My mother photographed at Starved Rock Park, Illinois in 1939.
see link for information on St.Peter sandstone


Sounds like a horrific history as I read the explanation of the naming of this huge park in Illinois. “
Here’s the story “Starved Rock State Park derives its names from a Native American legend of injustice and retribution. In the 1760s, Pontiac (Chief of the Ottawa tribe) was slain by an Illiniwek while attending a tribal council in southern Illinois. According to the legend, during one of the battles that subsequently occurred to avenge his killing, a band of Illiniwek, under attack by a band of Potawatomi (allies of the Ottawa) sought refuge atop a 125-foot sandstone butte. The Ottawa and Potawatomi surrounded the bluff and held their ground until the hapless Illiniwek died of starvation—giving rise to its name Starved Rock.”
Thirteen miles of hiking trails.
“Starved Rock State Park is a wilderness area on the Illinois River containing steep sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater. A few canyons: St. Louis, French and Wildcat canyons have waterfalls. Wooded trails lead to Lover’s Leap Overlook, with views of the river and the dam. Park wildlife includes white-tailed deer, bald eagles and migratory birds, and reptiles. You can spend all day hiking and have lunch or dinner at the lodge.” Trip Advisor
We’ve been to Starved Rock state park. It is beautiful and I hope to go back for a longer period of time. I love the image of your mom!
That’s so cool you’ve been there.
Having been to Starved Rock when younger, I had never heard the story behind it. Very interesting!
Thanks for sharing!
Glad that your Mum wasn’t starving. It’s a nicely nostalgic image, Ruth.
Thank you, Jo.
Photographic talent must run in the family assuming it might have been your dad taking this one. Dc
I wondered about the name. What a tragic story. But how wonderful that you have that image of your mom.
Never heard of Starved Rock State Park before.
Found the article very interesting. Great photo shot of your mom. You have so many great treasures of your family. Thanks for sharing.
The story of Starved Rock is dark, but the image of your mom is amazing.