The Charming Small Town In Illinois That Was Named After A Pirate Cave

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.

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.

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.

Today, when the river is low enough, you can paddle on up to the cave and check it out yourself!

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!

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.

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:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3xVHQb_hjA&feature=youtu.be