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Famous Residents |
Completed in 1994, the Clark Bridge spans 4,620 feet across the Mississippi River, connecting Missouri and Illinois. This bridge has 44 steel cables and 10 feet wide concrete pylons to support its weight. This unique cable-stay bridge cost $118 million to construct. The name, Clark Bridge, honors the explorer, Captain William Clark, who crossed the Mississippi River in 1804 while exploring the Louisiana Purchase. Call (618) 465-6676 for additional information.
Visitors who are interested in the Mississippi River won’t want to miss the Melvin Price Locks & Dam. This fascinating river attraction was completed in 1994 after 16 years of construction. Visitors can see barges make their way up and down the river through the lock and dam system. There are free daily tours for visitors wanting to learn more about this lock and dam. From December to March, Bald Eagles are frequently spotted along the riverbank treetops or diving for food. Call (618) 462-1713 for more information about the Melvin Price Locks & Dam.
Built in 1887, Koenig House was given to the Alton Museum of History & Art and dedicated in 1994. This beautiful home features wonderful period furnishings and fine antiques. The first floor is furnished as it would have been by a family in the early 20th century. Koenig House also has exhibits that cover the Alton riverfront and the Lovejoy Print Shop. Koenig House is located at 829 East 4th Street. Call (618) 463-1795 for more details.
One of Madison County’s most notorious homes, McPike Mansion is believed to be a haunted house. Owner, Sharyn Luedke, claims that several ghosts occupy the residence. The 16-room mansion was built in 1869 for Henry McPike. This elaborate Victorian home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is located at 20th and Alby Streets in Alton. For more details call (618) 462-3348 or visit their website.
Founded in 1971, the Alton Museum of History and Art preserves Alton history and the accomplishments of its citizens. Exhibits include a classroom gallery, the Wadlow Room, a pioneer room, and much more. The Alton Museum of History & Art is located in Loomis Hall at 2809 College Avenue with additional exhibits across the street in Koenig House. Call (618) 462-2763 for more details.
Alton’s Armed Forces Museum is dedicated to the preservation of military history from all services and all eras. The museum has a large collection of vehicles, weapons, uniforms, equipment, and books. It also has one of America’s most diverse Army Jeep collections. Call the Armed Forces Museum at (618) 462-5237 for additional information.
Located on the Mississippi River bluffs, Christian Hill Historic
District is one of three Alton historic districts listed on the
National Register of Historic Places. Its homes date back to the 1830's
and include many architecturally unique buildings. Christian Hill has
a catholic church that was constructed in the 1850's as well as the old
state penitentiary. You will find the Christian Hill Historic District
within Broadway, Belle, 7th, Cliff, Bluff, and State Streets.
The National Great Rivers Museum is a 12,000 square foot museum located at the Melvin Price Locks and Dam in Alton. This museum illustrates the impact of the river on the area and its people through the exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors learn about river navigation, engineering, and water supplies. You can test your navigation skills by trying to steer a towboat through the lock via a computer simulator. Call (877) 462-6979 for more details.