The City of Rock Island is located in the western most part of Illinois and is positioned between the banks of the mighty Mississippi River and the Rock River. We are a community rich in cultural diversity and steeped in history.

Originally named Stephenson in 1835, the small frontier rivertown was the first city in the Illinois / Iowa Quad Cities to be settled.  As the town flourished, the name was changed to Rock Island in 1841 and has grown into a city that is known for its historic neighborhoods with many homes dating back to those early days.

Rock Island has a Council/Manager form of local government, which is unique to the Quad City area.  We are a very progressive and forward thinking group with a focus on new business and new ideas, while still preserving our small businesses and hometown atmosphere.

We pride ourselves on preserving the past, while looking toward the future. Our public and private school systems, along with Augustana, a four year liberal arts college, are outstanding examples of our educational systems and make us a great place to settle down and raise a family.

Rock Island is home to many wonderful attractions such as the Quad City Botanical Center, the Hauberg Estate, Sunset Marina and the Whitewater Junction Aquatic Center.  Our Arts and Entertainment District downtown is a center of activity for the entire Quad City area. Rock Island is a great place to live, work, and play. We have all of the amenities of a large city with the convenience of a small community.

I encourage you to visit Rock Island. I know you will like the area so much; you just may want to stay.



 
Mayor Mike Thoms
City of Rock Island