Introduction to Moline, Illinois
Moline is located along a peninsula created by the convergence of the Mississippi and Rock rivers in Rock Island County. Moline is part of the Quad Cities which also includes Rock Island and the Iowa cities, Bettendorf and Davenport. The city is home to the corporate headquarters of the notable John Deere and Company.
History
The Sac Fox Indians were the original inhabitants. The white settlers arrived in the early 1800's. Serious problems with the new settlers and the Indians led to Chief Black Hawk declaring war with the United States in 1832. After the defeat of the Indians in the Black Hawk War, the tribe was forced out of the region which provided the opportunity for a large number of settlers to reside in the Mississippi Valley.
The dam constructed by David B. Sears in 1841 brought a large number of mills and businesses to the area due to the water power produced by the dam. John Deere relocated his steel plow manufacturing business to the city. The name Moline translates into French as "city of mills." The town was a factor in the early days of the automobile industry with companies such as Moline Automobile, Velie Motors Corporation and Moline Wagon Company.
Attractions and Culture
The John Deere Commons is a popular tourist destination, which is comprised of a variety of venues. The John Deere Pavilion includes a notable agricultural museum. The John Deere Collector's Center showcases a large number of antique tractors and other types of farm equipment. The homes of the Deere family are included in the Commons. The Deere-Wiman House and the Butterworth Center are impressive mansions which offer private tours. There are numerous other attractions in the city including:
- River Music Experience
- Putnam Museum
- Bettendorf Family Museum of Arts and Science
- Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra
- Playcrafters Barn Theater
- Figge Art Museum
- John O'Donnell Stadium
- The Wharton Field House is home to a variety of sports events
- Quad City Music Guild
- The Quad City Steamwheelers play arena football games
- Quad City Flames play hockey
Activities
The Downtown Moline Center, situated along the historic riverfront is a primary location for restaurants, nightlife, entertainment and opportunities for shopping. The large i Wireless Center features well known performers. Moline is home to noteworthy events such as the Greek Fest, Viva Quad Cities, Quad City Marathon, Lighting of the Commons and Race for the Cure. The Plaza at Bass Street is popular for outdoor events and entertainment.
The Ben Butterworth Parkway offers bicycle riders and pedestrians scenic views of the Mississippi River. The water taxis provide transportation to the shores of Iowa and Illinois. Visitors enjoy sight seeing cruises along the Mississippi River. Several Riverboat casinos are located in nearby cities. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the quality golf courses including the TPC at Deer Run which is home to the PGA event, the John Deere Classic.
Higher Education
Moline is home to Black Hawk College and a campus of Western Illinois University.