Live, Shop and Relax in Rockton, IL

The small town of Rockton is nestled along the Rock and Pecatonica Rivers. It has a rich history involving the Indian Princess Hononegah who married Stephen Andrew Mack, Jr. a fur trader. They lived in Macktown formerly called "Pekatonic" meaning "crooked river" or "muddy stream". Macktown was later renamed Rockton by William Talcott on May 30, 1844.

The high school was named Hononegah after the princess and Stephen Mack Middle School after Stephen Mack. A few celebrities have passed through Hononegah's doors such as ice skating Olympic Gold Medalist Scott Hamilton and INDY race car driver Danica Patrick.

The land my own house is built on along with many others used to be part of the famous Wagon Wheel resort that covered over 300 acres. It was a hot tourist spot from 1940 though the 1970's for celebrities like Bob Hope and Shirley Temple. According to the Rockford Register Star, “It boasted attractions such as an air strip, golf course, restaurant, church, dinner theater and two ice skating rinks, where Olympic figure skating bronze medalist Janet Lynn trained.” Scott Hamilton trained at the Wagon Wheel as well along with Sandy Lenz, Jim Milnes and many others.

One of my favorite places to frequent in town is the Talcott Free Library. The original building was built in 1854 and was used as a feed and grain store. I've always felt at home when I've visited this library.

The staff is friendly and helpful going above and beyond when it comes to the children's programs. I've taken my grandson to the story times offered here since he was two and he often doesn't want to leave when it’s time to go because he's having so much fun.

Along with hundreds of books for the children they provide puzzles, movies, music, and theme back packs to check-out. Computers are available too with educational programs for the children.

I think of it as my home away from home. It’s a nice of a place to visit and hang out especially on a cold or rainy day.

This shop is full of upscale resale clothing, antiques and beautiful furniture. I love to shop here because there are so many unique items to see and deals to be found. It’s the kind of store you'll want to frequent often as inventory is always changing with the seasons and trends.

I scooped up a pair of Spider Man shoes that light-up here last spring that my grandson is crazy about for only four dollars. I also found a cute tulle skirt and knit hat for my niece’s birthday here that was a big hit.

If you’re looking for name brand children's clothing at reasonable prices you can't go wrong shopping here. Do you have a wedding to attend and your children have nothing to wear? Perfectly Posh has sharp suits for boys and beautiful dresses and accessories for girls.

Stop in during one of the fabulous Fridays and hit the dollar racks and go home with some great deals. They also sell baby gifts, knit baby hats, hair bows, jewelry and so much more.

The "Rockton Lighted Christmas Parade" is part of a great weekend of holiday fun called the "Christmas Walk." The parade attracts people from all over because of its colorfully lit floats. Trees and old fashioned street lights along Main Street are decorated along with store fronts all glowing against the night sky welcoming in the holiday season.

To get into the holiday mood and get a jump start on your holiday shopping visit during Christmas Walk Weekend normally held the first weekend in December. Its a great time to go shopping for special gifts and antiques at unique shops like, Don's Coins And Collectibles, Perfectly Posh, Main Street Antiques, Cyndys Country Cottage, The Keeping Room, the Gem Shop, and Eccentricities to name just a few. Hot chocolate, cider and treats are offered along with drawings for special door prizes in many of the shops.

Christmas Walk weekend is full of fun things to do and see for everyone. Area churches and the local American Legion on Main Street often host wonderful pancake breakfasts. I can attest to eating more than my share of pancakes and holiday goodies over this winter weekend.

Santa takes time out of his busy schedule to drop by with his elves to have his picture taken with children and the young at heart. The sound of sleigh bells and horse hooves clicking along Main Street can be heard as horse drawn carriages and wagons give visitors a tour of the town. Holiday plays, musical events, art and craft sales are also held throughout the area at this special time too.

Winter is officially over and warm weather is coming when the Dairy Haus opens it's doors. Its a sign of better days ahead after the long winter months. They offer a yummy variety of ice cream flavors and serve it up with a smile. A few places to sit are available inside, but more seating can be found on the red picnic tables next to the building under several shade trees.

After taking a dip in the pool around the corner I'd often stop by with a few dripping kids for a cone. When its hot outside the Dairy Haus is keeps Rockton cool with its tasty ice cream. Its a great place to hang out during the dog days of summer.

Rockton has been my home for a number of years now and I can't imagine living anywhere else. I just love everything it has to offer. There always seems to be something interesting going on, but the easy pace of a small town remains intact.

If you’re in the area be sure to stop by the Dairy Haus for a cone and check out the Talcott Library that happens to be right next door. Maybe you'll catch one of the book sales they hold several times a year where you can leave with grocery bag full of books for a few dollars.

To get into the holiday spirit and get a jump on your shopping visit Rockton during Christmas Walk Weekend normally held the first weekend in December. This is a great town to go shopping for special gifts and antiques too with great shops like the Gem Shop, Don's Coins And Collectibles, Perfectly Posh, Main Street Antiques, Cyndys Country Cottage, The Keeping Room and Eccentricities to name just a few.

If you want to grab a bite to eat try Ray's Family Restaurant where they make the best feta cheese omelets around. The Rockton Inn, Fibs, and the Elderberry Tea Room all have great meals to offer weary and hungry travelers. No matter what season you decide to visit this great town Rockton as something fun to do or see.