The Dred Scott Decision, handed down from the Supreme Court in response to a suit filed by the Black servant of a Rock Island resident, pushed the country toward Civil War by stating that slaves were property and therefore not entitled to the rights of U.S. citizens. Rock Island Arsenal accommodated one of the most important Northern military prisons of the Civil War.
American bald eagles winter in the Rock Island area. Prime viewing time is in January and February.
Things to Do
Black Hawk State Historic SiteMississippi River Visitor Center