Learn how the Sauk and Mesquakie Indians lived in the 1820s when their village, Saukenuk, was the largest town in Illinois. In the late 1820s, however, Anglo-Americans began developing settlements and gradually forced the tribes across the Mississippi River. While at the site you can visit the Hauberg Museum and see life-sized dioramas that help you understand how the Sauk and Mesquakie lived or explore the unique 100 acre "designated nature preserve" consisting of an oak-hickory forest with numerous woodland flowers and bird species, including the bald eagle.
The Hauberg Indian Museum, located in the lodge constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934, interprets the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki.
The collection of Dr. John Hauberg, a Rock Island philanthropist, forms the basis of the museum's collection, which features full-size replicas of Sauk winter and summer houses. Dioramas with life-size figures depict activities of the Sauk and Meskwaki people typical of the period 1750 to 1830. Many artifacts, including authentic trade goods, jewelry and domestic items are displayed.
Museum Hours
March - October
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (closed Noon - 1 p.m. for lunch)
November - February
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (closed Noon - 1 p.m. for lunch)
Official Great River Road Interpretive Center
The Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the course of the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The scenic route passes through 10 states and hundreds of river towns. Learn more >
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