Illinois ‘Most Destroyed’ Town is Way Past the Point of No Return

I admit that I don't always agree with assertions the internet makes, but in this case I do. A recent visit by a prominent YouTuber highlighted what he believes is the 'most destroyed' town in Illinois and he's not wrong. It is way past the point of no return sadly.

There's no better way to prove your point than sharing video and photo evidence of your theory. That's what Nick Johnson did on a recent drive through of one specific Illinois town. He said his videos and pictures were captured in late November of 2023, but frankly he could go to this Illinois town this week and find the same.

What Illinois town is he referring to as the 'most destroyed'?

Cairo, Illinois

Yes, this is just Nick Johnson's opinion, but it's shared by many others including Atlas Obscura which refers to this place as "The Abandoned Town of Cairo, Illinois". It's been referred to by Legends of America as "death by racism".

The Travel notes that Cairo, Illinois used to be a steamboat hub, but all of that is 'left behind' now. Those that still remain in Cairo, Illinois stand a very good chance of being a victim of violent crime sadly. Neighborhood Scout says that 1 in 50 in Cairo, Illinois will be involved in a violent crime which is horrific.

I would love to optimistic that something could be done to turn Cairo, Illinois around, but that would not be realistic. The point of no return for this small Illinois place was passed many years ago.