Coles County is located in east-central Illinois, United States. It was established in 1830 and is named after Edward Coles, the second governor of Illinois. The county seat is Charleston, which is also home to Eastern Illinois University. The county covers an area of approximately 1,200 square miles and features a mix of rural and urban landscapes. It is known for its agricultural activities, with corn and soybeans being the primary crops. Additionally, Coles County has several parks and recreational areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and community events.