Origins of Cass County place names

    From time to time I am asked about the origin of Cass County place names, so let’s take a look.
    Arenzville takes its name from founder Francis Arenz. A native of Prussia, Arenz came to the U.S. in 1827, making his way to Central Illinois. He launched the area’s first newspaper, served in the Illinois legislature and was a successful businessman.

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