Check out what happened on this day 131 years ago. It was an unusually warm day on February 19, 1888, when an F-4 tornado tore through the city leaving it in shambles. The tornado paved a 64-mile path across southern Illinois, killing roughly 30. More than 300 homes and 50 businesses in Mt. Vernon were damaged or destroyed leaving over 1,000 homeless. The Jefferson County Courthouse, itself, was left completely destroyed. The 1888 cyclone is still the 4th deadliest tornado in Illinois. However, the city of Mt. Vernon proved resilient. Within five years, Mt. Vernon doubled in population and tripled the number of businesses in town. . . . #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #onthisday

This week is going to be a busy one! Check out some of these awesome events that are happening this week in Mt. Vernon. . . . #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #mondaymotivation #eventsfortheweek

We are all smiles here because it’s FRIDAY! YAY! 🐶🎉 This weekend, take a moment to explore something new in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. . . . #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #TGIF #puppy #FridayVibes

Love is in the air, and we love our Mt. Vernon community! 😍 Whether you're coming here for a date with your significant other or your entire family, we hope to see you soon in Mt. Vernon, Illinois! 💝 Happy Valentine’s Day! 💝 #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #valentinesday #happyvalentinesday #heart #loveisintheair #love

If Mexican food makes your mouth water, you need to check out El Rancherito Restaurant & Cantina. Opened in 1995, El Rancherito was the first authentic Mexican restaurant to serve Mt. Vernon, Illinois. They offer delivery to all Mt. Vernon businesses, an outdoor patio, full bar, and a private meeting room. El Rancherito serves a delicious variety of food and drinks including cheese dip, burritos, nachos, chicken over rice, tamales, and more! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #mexicanfood #mexicanrestaurant

With a mission to celebrate creativity in both work and play, our community welcomes you to enjoy life with us! Check out our website for more information! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

Needing some ideas to help make this week the best week ever?! Check out what’s going on in Mt. Vernon! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip

Whether you look forward to a nice dinner out 🍷🍴, roses 🌹, or just enjoy the discounted chocolate afterward 🍫, Valentine’s Day can be celebrated by all in beautiful Mt. Vernon, Illinois! Check out some of our picks to help make this Valentine's Day the best one yet! Click the link in our bio! ⬆️ #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #valentinesday #happyvalentinesday #datenight

Join us for Cedarhurst’s second Upcycled Fashion Show! This evening invites regional artists to create wearable works of art out of non-traditional materials. For more information about this unique event, visit our website! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #cedarhurstcenter

Are you and your favorite furry friend traveling to Mt. Vernon soon? 🐱🐶 Mt. Vernon Comfort Suites is a pet-friendly hotel that offers several amenities including a heated indoor pool, hot tub, hot breakfast, and free WiFi. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #petfriendlyhotel #petowner #travelingwithpets

Everyone could use a touch of spring in their lives, especially after the past couple of months! We have just the event for you! The 31st Annual Midwestern Herb & Garden Show will be taking place on February 8th-10th. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #herbs #gardening #flowers

This week is jam-packed full of unique, one-of-a-kind events! Which one will you be attending? If you need more information about any of these events, please call (618) 242-3151. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

A new month means new opportunities to explore everything that Mt. Vernon has to offer! Make it a goal to check out something new in February. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

We Have A Winner! Congratulations to Mary Henry from Eureka, Illinois! Thank you to all who entered! We hope to see you all at the Herb & Garden Show on February 8th - 10th. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #herbandgardenshow #herb #garden

Cedarhurst Center for the Arts was featured on the Chicago Tribune’s list of 20 must-see cultural attractions in Illinois. Their latest installment includes 20 must-see cultural attractions in Illinois, with Cedarhurst at number 10 on the list. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts is nationally accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Only 3% of museums nationwide receive this honor. In honor of Mt. Vernon and Jefferson County’s 2019 Bicentennial, come check out Cedarhurst for yourself! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #cedarhurstcenterforthearts

From restaurants, events, boutiques, and hotels, we are ready for you to come and enjoy life with us! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

Business owners! Are you planning an event and would like some help spreading the word? We can help with that! Give our office a call at (618) 242 - 3151 for more information! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #eventplanning #businessowners

Whether you like your coffee iced, hot, or with a touch of flavoring, where do you like to get your favorite cup of joe? ☕ Let us know in the comments! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #coffee #coffeelover

