West Frankfort is a city located in Franklin County, Illinois. It was founded in 1810 and was originally known as Frankfort, named after Frankfort, Kentucky. The city grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to the coal mining industry. West Frankfort was officially incorporated as a city in 1905.
Notable people from West Frankfort include country music singer David Lee Murphy and professional wrestler Randy Orton.
According to the US Census Bureau, the population of West Frankfort was 8,182 as of the 2010 census.
West Frankfort is located in southern Illinois, approximately 70 miles southeast of St. Louis, Missouri. The city is situated in the Shawnee Hills region and is surrounded by rolling hills and forests.
The economy of West Frankfort is primarily based on coal mining, healthcare, and retail. The city has seen a decline in coal mining in recent years but has diversified its economy to include other industries.
West Frankfort has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on its coal mining history. The city is home to several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its heritage and community spirit.