The Village of Carbon Cliff, Illinois

The Chicago and Rock Island railroad (later the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific) reached Carbon Cliff in 1854. By the mid-19th century, Carbon Cliff had become a coal mining center and was named for the many coal mines that dotted the bluff west of town. The Carbon Cliff mines were the earliest worked on the west side of the Rock River. Stoehr & Schadt Coal Co and others mined extensively for many years, but by the beginning of the 20th century, the limited supply of coal was nearly exhausted and mining there was discontinued.

The Carbon Cliff bluffs were also known as an excellent source of clay. The Argillo Works was formed in 1865 to produce fire brick and farm-drain tile. Argillo's products were sold throughout the country and were one of the leading industries of Rock Island County. In the 1930s, a fire destroyed the plant's offices and buildings, and the firm went out of business.

Carbon Cliff is home to Double Dunn Ranch, which offers horseback riding lessons, kids camps, and birthday parties. Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle has what you need for a day of fishing.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE

The city park along the riverfront provides great access to the Rock River for people wanting to get out on the river with their kayaks and canoes. Head west on the river and enjoy a 2 to 3-hour paddle through beautiful areas that lead all the way to Black Hawk State Historic Site in Rock Island, Illinois.