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Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial

Discover the humble Illinois origins of Wild Bill Hickok, the Wild West legend, at his birthplace memorial in Troy Grove.

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Visit the birthplace of Wild Bill Hickok, the legendary Wild West lawman and gunslinger, at this state memorial in Troy Grove, Illinois. The site features a monument with a plaque honoring Hickok's life and a bust of the man himself, offering a glimpse into the early life of a figure who shaped the American West.

A brief summary to Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Starved Rock State Park for hiking and scenic views.
  • Read the informative plaques to learn about Wild Bill Hickok and other historical figures connected to the area.
  • Visit during the weekdays for a quieter, less crowded experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial is located in Troy Grove, Illinois, easily accessible by car. From I-39, take exit 44 for IL-251 N toward Troy Grove. Follow IL-251 N for approximately 5 miles. Turn left onto Peru Street in Troy Grove. The memorial will be on your right at 207 Peru St. Parking is available curbside. There are no tolls on this final approach.

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Discover more about Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial

The Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial in Troy Grove, Illinois, marks the birthplace of James Butler Hickok, better known as Wild Bill Hickok. Born in 1837, Hickok's early life in this small Illinois town shaped the man who would become a legend of the American West. The memorial features a granite monument with a plaque dedicated in 1930, honoring Hickok's service as a scout and spy during the Civil War and his role as a frontier lawman. In 1999, a carved-log bust of Hickok was added to the park, providing a visual representation of the iconic figure. The memorial also acknowledges Prudence Crandall, an educator and women's rights advocate. While the memorial itself is small, it offers a chance to reflect on the life and times of Wild Bill Hickok and the broader history of the American frontier. Visitors can learn about Hickok's family, his early life in Troy Grove, and his eventual journey to the Wild West. The memorial also highlights Troy Grove's connection to the Underground Railroad and the anti-slavery efforts of Hickok's family.

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