Visitors Guide to Batchtown
Calhoun County, Illinois

Eagles watching at the Winfield Ferry

Eagles watching at the Winfield Ferry

A short drive down County Road 6 in Calhoun county leads to the little village of Batchtown. Although Batchtown isn't directly adjacent to the Mississippi River, the nearby river gives the town its character with its proximity to the Winfield Ferry and two wildlife refuges. The village was originally named Richwoods, then Sam White's, before becoming Batchelderville, in honor of William Batchelder, a justice of the peace, merchant, and mill operator. When the post office was established in 1879, the town's name was changed to Batchtown. County Road 6 is very scenic as it winds through the Blue Ridge Bluffs and is worth the small detour in any season.

Explore the Meeting of the Great Rivers Region