The Colonel Plug Historic Site, nestled in Mound City, Illinois, was a notorious hotspot for river piracy during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Located near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, this site served as an ideal base for illicit activities such as theft and smuggling, all under the watchful eye of Colonel Plug.
Just a stones throw away from Colonel Plug Historic Site lies another fascinating historical gem - Cahokia Mounds. This UNESCO World Heritage Site spans 5 square miles on the Mississippi River floodplain opposite St. Louis and is an archaeological treasure that offers a glimpse into the lives of a Pre-Columbian civilization that once thrived in this region around 1100 AD. Boasting at least 120 earthen mounds, Cahokia Mounds stands as the largest Pre-Columbian Site north of Mexico, making it an essential stop for history buffs visiting the area.
Another significant historic site in Illinois is the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, located in Springfield. This four-block area houses the home where Abraham Lincoln lived before becoming the 16th President of the United States. Visiting this site offers a unique window into the life and times of one of Americas most admired leaders.
Across Illinois, you will find numerous historical sites and attractions that span various eras, from river piracy to Pre-Columbian settlements. The Colonel Plug Historic Site is just one fascinating example of the rich history this state has to offer. As we delve deeper into its past, let your imagination take you back to a time when river pirates roamed these waters, and their leader, Colonel Plug, held sway over Mound City.
As our tour continues, we will learn more about the unique attributes of Colonel Plug Historic Site and the stories it has to tell about the people who once called this place home. So fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a journey through time as we explore this captivating corner of American history together!