Boomtowns are built on optimism; ghost towns are what's left when it runs out. Welcome to Dutton. Dutton is a ghost town in New Salem Township, Pike County, in the U.S. state of Illinois. The town derived its name from David Dutton, a county official.
Pike County holds 2 documented ghost towns, including Griggsville Landing — Dutton keeps them company on the map.
The story of Dutton
Illinois ghost towns cluster around the old lead district and the coal fields that fed Chicago.
Dutton is a ghost town in New Salem Township, Pike County, in the U.S. state of Illinois. The town derived its name from David Dutton, a county official.
What you'll find today
The on-the-ground condition of Dutton is unverified — it's listed here with unknown status. That could mean standing buildings, or an empty field. Go prepared for either, and consider sharing what you find so the record improves.
Nobody has confirmed the access situation, so treat any visit as reconnaissance: verify land ownership first, and be ready to admire from the road.
Getting there
Here's the honest truth: access to Dutton is unverified. We couldn't confirm whether the site sits on public land, private property, or something in between — so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting, and respect private property at all times. The mapped point for Dutton is roughly 39.6744, -90.7997 — use it as a starting point and cross-reference a current topographic map before leaving pavement.
Good to know
Ghost-town etiquette is simple: take only photographs. Removing artifacts is illegal on public lands and disrespectful everywhere else — and on federal land it can be a serious offense.
Survey Map
Approximate position — verify access locally before visiting
Dutton FAQs
01Where is Dutton located?
02What county is Dutton in?
03What is the history of Dutton?
04What remains at Dutton today?
05Can you visit Dutton?
Sources: account based on Wikipedia (“Dutton, Illinois”), CC BY-SA.
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