Join host Joe and local historian John as they wander through the woods and stories of Black Hawk State Historic Site in Rock Island, Illinois. From ancient Sauk trails to Civilian Conservation Corps craftsmanship, this episode uncovers the legacy of Black Hawk, the land’s sacred roots, and a few unexpected connections—including Abraham Lincoln’s cameo in the Black Hawk War. Packed with humor, history, and heartfelt banter, it’s a nostalgic trek through one of Illinois’ most storied landscapes.
Official Site of Black Hawk State Historic Site – Offers details on the park’s history, trails, Watch Tower Lodge, and the John Hauberg Museum
BlackHawkPark.org
Wikipedia: Black Hawk State Historic Site – Provides a comprehensive overview of the site’s historical significance, including Saukenuk village and Black Hawk’s legacy
Black Hawk State Historic Site on Wikipedia
Enjoy Illinois Travel Guide – Covers the site’s transformation from Native settlement to amusement park to historic site, with rich storytelling and visuals
Discover the History of Black Hawk State Historic Site
Living New Deal Archive – Details the Civilian Conservation Corps’ work on Watch Tower Lodge and the site's New Deal-era development
Watch Tower Lodge – Living New Deal
Visit Quad Cities – Offers visitor info and highlights about the museum, lodge, and surrounding nature preserve
Visit Quad Cities – Black Hawk State Historic Site
Wikipedia: Abraham Lincoln in the Black Hawk War – Explores Lincoln’s brief military service and connection to the 1832 conflict
Lincoln and the Black Hawk War
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