Flowing through Time:
Wittenberg, Tower Rock & the Mississippi River
We’re delighted to announce the opening of our new exhibit Flowing through Time: Wittenberg, Tower Rock & the Mississippi River. Come in and see displays depicting life on the Mississippi River through the years. Highlights include artifacts and pictures from Wittenberg, a photographic exhibition of Tower Rock over time, a Corp of Engineers’ display chronicling the ’93 Flood, and memorabilia from all manner of river boats.
Like so many river towns, the Mississippi River played a key role in the establishment, rise, and ultimate demise of the town of Wittenberg. From its founding in 1839 by the Saxon Lutheran immigrants to the coming of the railroad in 1904, the river was the lifeblood of the community. However, flooding was a consistent issue, with floods in 1927 and 1973 causing particular devastation. Disincorporated in 1983, all that now remains is a boat ramp, a few decrepit buildings and a couple monuments marking the significance of this area.
In the river just south of Wittenberg sits picturesque Tower Rock. First mentioned by French missionary Jacques Marquette in 1673, Tower Rock also appears in the journals of Lewis and Clark. In 1970 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
All of those who visited recently and got a sneak peak while the display was being set up have been impressed with the variety of artifacts, pictures and memorabilia. Don’t miss out; plan your visit soon! The museum is open daily 10 am – 4 pm. Admission is free. Before or after your visit, consider traveling 4 miles east to see the site where Wittenberg was for yourself and imagine it as the bustling town depicted by our displays. Then take a shore 1.5 mile trek south to see Tower Rock as it has sat in the Mississippi River for centuries. Of course, all of this is assuming current flooding doesn’t block your path!
Special thanks to the Mississippi River Museum in Grand Tower, IL for their donation of many of the river artifacts on display. Thanks also to Fred Eggers for providing the Tower Rock photographic exhibit and to the many volunteers who helped move, sort, clean, and display all of the donations.