Alexander County
We are the southernmost county in Illinois. Our county seat is Cairo.
We've Been Here
Since 1819
Alexander County was organized out of Union County in 1819. It was named for William M. Alexander, a physician who practiced in the town of America (the first county seat).
Alexander became Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives in 1822. The county seat was moved to Unity in 1833, then to Thebes in 1843, and finally to Cairo in 1860.
Contact Us
Have a question or concern? Contact us today!
in our County
Townships
Alexander County
is water
Explore Communities
in Alexander County
On the east side of the Mississippi, East Cape Girardeau is the Illinois side of Cape Girardeau.
Thebes is known for being one of the places where president Abraham Lincoln practiced law. The courthouse where he practiced still stands today.
Located right along route 3, McClure is known for its strong wheat farming community.
Olive Branch was once considered to be the "Goose capital of the world."
Stay Up to Date
Alexander County State's Attorney
"I will always do my very best for the people of Alexander County."
– Zachary Gowin,
State’s Attorney
News and Articles
Find out recent news and interesting articles.
Do you have a question?
Call or visit us.
City Council:
2000 Washington Ave
Cairo, IL 62914
United States
General Hours:
Monday–Friday:
8:00am–12:00pm, 1:00pm–4:00pm
Alexander County forms the southern extremity of the State of Illinois and is bounded by the Mississippi River on the West and South, by the Ohio and Cache Rivers on the East, and by Union County on the North.
Useful Links
Copyright © 2024 Alexander County Developed by James Arthur Design Co