US 54 and US 75 cross in the Western part of Yates Center.

The brother of the governor of Illinois purchased a great deal of land at what turned out afterwards to be in the geographical center of Woodson County. When the lection to select a county seat was held in 1875; the people of Woodson County wanted a county seat with water enough for a cool drink, for cooking, laundry and an occasional bath, and for it to be in the center of the county. They chose the land of that early land claimer who laid out a townsite and called it Yates Center naming it after himself. Not being selfish and desiring his land to be named the county seat; he gave the county the land for the city. Two lakes provide plenty of space for residents to enjoy water centered recreation. Yates Center Reservoir and the land surrouding it provide plenty of opportunity for fishing, boating, water skiing, hiking, hunting and rough camping. South Owl lake, nestled among the blackjack trees, is in a a beautiful setting for an exciting fishing experience or family picnic.

Hon. William Lacy