Capital is a village located in Sangamon County, Illinois. With a population of around 2,500 residents, Capital is a small rural community nestled among the farmlands of central Illinois. While it may be small in size, Capital has plenty of history, charm and attractions that make it a great place to live, work and visit.
Population and Demographics
According to recent census data, Capital has a population of 2,457 residents. The village has seen steady population growth over the past few decades, increasing by over 15% since 2000. Capital has a higher percentage of senior citizens compared to the overall Illinois average. The median age in Capital is 43.5 years old. In terms of racial diversity, Capital is predominantly white, with 96% of residents identifying as Caucasian. Other races represented include Hispanic/Latino, African American and Asian.
History of Capital
Capital traces its history back to the early 19th century. The village was platted in 1837 by two settlers named Epley and Overton. It was originally named Epley Station after one of its founders. When Sangamon County was formed, Epley Station was chosen as the temporary county seat. The name was soon changed to Capital in honor of its status as the new county capital. After Springfield was named the permanent county seat in 1839, Capital remained a small farming community. The Sangamon Valley Railroad was built through Capital in the late 1800s, connecting it to Springfield and spurring modest growth. Capital was incorporated as a village in 1887.
Government
Capital operates under a Village President/Trustee system of government. The Village President and a board of six trustees are elected to four year terms. The current Village President is Mr. Richard Moss. Capital provides a range of municipal services to residents including police and fire protection, public works, and parks and recreation. For more information about Capital’s elected officials and government services, visit the official village website.
Economy and Major Employers
The economy of Capital is based around agriculture and related industries. Many residents work on family farms or are employed in agriculturally-focused occupations. Row crop farming, especially of corn and soybeans, dominates the areas surrounding Capital. Agriculture accounts for over 15% of jobs in the village. Other major employers in Capital include:
- Archer Daniels Midland – Operates a corn processing facility
- Cargill – Agricultural and food manufacturing company
- Capital School District #66 – Employs over 75 teachers and staff members
- Village of Capital – Employs over 20 public servants including police, fire, and public works
- Capital Health and Rehabilitation – Skilled nursing facility providing over 75 healthcare jobs
In recent years, Capital has also seen an increase in residents who commute to nearby Springfield for work. The state government provides many stable jobs and careers for people living within a 30 minute drive. For more on Capital’s major employers and economic outlook, visit the Capital Area Chamber of Commerce website.
Places to Visit
Despite its small size, Capital has a few attractions that make it well worth a visit including:
Capital City Park
This community park located near downtown Capital features playground equipment, ball fields, picnic areas, and a brand new splash pad. Visitors will also find hiking/biking trails, fishing spots at the adjacent lake, and a historic one-room schoolhouse that now serves as a museum.
Capital Performing Arts Center
Located inside Capital High School, this 500-seat theater hosts various performances and productions throughout the year including plays, musicals, and student group concerts.
Sangamon Valley Scenic Drive
This designated scenic byway passes through Capital while winding alongside the Sangamon River. The route showcases the area’s natural beauty and farmland.
Meisenheimer Memorial Hall
Built in 1924, this historic building once served as a community gathering place and hosted traveling shows, dances, church services, movies, and more. It is now used sparingly as an event rental venue.
In addition to enjoying these attractions, visitors to Capital often spend time hiking, fishing, antiquing at local shops, and exploring the quiet rural charm.
Annual Events
Capital hosts a few popular annual events that spotlight community traditions and bring residents together. These include:
- Capital Days Festival – A weekend summer festival with a parade, carnival, live music, food, contests, and fireworks.
- Sangamon County Fair – One of the area’s biggest county fairs held each July at the fairgrounds near Capital.
- Walk With the Spirits – A unique Halloween event where local volunteers dress up as prominent historical Capital residents and share stories while guiding groups on walking tours.
- Christmas in Capital – Community Christmas celebrations featuring a tree lighting, photos with Santa, caroling, vendor fair, and holiday parade.
For more details and full event listings, visit the Community Events calendar on the Village website.
Sports and Recreation
Residents of Capital have a few options when it comes to sports teams and recreational activities. Capital High School’s mascot is the Lions, and the school competes in IHSA Class 1A as part of the Sangamon Valley Conference. Popular sports include football, basketball, baseball, softball, track and field, and golf. CHS athletics have produced several state championships over the years. Keep up with the Lions at the CHS Athletics website.
For youth sports, the Capital Area Recreation Association offers seasonal leagues and programs in soccer, t-ball, baseball and basketball. Adults can join softball, golf and bowling leagues through the Capital Park District.
In addition to school and organized recreational sports, popular activities include fishing, boating and swimming at the Sangamon River, hiking on trails through town or at nearby state parks, and hunting at sites like the Sanganois State Fish and Wildlife Area.
Shopping, Dining and Lodging
As a small rural village, downtown Capital has a limited but charming selection of local businesses. The downtown area features a handful of casual eateries, a bowling alley, movie theater, antique shops, and essential stores like a small grocery market and pharmacy. For expanded shopping and restaurant options, most residents take the short drive into Springfield. There are no major hotel chains in Capital, but a few local bed and breakfast inns provide lodging choices.
Healthcare
Capital Area Hospital in Petersburg serves as the main medical facility for Capital residents. This 25-bed critical access hospital offers emergency care, diagnostic services, surgery and several specialty clinics. Those needing advanced healthcare services also utilize the two large hospitals in Springfield. Ambulance service is provided by the South Sangamon EMS. The Capital Area Rural Health Clinic provides basic medical care and occupational health services within the village.
Schools
Public education in Capital is provided by Capital Area School District #66. The district has one elementary school, one junior high school, and Capital High School. There are approximately 1,000 students enrolled across all grade levels. In addition to traditional academics including agriculture education, the district offers special education services and vocational training. The Capital mascot is the Lions. Post-secondary education is available nearby at University of Illinois Springfield, Lincoln Land Community College, and several private colleges.
Living in Capital
The cost of living in Capital is well below state and national averages, making it an affordable place to buy a home and raise a family. Housing ranges from classic farmhouses to newer suburban-style subdivisions. Rentals are limited within the village but ample in Springfield. The low crime rate, quality school district, and proximity to city amenities make Capital a safe and family-friendly small town. Residents cite the close-knit community and abundance of outdoor recreation as perks to living in Capital. The Village office, Chamber of Commerce and community Facebook group are helpful resources to get connected in Capital.
Moving to Capital
Those looking to relocate to Capital will find a welcoming community nestled in the heart of the Illinois countryside. The village offers an excellent quality of life with affordable housing, a low cost of living, highly-rated schools, low crime, and plentiful outdoor recreation. The proximity to Springfield provides convenient access to ample jobs, shopping, healthcare, entertainment and dining options. To learn more about moving to Capital, contact the Capital Area Chamber of Commerce or visit the Village of Capital website.