Big Rock

It was, and is, known as the Big Rock.

An old landmark for Native Americans and for early European settlers who first made their home on the south banks from this iconic point in 1835.

Rock County owes its name to the rock and the cave created above the water line.

Even in my more limber days I wouldn't risk the traverse from jutting rock over to the cave's entrance.

I remember walking inside one time before, so I believe there used to be some limestone around the front.  When I walked in there was trash and traces of small campfires inside.  It wasn't pretty, even though getting an unofficial peak at history was pretty cool.

My visit included the historical marker on top of the rock and a short walk down the steps toward the water.  It could be used by fishermen or some people looking for a place to be alone with the Rock River.

Janesville has a few historic sites.  The Tallman House may be the best known.  It served as host for a visiting Abraham Lincoln well before he became President.  The first Wisconsin State Fair was held there.

Parker Pen was born in Janesville and created many jobs before the company was bought out and moved on.

Carrie Jacobs Bond, a singer, songwriter, and composer from the 1890s to 1940s was born in Janesville.  Her most famous work, "I Love You, Truly."

Not long after the first European settler's cabin was built on the shores of the river, Mr. Henry Janes arrived in the area.

You guessed it, he turned out to be a big deal in the community and the namesake for Rock County's seat of government.

But the Rock is the identity of Janesville and Rock County.  A sturdy and enduring presence - much like the people who were here first and those who settled in after them.

Janesville and Rock County sent many men to serve in World War II.  Quite a few of them were in a brigade taken prisoner by the Japanese and part of the infamous Bataan death march.  Talk about a trial of pain and endurance.

Farming, industry, and the daily trials of life require steadfast dedication.

Most recently, Janesville lost thousands of good paying jobs when General Motors closed its factory (located upstream on the far shore in the second photo).  Some stayed put to carry on while others followed the job to provide for their families.

The rock is a landmark because of its history, but  the history and tradition of the Big Rock continues to leave ripples across the population here today.