Thebes, Illinois History and Geology | Mississippi River | Historic Railroad and Thebes Courthouse

Located near the Shawnee National Forest near the tip of Southern Illinois is a Mississippi River town that is rich in history and geology. Just southeast of Cape Girardeau, Missouri the Mississippi takes a sharp bend and has cut through Thebes Gap. Known for its treacherous route for shipping, this part of the river is full of ancient geology that is fun to explore.

The Thebes Courthouse is also located here. Sitting high on a bluff this 170 year old structure built in 1848 has been claimed to have passed through its doors Dred Scott, Abraham Lincoln, and John A. Logan. A two-story structure with the courthouse on the top floor and the jail cells on the bottom. One of the cells has a dungeon like feel.

Thebes, Illinois is also home to the historic Thebes railroad. Started in 1902 this engineering marvel is a cantilever bridge that spans the Mississippi River and is the only railroad bridge between St. Louis and Memphis. The bridge was completed in April 1905 and still active today. During the construction of this bridge 25 people died.

Thebes Historical Society Website:
https://www.thebescourthouse.com/

Thebes Historical Society Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/ThebesCourthouse

source