About Avon, IL
Avon is located in Fulton County, Illinois. The village was settled in 1835 by Ira Woods and his family. Originally called Woodsville the name was changed in 1843 to Woodstock with the coming of a post office. Then, in 1852, the postmaster changed the name to Avon to avoid confusion. It is possible that the postmaster got the idea for the new name from the English town of Stratforf-upon-Avon. In its early years Avon was a key railroad stop for the transport of cattle to Chicago slaughterhouses. Avon's largest school is Avon High School and businesses include Spoon River Fs and Lawson Construction. Famous residents include radio and TV announcer Ken Carpenter. Area attractions include Avondale Lake, Avon Cemetery, and Little Swan Lake.