Rock Island, Illinois: Chief Black Hawk: Big Metal Sign

Metal two-sided Blackhawk Indian cutout towers above a nearly empty shopping center.

Black Hawk Indian Statue

This metal statue of Chief Black Hawk has never been painted. It is the original porcelain coating that was on the statue since installation. Not bad for a 50 year old finish.

The Watchtower Plaza is now full with the exception of 1 suite. There is a Dollar General, Comfort Furniture, GB Stores, Jaded Gypsie Tattoo, Midwest Tool & Equipment, Boost Mobile, Express Contracting Retail, Platinum Stylze, and the Apostalic Sanctuary. Please visit our retailers when you come to see the statue of Chief Black Hawk.

[Watchtower Plaza Management, 11/09/2011]

Black Hawk Indian Statue

2-sided metal Chief Black Hawk sits high on a pedestal at the old Watchtower strip mall. The mall is mostly closed (except for a Dollar General and tattoo shop). Used to be a thriving hub of activity back in the 1960s.

Ironically, it is located near Saukenuk, the capital of the Sauk Nation in the 1700s, which is now Black Hawk State Park. The state park is worth a stop. Has a small Indian museum and hiking trails. Also impressive buildings built during the Depression by the CCC.

[cory lenger, 08/04/2010]

Black Hawk Indian Metal Sign

Giant Black Hawk Indian stands in front of a nearly abandoned shopping center. It appears that the sign was used to entice folks to come to the shopping center.

[Diane Urban, 07/08/2010]