Cobden is a village in Union County, Illinois, United States, within the Southern Illinois region informally known as "Little Egypt.” The population estimate as of 2025 is 1,064. Cobden is regionally known for the mascot of its public school district, Cobden Unit School District #17. Known as the "Appleknockers,” Cobden's mascot has been regarded as one of the …Cobden is a village in Union County, Illinois, United States, within the Southern Illinois region informally known as "Little Egypt.” The population estimate as of 2025 is 1,064. Cobden is regionally known for the mascot of its public school district, Cobden Unit School District #17. Known as the "Appleknockers,” Cobden's mascot has been regarded as one of the most unique high school mascots in the country by several publications and public voting contests. Cobden and surrounding areas is widely known for its many wineries and orchards, most notably Flamm Orchards, along Old U.S. Route 51, and Rendleman Orchard in nearby Alto Pass, Illinois.