Andover is a small, historic village located in Henry County, Illinois, United States. Nestled in the northwestern part of the state, Andover is situated approximately 20 miles south of the Quad Cities and about 150 miles west of Chicago. This serene community is known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and strong sense of community.

Geographically, Andover lies within the fertile plains of the Midwest, characterized by rolling fields of corn and soybeans, which are typical of the region’s agricultural heritage. The village covers an area of about 1.1 square miles, offering a quaint and peaceful environment for its residents. Andover is part of the United States and falls under the jurisdiction of Henry County in the state of Illinois.

As of the latest census, Andover has a population of approximately 600 residents. This small population fosters a close-knit community where neighbors know each other and community events are a significant part of village life. Despite its size, Andover has a rich cultural heritage, with several historical landmarks and annual events that celebrate its history.

One of the most notable landmarks in Andover is the Jenny Lind Chapel, a historic church built in 1854 by Swedish immigrants. The chapel is named after the famous Swedish opera singer Jenny Lind and is a testament to the village’s deep-rooted cultural connections to Sweden. Another significant site is the Andover Lake Park, which provides recreational opportunities and a scenic spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

Andover does not host major universities or large corporations, but it is close to several educational institutions and businesses in the Quad Cities area. Nearby colleges include Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, and St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa. These institutions contribute to the educational landscape and provide opportunities for higher learning for residents of Andover.

The village is also known for its community spirit and annual events, such as the Andover Days festival, which brings together residents and visitors for a celebration of local culture, food, and music. These events play a crucial role in maintaining the village’s vibrant community life and preserving its unique heritage.

Climate and Weather Overview

Andover, Illinois, experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters. The village’s location in the Midwest results in significant temperature variations throughout the year, and the weather is influenced by a combination of continental and polar air masses.

Average Temperature, Precipitation, and Sunny Days

Below is a table that lists the average temperature, precipitation, and number of sunny days for each month in Andover:

Monthly Weather Details

January

January in Andover is characterized by cold winter weather, with average temperatures hovering around 22°F. Precipitation is relatively low, averaging 1.7 inches, primarily in the form of snow. There are typically about 12 sunny days. Snowfall is common, and residents can expect several snowy days throughout the month. Natural disasters such as blizzards can occur, occasionally disrupting daily activities.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Visit the Jenny Lind Chapel to learn about the village’s history.
• Outside Activities: Engage in winter sports like ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding.

February

February remains cold, with average temperatures rising slightly to 26°F. Precipitation averages 1.7 inches, and there are about 11 sunny days. Snowfall continues to be frequent, and the risk of severe snowstorms persists.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Explore local art galleries and attend community events.
• Outside Activities: Enjoy cross-country skiing and winter hiking on clear days.

March

March marks the beginning of spring with average temperatures increasing to 37°F. Precipitation is higher, averaging 2.3 inches, and there are about 14 sunny days. Snow begins to melt, and the town may experience occasional rain showers.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Participate in indoor gardening workshops and local craft fairs.
• Outside Activities: Take part in early spring hikes and birdwatching in the surrounding countryside.

April

April brings milder weather, with average temperatures reaching 50°F. Precipitation increases to 3.2 inches, and there are around 15 sunny days. The weather can be variable, with a mix of rain and occasional warm spells.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Join community theater productions and art exhibits.
• Outside Activities: Start gardening and enjoy outdoor picnics and nature walks in Andover Lake Park.

May

May is characterized by pleasant spring weather with average temperatures of 61°F. Precipitation averages 4.0 inches, and the town enjoys about 16 sunny days. The risk of severe weather such as thunderstorms increases towards the end of the month.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Visit local museums and historical sites.
• Outside Activities: Engage in fishing, hiking, and community sports.

June

June ushers in summer with average temperatures rising to 71°F. Precipitation remains moderate at 4.1 inches, and there are around 17 sunny days. The weather is generally warm, making it ideal for various outdoor activities.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Explore local libraries and attend summer reading programs.
• Outside Activities: Participate in barbecues, camping, and water activities in nearby lakes and rivers.

July

July is the warmest month, with average temperatures peaking at 75°F. Precipitation is higher, averaging 4.3 inches, and there are about 18 sunny days. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, though heat waves can occur.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Enjoy community events and indoor concerts.
• Outside Activities: Attend local fairs, go swimming, and enjoy outdoor festivals.

August

August remains warm, with average temperatures at 73°F and precipitation averaging 4.2 inches. The town typically experiences around 17 sunny days. Thunderstorms are possible, but the weather is generally stable and pleasant.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Take cooking or art classes.
• Outside Activities: Visit farmers’ markets, go hiking, and enjoy late summer picnics.

September

September sees temperatures cooling to an average of 65°F. Precipitation averages 3.4 inches, and there are about 16 sunny days. The transition to fall brings more stable weather and fewer thunderstorms.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Attend local theater productions and indoor sports events.
• Outside Activities: Participate in harvest festivals and scenic drives through the surrounding countryside.

October

October is characterized by mild fall weather, with average temperatures around 53°F. Precipitation averages 2.8 inches, and there are typically 15 sunny days. The risk of severe weather is low, making it a great month for outdoor activities.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Enjoy indoor craft workshops and library events.
• Outside Activities: Take part in fall hikes, pumpkin picking, and outdoor sports.

November

November brings cooler weather, with average temperatures of 39°F. Precipitation averages 2.6 inches, and there are about 12 sunny days. Early snowfall is possible, and the weather begins to turn wintery.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Start holiday shopping and attend local community gatherings.
• Outside Activities: Enjoy late fall walks and prepare for winter sports.

December

December marks the onset of winter, with average temperatures around 26°F. Precipitation averages 2.0 inches, and there are typically 11 sunny days. Snowfall is common, and the town may experience occasional snowstorms.

Recommended Activities

• Inside Activities: Participate in holiday events and indoor concerts.
• Outside Activities: Enjoy winter sports like sledding, ice skating, and snowboarding.

Andover, Illinois, offers a varied climate with distinct seasonal variations. Its humid continental climate provides residents and visitors with a range of activities suitable for each season, from winter sports and indoor events during the colder months to outdoor festivals and recreational activities in the warmer months. The village’s small population and scenic surroundings make it an inviting destination for those seeking a peaceful and community-oriented lifestyle.