Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge which features the Bellrose Nature Trail highlighting Spoon River plant and wildlife communities.

Six miles Northwest of Havana on Route 78/97 is Dickson Mounds, a branch of the Illinois State Museum. This is one of the premier on-site archaeological museums in the country offering a unique opportunity to explore the world of the American Indian in an awe-inspiring journey through 12,000 years of human experience in the Illinois River Valley.

Sixteen miles North of Havana near Manito is the Jake Wolfe Memorial Fish Hatchery, a must see for the entire family. See their excellent collection of old and exotic lures, their displays featuring the history of the area's waterways, and take a tour of the facility that concludes with a viewing tank of some of the biggest fish you have ever seen! Walk in or scheduled tours are available, but calling ahead is preferred. Also in Manito is Willett's Winery and Cellar, a family owned and operated winery nestled in a small town atmosphere. Stop by Willett's to enjoy local wine and live music or check out one of their very popular murder mystery dinner theatre performances.