1. The Rock Island Lines Railroad: A Music Legacy
Did you know the Rock Island Lines railroad inspired a famous folk song? “Rock Island Line” was first recorded in the 1930s and has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Cash. This historic railroad played a pivotal role in the region’s development and left a mark on American music history.
The Rock Island Line is a fascinating piece of American folk music with historical ties to the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad. Here’s what you need to know:
- Origins and Lyrics:
- The song “Rock Island Line” first appeared as a folk song around 1929. It ostensibly refers to the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad.
- The earliest known version was written by Clarence Wilson, a member of the Rock Island Colored Booster Quartet (a singing group of railroad employees) in Little Rock, Arkansas.
- The lyrics describe various people and activities associated with the railroad yard.
- The chorus goes:“The Rock Island Line is a mighty good road
The Rock Island Line is the road to ride
If you want to ride, you gotta ride it like you find it
Get your ticket at the station for the Rock Island Line”
- Recordings and Adaptations:
- Lead Belly, the famous folk singer, recorded a version of the song in the 1940s.
- Lonnie Donegan, an English singer, later adapted it and recorded it for an English company. His version sold hundreds of thousands of copies in the U.S. and England.
- The song has been covered by many artists, each adding their own variations to the verses.
- Legacy:
- The essence of the Rock Island Railroad was captured in the famous opening number of the musical “The Music Man”.
- Johnny Cash also recorded a song called “Rock Island Line” in 1957, further contributing to its legacy.
- Trivia:
- The Rock Island Railroad served 14 states with nearly 8,000 miles of main track.
- In 1963, it had approximately 27,000 freight cars and 650 passenger cars.
2. The Phantom Forest of the Mississippi River
Beneath the surface of the Mississippi River near the Quad Cities lies a submerged ancient forest. Dating back over a thousand years, this underwater woodland has intrigued scientists and divers alike. It’s a hidden natural wonder that few locals are aware of.
3. Moline’s Secret Weapon: The Butter Cow Carver
Not widely known, Moline is home to one of the Midwest’s most skilled butter cow carvers. Each year, this anonymous artist sculpts intricate designs for the local fairs, keeping the tradition alive with their remarkable talent and dedication.
4. A Presidential Rest Stop
Abraham Lincoln reportedly made a stop in Rock Island during his 1858 Senate campaign against Stephen A. Douglas. Although not heavily documented, local lore celebrates this brief visit as a brush with history, adding to the Quad Cities’ rich tapestry of notable events.
5. The Vanishing Hitchhiker of Route 67
A spooky local legend tells of a phantom hitchhiker who appears on Route 67. According to the tale, drivers pick up a young woman who mysteriously disappears from their car without a trace. This ghost story has been passed down for generations, adding a touch of eerie folklore to the area.
The Vanishing Hitchhiker is a classic urban legend that has captivated storytellers for generations. Here’s the eerie tale:
- The Story:
- A lone driver encounters a mysterious female hitchhiker late at night on a moonlit road.
- The hitchhiker accepts the ride but inexplicably disappears during the journey.
- Upon reaching the hitchhiker’s stated destination, the driver learns that she has been dead for years.
- Origins and Evolution:
- Versions of this legend date back centuries, with earlier European stories involving travelers on horseback.
- In North America, the vanishing hitchhiker became a staple of folklore.
- The New Testament even contains a prototype of the story (Acts 8:26-39), where an Ethiopian chariot driver picks up the Apostle Philip, who baptizes him and then vanishes.
- Variants and Haunting Locations:
- While the specifics vary, the core theme remains consistent: a spectral hitchhiker who defies the laws of reality.
- Some versions tie the hitchhiker to specific locations, like Route 66, where ghostly figures continue to haunt the roadside.
Remember, when driving late at night, be cautious of unexpected passengers—you never know who might vanish into thin air!
6. The Unusual Gravity Hill in LeClaire
In the town of LeClaire, there’s a spot known as Gravity Hill where cars appear to roll uphill. This optical illusion has puzzled visitors for years and remains one of the Quad Cities’ most curious attractions. It’s a quirky stop that defies the laws of physics and fascinates all who experience it.
Gravity hills, also known as magnetic hills, are fascinating natural phenomena found in various places around the world. Le Claire, Iowa, boasts its own intriguing spot known as Ember on the Hill.
- Ember on the Hill:
- Located in historic Le Claire, Iowa, at the iconic Grasshopper’s house, Ember on the Hill is a uniquely curated gift store with a cozy feel.
- While it’s not a traditional gravity hill, the name suggests an otherworldly experience.
- Gravity Hills Explained:
- A gravity hill is a place where the layout of the surrounding land creates an optical illusion.
- Even though the slope appears to be uphill, it’s actually a slight downhill slope.
- These hills have inspired rumors of witchcraft and giant buried magnets, but the scientific explanation lies in visual perception and the surrounding landscape.
Ember on the Hill may not defy gravity like some famous gravity hills, its charm and mystery make it a must-visit spot in Le Claire!
7. The Hidden World War II Submarine
During World War II, the Quad Cities was a hotspot for submarine manufacturing. An unfinished submarine, known as the USS Wahoo, was secretly constructed here but never completed. The remnants of this project are hidden away, known only to a few historians and military buffs. I could find nothing substantial to tell ya.
8. The Davenport Skybridge’s Secret Light Show
The Davenport Skybridge isn’t just for stunning views. At night, it hosts a hidden light show that changes colors in sync with music. While many enjoy the bridge for its daytime scenery, few realize the full extent of its nocturnal beauty and technological wonder.
9. Lost Island in the Mississippi
Sylvan Island in Moline is a hidden gem with a mysterious past. Once an industrial hub, it now offers serene walking trails and nature views. However, few know that it’s slowly sinking into the Mississippi River, making it a disappearing piece of Quad Cities history.
10. The Underground River of Rock Island
Beneath Rock Island runs a little-known underground river. This subterranean stream was essential for early settlers, providing a reliable water source. Today, it’s a forgotten part of the city’s infrastructure, hidden beneath the bustling streets and buildings. I also could not find out anything more about this underground river.
The Quad Cities are brimming with hidden stories and lesser-known facts that paint a vivid picture of the region’s unique character. From ghostly legends to geological oddities, each of these intriguing aspects adds depth to the area’s already rich history. Next time you explore the Quad Cities, keep an eye out for these hidden gems and uncover even more fascinating tales!
Additional Resources
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