Rich in local history, Argyle Hollow (now occupied by the lake) was once part of the old stage route between Galena and Beardstown. Several times a week the high-wheeled cumbersome coaches with their double teams of horses rumbled through these beautiful hills and valleys. The region itself long was a source of coal, clay and limestone. In fact, in times past it was common for individuals to open and dig their own "drift mines" to supplement their personal incomes. The park contains a replica of one such operation. Several limestone quarries in the general area still are in operation today. In 1948, the state purchased the land from local farmers and homesteaders, erected the dam which created the lake and

dedicated Argyle Lake State Park to the citizens of Illinois. Today, whether your preference is viewing wildflowers and fresh foliage in the spring, picnicking, fishing and boating in the summer, appreciating the brilliant fall colors or ice skating, sledding and snowmobiling in the winter, Argyle Lake State Park is a great place to visit.