On this beautiful Thursday, we would like to highlight Car Care Connections. Opening in 2016, Executive Director, Debbie Holsapple, and Vocational Director, Melissa Learned decided to open a unique car wash in Mt. Vernon that hires clients of who have various disabilities. The non-profit agency offers professional support services for those with mental disabilities, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, and the elderly community. They also offer a day treatment program, workshop setting and provide job coaches for clients. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #nonprofitorganization

We may be just off I-57, but Mt. Vernon has so much to offer! It’s time to explore Mt. Vernon, Illinois! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

The 31st Annual Midwestern Herb & Garden Show will be taking place next month on February 8th-10th. We would like to highlight one of Mt. Vernon’s biggest events by giving one lucky winner a weekend in Mt. Vernon on us. Our weekend package will include: 1. A night stay at Drury Inn & Suites Mt. Vernon for Saturday, February 9th 2. Dinner for two at Guero’s Mexican Restaurant 3. A bouquet of flowers from Lena’s Flowers & Things 4. A box of sweet treats from Farmhouse Bakery & Café 5. A coupon for 15% off at King City Books for books or coffee Check out our Facebook page for more details! **Winner Must Be Outside of Jefferson County, Illinois** #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #HerbandGardenShow

“The time is always right to do what is right.” - Martin Luther King Jr. Today, we remember the man who inspired the world by having a dream. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #MLKDay #martinlutherkingjr #MLK

Whether you are looking for a family-friendly event or an adult night out, check out what’s happening this week in Mt. Vernon! For more information about any of these events, call (618) 242 - 3151. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

Needing a place to rest your head? American’s Best Value Inn has a warm, cozy bed ready for you. This location offers 45 guest rooms, a business center, free hot breakfast, and free WiFi. All guest rooms also include a microwave and mini-fridge. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

The Appellate Courthouse in Mt. Vernon is the only courthouse, still in operation, where Abraham Lincoln, himself, argued a case in 1859. Lincoln successfully lowered the tax for the Illinois Central Railroad. Soon to be General of the Union Army, George B. McClellan, also witnessed Lincoln’s courtroom arguing that day. Visit the courthouse today and get your picture with the 9-foot-tall, bronze Abraham Lincoln statue on the front lawn. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation

As a hub for travelers, we are proud to host over 1,200 hotel rooms, more than 50 restaurants, and a creative Midwestern charm. With a mission to celebrate creativity in both work and play, our community welcomes you to enjoy life with us! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #weddingplanning #traveler #familytime #shopper #discover618

Who says that adults can’t have fun? In Mt. Vernon, we say that they can! Check one or all of the events that are happening this week in our beautiful community. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

Are you following us on social media? If you’ve answered no, don’t waste another minute! Follow, like, and subscribe to all of our platforms and stay up-to-date with the latest information. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

Can you smell the sweet aroma of BBQ being pulled off the smoker? It’s time to make a trip to A Fine Swine BBQ & Pizza. They have received awards such as 2017 Best BBQ in St. Louis and 2018 A-List Winner in St. Louis Magazine. They serve artisan pizzas featuring smoked BBQ and other quality ingredients. Other menu items include ribs, pulled pork, brisket, mac n cheese, a variety of BBQ sandwiches, desserts, and more! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning #BBQ #barbeque #pizza #afineswinebbqandpizza

Are you planning on saying “I Do” in 2019? 👰🤵💍 Make some plans in Mt. Vernon, Illinois! From food to hotels, let us take care of you and your guests on your big day. #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

Come, Stay, and Experience Everything That Mt. Vernon, Illinois Has To Offer! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

Eating healthy and getting enough exercise can be tough. . . Jobs, family, practices, housework, friends, and other commitments take up time and make living a healthy lifestyle a difficult task. Joining a gym may be just the motivation you need to get on the right track. . . Luckily, Mt. Vernon has several fitness facilities to choose from! Click the link in our bio for a full list! #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning

When you’ve traveled all day and need a place to rest your head, the Hampton Inn is ready to serve you! With 101 guest rooms available, the Hampton Inn in Mt. Vernon also holds a business meeting room, fitness center, and heated indoor pool. For more information, click http://bit.ly/2rIZbzO . #EnjoyMtVernon #SouthernIllinois #Missouri #Tennessee #Indiana #Arkansas #Kentucky #Iowa #Michigan #Wisconsin #ChicagoIllinois #BloomingtonIllinois #StLouisMissouri #EffinghamIllinois #PaducahKentucky # #tourism #MtVernonIllinois #family #roadtrip #carrides #familyvacation #businesstrip #convention #weddingvenues #wedddingplanning