Arcola, IL

Arcola is a small town located in Mc Henry County, Illinois. The population was 1,814 at the 2010 census. Arcola is known for its agricultural and industrial businesses, as well as its real estate market. The town's economy is based largely on agriculture and manufacturing. However, the recent development of the nearby Interstate 355 has led to an increase in residential and commercial real estate activity in Arcola.

The land that now comprises Arcola was first settled in 1836 by John and Nancy (Dunn) Smith. In 1851, James A. Wright purchased a tract of land that would become the heart of present-day Arcola. Wright built a sawmill on this property and began to develop the area around it into a small community called Wrightville. The name was changed to Arcola in 1872 when the railroad came through town and began to draw more residents to the area.

Arcola's early economy was based largely on agriculture and manufacturing; however, with the development of Interstate 355 nearby, residential and commercial real estate activity has increased in recent years. Today, Arcola is home to several businesses that are involved in manufacturing or distribution: J&J Welding & Fabrication Inc., American Axle & Manufacturing Co., Pinnacle Foods Inc., Kwik Trip Inc., Lighthouse Foods LLC., National Biscuit Co., United States Gypsum Co., Cargill Meat Solutions LLC., Illinois Tool Works LLC., Hormel Foods Corporation ( Chicago plant), Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM Grain Processing Facility), US Silica Holdings LLC (manufacturer of silicon products), ADM Agriprocessors LP (grain processing facility), Michelin North America Tire Operations LLC (manufacturer of tires), as well as several other smaller businesses. Additionally, there are many restaurants located throughout town: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar, Denny's Restaurant & Pancake House, IHOP Restaurant & Bar, McDonald's Restaurant & Drive-Thru Facility