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Economy Education Landmarks of Alton |
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Landmarks
This short section requires expansion.
Alton contains a number of landmarks. Among these are a statue of Elijah Lovejoy and the cable-stayed Clark Bridge, which is one of only very few of its type in the world . The Piasa bird painting has also been restored after been vandalized by some high schoolers. The statue of the once tallest man in the world, Robert Wadlow is another landmark of the town.
Education
Alton is home to both Marquette Catholic High School and its new public high school, Alton High School, complete with a three-court gymnasium.
The old high school is now the middle school. Saints Peter and Paul School is an elementary school with grades kindergarten through 8th and in 2008 will be celebrating its 100th anniversary. Economy
Alton was once a town of heavy industry and manufacturing. Laclede Steel established major steel manufacturing operations in the town.
Alton has transformed itself into a popular tourist retreat. Alton's location and history make it a popular tourist area for antique shopping and gambling aboard the Argosy Casino. During the winter, many visitors from across the country come to Alton for bird watching, as bald eagles roost on the bluffs along the Mississippi. Other Greater Alton attractions include Alton Marina, nine golf courses including Greater St. Louis' and Illinois' only Arnold Palmer designed and managed course, Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, Alton Square Mall, fine dining, night life, and bed and breakfasts including the "Best of Illinois" (llinois Magazine Readers Poll). Alton is also a popular venue for weddings, receptions, and honeymoons.
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