Things to do in Chester
Bridge at Chester over the Mississippi River
During the late 1930's, Chester civic leaders and businessmen conceived an idea to construct a bridge across the Mississippi River connecting the States of Illinois and Missouri with a highway system. The project was a complicated one. A permit had to be obtained from the Federal Government to cross a federal waterway. United State Senators C.W. “Runt” Bishop and Scott Lucas played an integral part in obtaining the permit, as well as being liaison between the City of Chester and Washington, D.C. Call (618) 826-2721 for more information.
Bud Cohen Home
The Cohen Home is a beautiful historical site located on Harrison Street overlooking the Mississippi River. Its unusual blue storm windows make it a very visible landmark for boats on the river and travelers approaching the Chester Bridge from Missouri. Built in 1855, it was the home of the William Cohen family who lived there until the youngest son, Bud, died in 1983. The home is now owned by the city of Chester and operated by a committee of volunteers. Call (618) 826-2721 for more information.
Chester Square
At the turn of the 20th century, this location was home to the Wiebusch Saloon frequented by J. Wellington "Wimpy" of Elzie Segar's Popeye cartoon strip. Chester Square was dedicated by the citizens and (former) Mayor Frank Derickson of Chester on December 3, 1993. Located within Chester Square is an elevated octagon Vixen Hill Gazebo, manufactured in Elverson, PA, measuring 8 feet to a side. The gazebo has been the site of several weddings and also provides a perfect backdrop for occasional Chester Municipal Band performances. Call (618) 826-2721 for more information.
Covered Bridge over Mary's River
The Covered Bridge was built in 1854 by Wilhelm Misselhorn from Germany. It was in continuous service from 1854 to 1930 and renovated by the State in 2005. It has a 90-foot span and constructed as part of a toll road between Bremen and Chester; the original timber from native white oak timbers in a Burr arch design has been preserved. It is the only bridge of its kind left in Southern Illinois. Call (618) 826-2721 for more information.
Segar Park
Popeye Statue at Elzie C. Segar Memorial Park honors Chester native and Popeye creator. It is said that many of Mr. Segar's characters were created from experiences with some people of Chester. The Chester Bridge, built in 1942, is the only bridge between St. Louis and Cape Girardeau. Call (618) 826-2721 for more information.