[4] Carthage is best known for being the site of the 1844 murder of Joseph Smith, who founded the Latter Day Saint movement.

The first European-American settlers arrived in Carthage and in Hancock County in the first few decades of the 19th century.

The only person legally hanged in Hancock County, Efram Fraim, had been defended in his trial by roaming circuit attorney Abraham Lincoln.

The hanging is believed to have taken place near the current city sewer plant east of town, where a natural amphitheater allowed for a crowd to view the spectacle.

The jail has been restored to a close approximation of its appearance in 1844 and is now owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The regionally-noted botanist, philanthropist, and traveler Dr. Alice L. Kibbe called Carthage home.

Along with her personal collections, Carthage's Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum houses a variety of exhibits celebrating local and regional history.

The courthouse and the shops surrounding the square have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1986.

[8] In June 2006, development property on the east side of Carthage was voluntarily annexed into the city limits.

[13] The Legacy Theatre, which was renovated in 2010 and now seats 525 people, hosts many theatrical and musical events each year.

[15] From 1965 to 1989, Carthage was home to Robert Morris University–Illinois, which merged with Moser School of Business and relocated to Chicago.

(Hancock County Journal Pilot June 27, 2007) Some buildings are renovated for use by Carthage Veterinary Clinic.

[18] Memorial Hospital in Carthage opened its doors in 1949, named for the local heroes who brought victory in World War II.