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Fort Armstrong Historic Site: Echoes of the Frontier

Explore the site of Fort Armstrong on Rock Island, where the echoes of the Black Hawk War and frontier history resonate along the Mississippi River.

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Visit the site of Fort Armstrong, a 19th-century military outpost on Rock Island, Illinois, that played a key role in the Black Hawk War. Explore the reconstructed blockhouse and scenic riverfront, and learn about the fort's impact on westward expansion and Native American relations.

A brief summary to Fort Armstrong Historic Site

  • Fort Armstrong Rd, Rock Island, Illinois, 61201, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid crowds.
  • Check for local events or reenactments that may offer a more immersive historical experience.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons when eagles and hawks can be spotted.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Fort Armstrong Historic Site by car, take Interstate 74 toward Moline. Merge onto I-280 W and continue for several miles. Take exit 1B for US-67 N toward Rock Island. Continue straight on US-67 N, which will turn into 5th Avenue. Follow 5th Avenue until you reach the intersection with 23rd Street, then turn left. Continue on 23rd Street until you reach Fort Armstrong Road. Turn right onto Fort Armstrong Road, and the site will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.

  • Public Transportation

    For public transportation, take the Metrolink transit service to Moline. From the Moline Transit Center, catch the Route 20 bus towards Rock Island. Get off at the stop on 5th Avenue and 23rd Street. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to Fort Armstrong. Head north on 23rd Street and then turn right on Fort Armstrong Road to reach the historic site. Please check the local bus schedule for exact times as they may vary. A single fare on QC Public Transit is $1.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    If you prefer a more direct option, consider using a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) from your current location in Rock Island. Simply input 'Fort Armstrong Historic Site' or use the address 'Fort Armstrong Rd, Rock Island, IL 61201' as your destination. The cost will vary depending on your starting point, but a short trip within Rock Island will likely cost between $8 and $15.

Unlock the Best of Fort Armstrong Historic Site

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Discover more about Fort Armstrong Historic Site

Fort Armstrong Historic Site marks the location of a significant 19th-century military fort that once stood on the western tip of Rock Island. Established in 1816, the fort was part of a chain of defenses erected by the U.S. government after the War of 1812. Its primary purpose was to secure the Mississippi River, protect American settlers, and manage relations with Native American tribes in the region. The fort was strategically positioned to control traffic on the Mississippi River and monitor the nearby Sauk and Fox settlement of Saukenuk. Fort Armstrong served as a military headquarters during the Black Hawk War of 1832, a conflict sparked by tensions between settlers and Native Americans. The Treaty of Fort Armstrong, signed in 1832, officially ended the Black Hawk War, with the Sac and Mesquakie tribes ceding their lands east of the Mississippi River to the U.S. Although the original fort was abandoned in 1836 and later destroyed by fire, a replica of one of the original blockhouses was constructed in 1916 to commemorate the fort's centennial. Today, visitors can explore this reconstructed blockhouse, view historical markers, and enjoy the picturesque riverfront setting. The site offers walking paths, opportunities for birdwatching, and scenic views of the Mississippi River, making it a destination for history enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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