Granite City is a city located in Madison County, Illinois, United States. It was founded in 1896 by the Granite City Steel Company, which established a steel mill in the area. The city was named after the granite rock that was used to construct the steel mill. Over the years, Granite City has grown into a bustling industrial city with a strong manufacturing and shipping industry.
Granite City has been home to several notable figures, including professional athletes, musicians, and politicians. Some of the interesting people from Granite City include baseball player Warren Spahn, musician John Hartford, and former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar.
The population of Granite City has fluctuated over the years, with a peak population of over 36,000 in the 1970s. As of the latest census data, the population is estimated to be around 29,000 residents.
Granite City is located in southwestern Illinois, near the Mississippi River. The city is situated on flat terrain with some rolling hills and wooded areas. The climate in Granite City is characterized by hot summers and cold winters.
The economy of Granite City is largely driven by the manufacturing and shipping industries. The city is home to several major employers, including the Granite City Steel Works, which provides jobs for thousands of residents. In recent years, the city has also seen growth in the healthcare and retail sectors.
Granite City has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on its industrial history. The city is home to several museums and historical sites that showcase its past, as well as a thriving arts community. Residents of Granite City enjoy a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.