You never really know what you’ll find around the small towns in Illinois. Cave-in-Rock, Illinois, has an absolutely fascinating history that’s unknown to most Prairie State residents. But how did Cave-in-Rock, Illinois get its name? Read on to learn more about the pirate cave on the Ohio River.

Way down in southern Illinois, a small town with a curious name and even more curious history lies right on the Ohio River.
Wikimedia Commons / Nyttend
Prior to the 1840s, the town was known as Rock and Cave. For an unknown reason (or, perhaps, a far too simple reason), it was renamed Cave-In-Rock on October 24, 1849. In 1901, it was incorporated as a village, and since then, it's become a tiny river town with a thriving small community of around 300 residents.
Did you know that way, way back, pirates roamed the Ohio River? It's true - and one of their favorite hangouts was right here in the aptly named Cave-in-Rock, Illinois.
Wikimedia Commons
The pirates on the Ohio River ran a network of thievery and pillaging. This secluded cave in the river bluff made for a good hideaway, where they could go undetected for days at a time. Soon, it became a spot where pirates stored their alcohol, too, and it was sort of a pirate bar. Local legend tells the tale of fights and deaths, making an otherwise interesting geologic formation a little bit spooky.

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Today, when the river is low enough, you can paddle on up to the cave and check it out yourself!
Wikimedia Commons / Daniel Schwen
As you may have guessed, it is a cave in the rock. It's a great spot for a picnic lunch... just be sure not to leave any doubloons unattended!
Flickr / Don Barrett
If you would like to visit Cave-in-Rock without having to paddle the river, you can drive up and cross the river on the small ferry that's still in operation.
Flickr / Don Barrett
The ferry connects Route 1 to Kentucky Route 91. It's one of only four ferries that connect Illinois and the Bluegrass State!

So, now you know the answer to the question, “How did Cave-in-Rock Illinois get its name?” Did you know the story behind the Cave-in-Rock, IL name origin before? Let us know!

Some of the strangest bits of history are true here in Illinois, If you’re curious about more, read about some strange pieces of  Chicago history and get to know the Land of Lincoln a little better.

Want to show off your Land of Lincoln spirit? Take a look at the Illinois apparel from our friends at Wear Your Roots!

If you want to explore one of the best small towns in Illinois, check out this video on Galena by OnlyInYourState:

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More to Explore

Exploring Illinois

Sara Dager | March 10, 2023

What are some of the best small towns in Illinois?

If you need more small-town charm, the small towns in Illinois are the perfect spot to get it, here are some of the best ones for a getaway or maybe even to move to:

  • Galena is many people's favorite town in the Midwest! With great dining, multiple wineries, and the chance for a hot air balloon ride, who wouldn't love it?
  • Fulton has a rich Dutch heritage. The town features a massive windmill, a "Dutch Days" festival, and some awesome shopping.
  • Greenville is one of the oldest towns in Illinois. It's absolutely charming with a ton of old buildings and they host some great festivals throughout the years.

 

Are there any road trips through Illinois that I should take? 

Load up the car, pack some good snacks, and get on the highway for these road trips through Illinois that will really help you feel like you've discovered the whole state:

  • The natural wonders in Illinois road trip is perfect for a three-day weekend with about 13 and a half hours of driving and ten breathtaking spots.
  • The best restaurants in Illinois road trip is a three-day journey that covers all three meals for each day at some of best chow spots in the state.
  • The haunted places in Illinois road trip is sure to scare the pants off of you with 9 spooky stops over about 9 hours of driving.

 

Which are the most beautiful place in Illinois that I need to visit?

There are so many beautiful places in Illinois just waiting to be discovered. You absolutely have to check out :

  • Starved Rock State Park is very well known, but so sizeable you will likely get some time to yourself while exploring. You will feel sheltered by massive trees here and there are waterfalls to discover!
  • Cache River State Natural Area feels unreal! The gigantic cypress trees growing out of bright green swamp water are truly a sight to behold.
  • Mississippi Palisades State Park offers sweeping river views, opportunities for rock climbing, and breathtaking greenery.

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Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919, USA