Hooppole, Illinois: Rolle Bolle Rosary

The Rosary grounds were very well manicured and clean, free of overgrowth and weeds. You can park within a few feet of the cement sidewalk for handicapped access. It is flat ground for easy walking, with several large benches to sit and rest or reflect. There are statues and figures of devotional nature of course, as well as flowers and shade trees. It is a beautiful place.

My great-grandfather emigrated from Belgium in 1900 though Ellis Island. As a kid, I played with my grandfather's rolle bolle. I took my 82-year old mother there to see the rosary; it's worth the trip if your family knew what rolle bolle was. The church was staffed and there was a wedding being set-up while we were there.

The Belgian immigrants of this tiny town have created a giant rosary made from the balls and pucks used in the game Rolle Bolle. The sporting equipment was owned by now-deceased congregants. The rosary is laid out in a heart shape in a well-manicured garden setting on the grounds of the St Mary of the Fields Catholic Church. A gift shop offers tee-shirts and is open, unstaffed. Purchases are made on the honor system.