Hill's Fort, a War of 1812-era fort on the western perimeter of the Territory of Illinois, stood six miles southwest of this location. It was constructed around cabins built by Isaac Hill for his survey party, and these improvements were sold to David White in 1811. On September 9, 1814, a battle occurred just outside the fort between 13 Illinois rangers and civilians and a large party of approximately 80 Indians. John Journey, Robert Lynn, William Grotts, and William Prewitt were killed in the ambush. Thomas Higgins put himself in harm's way to save the life of his wounded comrade, William Burgess, gaining notoriety as an Indian fighter. Lydia Pursley grabbed a horse and a gun and rode out to aid the injured Higgins, and spurred by her action others joined her in the successful rescue of Thomas Higgins. Bond County was formed in 1817, with Hill's Fort serving as the original county seat.