Welcome to The Village of Brooklyn
312 S. 5th St. Brooklyn, IL 62059 | Office: 618-271-8424
Brooklyn (also known as Lovejoy), is a village in St. Clair County, Illinois, United States. Located two miles north of East St. Louis, Illinois and three miles northeast of downtown St. Louis, Missouri. Brooklyn is the Oldest Black Incorporated Town in the United States. It was founded by freed and fugitive slaves from St. Louis, led by “Mother” Priscilla Baltimore in the period of 1829 to 1839. The town was incorporated in 1873.
Mayor Trenton C. Atkins
The Village of Brooklyn is located in between The City of Venice and East Saint Louis, Illinois. Our mission is to bridge the gap between municipal entities and local community Members through effective communication and engagement strategies. We offer services that include Community Outreach, Workforce Development, Community Service and Volunteer work all designed to foster trust, transparency, and cooperation between the municipality and it's residents. Our team is very excited about the change in revitalizing our Historic Town and the Community Engagement to come. The Village of Brooklyn welcomes new ideas and is here to support you every step of the way.
A Celebration of Brooklyn’s Legacy, Love, and Community
Step into history, culture, and connection at There’s No Place Like Reunion — a powerful and joyful gathering that honors Brooklyn’s incredible legacy as the oldest Black town in the United States. This cherished community tradition brings together past and present residents in a vibrant celebration of heritage, pride, and unity.
Join us for a day filled with music, food, storytelling, art, and cultural showcases that pay tribute to the rich tapestry of Brooklyn’s history. Whether you grew up on these streets or are discovering their spirit for the first time, this event is your invitation to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and honor the strength and resilience that define this historic town.
✨ Highlights Include:
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A community picnic
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A heritage walk through historical landmarks
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Community tributes in an Ad Book
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Family-friendly activities and games
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Delicious soul food and local vendors
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Reunion moments for Brooklyn alumni and longtime families
This is more than an event — it’s a homecoming, a tribute, and a celebration of everything that makes Brooklyn a symbol of Black excellence and enduring community spirit.

Address
312 S 5th St.
Brooklyn, IL 62059
Phone
Office: 618-271-8424
Fax: 618-271-7910
Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00am - 12:00pm
1:00pm - 4:00pm
@The Village of Brooklyn