Rock Island, Illinois: Black Hawk: Big Metal Sign (In Transition)

Black Hawk was not a chief, he was a warrior. The Sac and Fox had great respect for Black Hawk as did the U.S. Government, but he was never a chief.

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.

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.

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.